Australian Terrier

The Australian Terrier is a spirited and affectionate breed known for its small yet sturdy build and bold demeanor. Originating from Australia in the early 19th century, these terriers were initially bred to hunt and exterminate vermin, showcasing their fearless and determined nature. They are intelligent and alert and make excellent watchdogs, always ready to protect their family and territory. With their distinctive harsh, wiry coat and expressive dark brown eyes, Akitas have become beloved companions worldwide.

written by

Harper Jefcoat

Source: Pixabay

Breed Group

Purebred

Height

9 to 11 inches

Weight

14 to 16 pounds

Life Span

12 to 15 years

Average Cost

$800 to $1500

Color

Blue and Tan, Sandy, or Red

AKC Group

Terrier Group

All About Breed

Discover the characteristics of an Australian Terrier to see if it will make the right addition to your family:

Australian Terrier History/Origin

The story of the Australian Terrier begins way back in the 19th century when some rough-coated terriers made their way from Britain to Australia. They share their ancestry with Cairn Terrier, Dandie Dinmont Terriers, Yorkshire Terrier, and Irish Terriers.

These furry companions settled into the Australian landscape and started to adapt to their new surroundings.

Originally, they were simply called Rough Coated Terriers. As time went on and their distinct characteristics emerged, they were officially recognized as the Australian Terrier in 1892. Their first big moment came when they strutted their stuff in a show in Melbourne in 1906, winning hearts with their spunky personalities.

But their fame didn’t stop there. They soon gained recognition beyond Australia’s borders. The UK’s Kennel Club gave them the nod in 1933, and the American Kennel Club followed suit in 1960 under Terrier Group, with the United Kennel Club jumping on board in 1970.

Australian Terrier in 1962 – Source: Australian Terrier Club Of America

Now, Australian Terriers are loved and respected by dog enthusiasts all around the globe, proving that their appeal knows no bounds.

Australian Terrier Personality

Australian Terriers are one of the dog breeds known for their spirited and affectionate nature. Despite their small size, they possess a bold and confident demeanor.

They are intelligent, and alert, and make excellent watchdogs, always ready to protect their family and territory. These clever canines are quick learners, eager to please their owners with new tricks and commands.

They form strong bonds with their families and thrive on companionship and attention, making them happiest when by your side.

Australian Terrier Temperament

These working terriers have a confident and fearless temperament. Their breed standard describes them as alert and spirited animals with the “natural aggressiveness of a ratter”.

They approach every new adventure with unwavering curiosity and determination, displaying their bold nature despite their petite stature.

Their alertness keeps them always on the lookout for any signs of trouble. These traits, combined with their affectionate nature, make Australian Terriers wonderful companions for families seeking a lively and loving pet.

Australian Terrier Physical Appearance

Aussie Terriers have a confident and athletic presence. They are considered small dogs, but they have slightly longer torsos than their height. They’re built to handle rough terrain effortlessly.

Their erect ears give them an alert and attentive expression. Their dark brown eyes are equally expressive, reflecting their intelligence. Additionally, they typically have docked tails, giving them an overall balanced and compact appearance.

Size

Australian Terriers are characterized by their small yet sturdy build, standing around 9 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder. They typically weigh between 14 to 16 pounds, giving them a compact and robust appearance.

Coat Color

These purebred dogs come in a variety of colors, including blue and tan or solid red. These colors often come in a mix of shades, adding to their unique and charming appearance.

They have a double coat, consisting of a harsh outer layer and a soft undercoat. This combination provides them with protection from various weather conditions, making them well-suited for outdoor activities.

Tan Australian Terrier – Source: kuonokansalaiset
Red Australian Terrier – Source: lalunai
Sandy Australian Terrier – Source: AKC.org

Australian Terrier Gender Differences

Male Aussie Terriers tend to be slightly taller or weigh more than females. However, both genders exhibit similar characteristics in terms of temperament and behavior.

Australian Terrier Feed/Nutrition

When it comes to feeding your Australian Terrier, it’s important to prioritize a balanced diet tailored to their age, size, and activity level.

Go for high-quality dog food that is formulated to meet the nutritional requirements of small breeds like the Australian Terrier.

A diet rich in lean proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals is essential for keeping your Australian Terrier in top condition. Protein sources like chicken, turkey, shrimp and fish can help support their muscle development and overall health.

While it may be tempting to spoil your furry friend with treats, it’s crucial to monitor their food intake to prevent obesity. Australian Terriers have a tendency to gain weight if overfed, which can lead to various health issues. Be mindful of portion sizes and limit the number of treats you offer to maintain a healthy weight.

Additionally, always ensure your dog has access to fresh, clean water at all times to stay hydrated and support their overall well-being.

Australian Terrier Health

While generally healthy, this breed may be prone to certain health problems. According to the Australian Terrier Club, these are the health conditions that they are most prone to:

Diabetes: They are at risk of developing diabetes, a condition characterized by high blood sugar levels. Symptoms may include increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, and lethargy. Proper management through insulin therapy and dietary changes is essential to maintain their health.
Luxating Patella: Luxating patella, or dislocated kneecap, is a common issue in Australian Terriers. It can cause lameness and discomfort, requiring veterinary attention. Treatment options may include medication or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.
Cancer: Unfortunately, Australian Terriers are susceptible to various forms of canine cancer. Early detection through regular check-ups and screenings is crucial for prompt treatment and better prognosis. Treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, depending on the type and stage of cancer.
Ear Infections: Due to their drop ears and predisposition to allergies, Australian Terriers are prone to ear infections specially yeast infections. Symptoms include itching, redness, odor, and discharge. Regular ear cleaning and veterinary check-ups can help prevent and manage ear infections effectively.

Australian Terrier Care and Grooming

Australian Terriers have low grooming needs, thanks to its coarse, wiry coat that naturally repels dirt and mats.

Regular brushing and combing, typically once a week, help keep their coat smooth and reduce shedding. Every couple of months, it’s advisable to remove any dead hair from their coat to maintain its texture.

Bathing should be done about once a month to keep them clean, but excessive bathing can dull their coat’s appearance. Trimming around their eyes and ears as needed ensures they maintain a tidy appearance and avoid any obstructions.

Additionally, regular nail trimming and weekly ear checks help prevent discomfort and potential infections.

Fortunately, Aussie Terriers are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming and typically don’t have much of a smell, making the process easier for pet owners.

Additionally, leash training your dog will help ensure enjoyable and controlled walks, making outings more pleasant for both you and your pet.

Australian Terrier Rescue Groups

If you’re looking to bring home Australian Terrier puppies, check out breed-specific rescue organizations or shelters. These breed clubs often have these dogs in need of loving homes, providing a chance to give a deserving pet a loving family.

AustralianTerrierRescue.org

AustralianTerrier.RescueMe.org

Australian Terrier Price

The typical Australian Terrier price starts from $800. When looking for Australian terrier puppies for sale, make sure you get them from a reputable breeder. Ask to see health records to ensure you’re getting a healthy puppy.

MarketPlace.AKC.org

AustralianTerrier.org

Interesting Facts

The Australian Terrier’s tail was docked to prevent any possible spinal injury while hunting.
This breed has been 34th on Stanley Coren’s The Intelligence of Dogs, due to their above-average working and obedience intelligence.

The Intelligence of Dogs- Source: Wikipedia

Best For

The Australian Terrier excels as a companion pet and excels in various canine sports such as agility and obedience trials.

Top Names

Male Australian Terrier Names	Female Australian Terrier Names
Rocky	Sadie
Buster	Rosie
Duke	Luna
Milo	Chloe
Teddy	Penny

Pet Ratings

Adaptability

They are not the best dogs for first-timers but not the worst as well. They are known to be friendly and easy to train, which can make them a great pick for first-timers. The downside is that they require a lot of attention and grooming, which first-time pet owners may not have the time, training, or patience for.

Friendliness

There are different types of friendliness. Some dogs may be friendly to humans but not to other dogs. Other dogs may be friendly to both humans and other dogs. The breed is not the only factor that determines how friendly a dog will be. Dogs who have spent time with their siblings and mother until they are six to eight weeks old and have played with other dogs a lot during puppyhood are more likely to be friendly to other dogs.

Health and Grooming Needs

Some breeds of dogs such as this one, are more likely to have certain health problems. This doesn't mean that every dog of that breed will have those diseases, but they are more likely to. If you're adopting a puppy, it's a good idea to find out which genetic illnesses are common to the breed.

Trainability

Dogs are one of the most popular pets in the world, and it's not hard to see why. They provide us with companionship, love, and security. But when it comes to training, some dog breeds are definitely easier to work with than others. This breed is known for being particularly easy to train.

Exercise Needs

This breed requires a lot of exercises. These dogs were originally bred for working roles that required them to be constantly active, and as a result, they have high energy levels. If you're considering this breed, it's important to make sure that you're able to provide it with the exercise it needs. A daily walk or run is often not enough - these dogs need to be able to burn off their excess energy to stay happy and healthy.

Key Takeaways

Confident Personality: Australian Terriers are confident and spirited, showing little shyness and often displaying an independent streak.

Pack Leader Potential: In a multi-dog household, Australian Terriers may try to establish dominance and require firm but positive training to recognize the owner as the pack leader.

Active Lifestyle: They thrive with an active lifestyle, making them ideal companions for those who enjoy outdoor activities and exercise.

Alert Watchdogs: With a strong watchdog instinct, they will readily alert their owners to any unusual activity or intruders.

Prey Drive: Their Terrier instincts give them a strong prey drive, so careful introduction to small pets is necessary.

What is an Australian Terrier mix of?

Australian Terriers are believed to be a mix of various terrier breeds from Great Britain, including the Cairn Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier, and Dandie Dinmont Terrier.

What is the average Australian Terrier lifespan?

The average lifespan of an Australian Terrier is around 12 to 15 years, though with proper care and attention, they can live even longer.

What are the differences between Australian Terriers vs Silky Terriers?

While both breeds are terriers from Australia, they have some differences. Australian Terriers are slightly larger, have a harsher coat, and are more suited for hunting and outdoor activities. Silky Terriers, on the other hand, have a softer, silkier coat and are often considered more of a companion breed.

Are Australian Terriers good pets?

Yes, Australian Terriers make excellent pets. They are loyal, affectionate, and intelligent dogs that form strong bonds with their families. They are also adaptable to various living situations and enjoy being involved in their owner's activities.

Are Australian Terriers noisy?

Australian Terriers can be vocal dogs, especially when they are excited or alerting their owners to something. However, with proper training and socialization, their barking can be managed effectively.

Do Australian Terriers have health problems?

While generally healthy, Australian Terriers are prone to certain health issues like diabetes, luxating patella, canine cancer, and ear infections. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper care can help mitigate these risks.

Is an Australian Terrier a Yorkie?

No, an Australian Terrier is not a Yorkie. While both breeds are terriers, they are distinct breeds with their own characteristics and origins. Australian Terriers originated in Australia, while Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, originated in England. They have different appearances and temperaments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Harper Jefcoat

Harper Jefcoat is a dedicated pet enthusiast and expert author at ThePetWorld.org. With a deep-seated passion for animals, Harper brings a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to his writings. Specializing in canine behavior and wellness, he aims to help pet owners understand and care for their furry friends better.