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AUSTRALIAN TERRIER

Breed Group: Terrier

For full breed standards, visit UK Kennel Club or American Kennel Club

Average height: 25 - 28 cms (10 - 11 in)

Average Weight: 6 - 7 kgs (14 - 16 lbs)

Coat Length: Medium

Life Span: 12 - 15 years

Colors: Blue & Tan, Sandy, Red

HISTORY

The Australian Terrier is a breed born from the rugged landscapes of Australia, where practicality and toughness were essential traits for survival. Developed in the early 19th century, this small but spirited dog was bred to assist settlers by controlling vermin and small pests, as well as providing companionship and even protection. The breed traces its roots to several British terrier breeds, including the Cairn, Dandie Dinmont, and Yorkshire Terriers, which were brought to Australia by European settlers. Over time, the Australian Terrier was refined and adapted to the harsher Australian climate and conditions, resulting in a hardy, versatile little dog with a big personality.

 Despite its small stature, the Australian Terrier was known for its ability to work alongside farmers, guarding livestock and keeping rodent populations under control. They were also used to keep snakes at bay, a particularly important skill in the wild Australian outback. In addition to their working roles, these dogs quickly endeared themselves to their human companions, thanks to their loyalty, intelligence, and affectionate nature.

 By the late 19th century, the Australian Terrier began to gain recognition outside of its homeland, eventually being formally recognized as a breed in both Australia and the United Kingdom. It made its way to the United States in the mid-20th century, where it captured hearts with its spunky attitude and endearing qualities. Today, the Australian Terrier remains a favorite for its combination of work ethic, intelligence, and charm, a true testament to its rugged heritage.

L.E.G.S.

Using the L.E.G.S.® model, our breed descriptions offer insights into typical behavior based on Genetics, Learning, Environment, and Self. 

Knowing the sort of 'job' a breed was created for can offer valuable insights into the type of life dogs of that breed would most enjoy. But bear in mind, they are all individuals, treat the following as an indication of breed tendencies – not a prediction.

Shedding

minimal <> considerable

Grooming

minimal <> likely to need professional grooming

Barking

relatively quiet <> very vocal

Predatory behaviour around other pets/livestock

low<>high

Response to strangers

happy to greet everyone <> very wary

Affectionate with family

not at all<>very cuddly

Playful

serious<>very playful

Focus on handler (bond)

independent thinker<>very biddable

Excitable/Impulsive

very calm<>easily aroused

Motivated

laid back<>obsessive

Easy to care for

suitable for inexperienced<>challenging

Exercise needs

minimal<>hours daily

Off-lead exercise needs

happy on lead<>needs plenty of freedom

Enrichment needs

basic<>needs challenges

WHY YOU'LL FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR AUSTRALIAN TERRIER

  • Loyal Companion: The Australian Terrier is known for its deep loyalty to its family, providing love and affection with a fun, lively twist.

  •  Big Personality in a Small Package: Despite their small size, Australian Terriers pack a lot of personality and spunk, making every day more interesting with their playful antics.

  •  Alert and Brave: These dogs are always on the lookout, ready to alert you to any changes in their environment, and their courage often outweighs their size.

  •  Adaptable: Whether you live in a bustling city or a quiet country home, the Australian Terrier can fit in seamlessly with their adaptable nature.

  •  Smart and Eager to Learn: Intelligent and quick to pick up new tricks, this breed is perfect for those who enjoy training and teaching their dogs new things.

WHY THEY MAY BE HARD TO LIVE WITH

  • Strong Prey Drive: Their instinct to chase small animals can make them a challenge around cats or other small pets, as well as off-leash in unsecured areas.

  •  Independent Streak: Like many terriers, Australian Terriers can be strong-willed and may require patience when it comes to training.

  •  Vocal Tendencies: Their alertness often translates to frequent barking, which may be a challenge in environments where quiet is necessary.

  •  Need for Mental Stimulation: Without enough enrichment, these intelligent dogs may become bored and resort to undesirable behaviors, such as digging or excessive barking.

  •  Territorial: Australian Terriers can be protective of their homes and may display territorial behaviors, especially with other dogs.

YOUR AUSTRALIAN TERRIER PUPPY HIGHLIGHTS

Bringing an Australian Terrier puppy into your home is like adding a curious and confident little explorer to the family. These puppies are eager to learn and enjoy discovering the world around them. You’ll notice their alertness right away, as they often perk up at new sounds or movements. Early socialization is important, especially to help them develop good relationships with other pets and people. These puppies are quick learners, and with the right guidance, they will thrive in training classes.

 Australian Terrier puppies are known for their playful energy, but they also know how to settle down and cuddle with their owners at the end of a busy day. Be prepared to spend time teaching them appropriate behavior, as their natural terrier instincts might lead them to test boundaries. Introducing them to grooming from an early age will make the process easier, especially with their rough coat that benefits from regular brushing. Overall, raising an Australian Terrier puppy is a rewarding experience filled with lively play and lots of affection.

YOU MAY NEED PROFESSIONAL HELP WITH:

  • Barking Control: Their natural alertness can lead to excessive barking, which may require training or professional guidance to manage.

  •  Off-lead Training: Due to their strong prey drive, professional help may be needed to ensure reliable recall and prevent chasing of small animals.

  •  Socialization: Early socialization, especially with other dogs and pets, is important to prevent territorial or aggressive tendencies.

  •  Impulse Control: Australian Terriers may need guidance in controlling their excitement, particularly in situations involving small animals or fast movement.

  •  Managing Independence: While they bond closely with their families, their independent nature may require professional support to develop consistent training habits.

YOUR RELATIONSHIP SURVIVAL KEY

To build a lasting and fulfilling relationship with your Australian Terrier, patience and understanding are key. While this breed is highly affectionate and bonds closely with its family, it can also exhibit a streak of independence that requires guidance. Respect their terrier instincts, providing outlets for their natural energy and drive. Keep training sessions fun and engaging, as this intelligent breed thrives on mental stimulation and praise. Ensure they have opportunities to express their natural behaviors in positive ways, such as through play or structured activities like agility or scent work. Remember, an Australian Terrier will love to be involved in your life and daily activities, so create routines that allow for regular interaction and bonding time. By providing the right balance of training, affection, and enrichment, you’ll cultivate a strong and rewarding relationship with your little terrier friend.

UPBRINGING

Raising an Australian Terrier requires a mix of understanding their natural instincts and providing structured guidance. Start early with socialization, introducing your puppy to a variety of people, environments, and other animals to help them grow into a confident adult. Their strong prey drive means it’s important to teach them proper behavior around smaller pets and to introduce recall training from a young age to prevent them from chasing. Positive reinforcement training will be your best friend, as Australian Terriers respond well to rewards and praise. Be patient and consistent with commands. Engage their minds with puzzle toys, scent games, and interactive play to prevent boredom, and establish clear boundaries to help them understand the rules of the house. With the right approach, an Australian Terrier will grow into a loyal, well-behaved companion who is eager to participate in family life.

LIFESTYLE

An Australian Terrier can adapt to various living environments, making them suitable for both city apartments and country homes. They do best in households where they can be part of the daily routine and enjoy regular interaction with their family. While their small size makes them suitable for apartment living, they still need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Daily walks, combined with playtime and training sessions, will keep your Australian Terrier mentally and physically satisfied. They enjoy exploring their surroundings and will thrive in environments where they can indulge their curiosity. A fenced yard is ideal for letting them safely roam and burn off energy, but they can also adapt to leash walks in urban areas as long as they get enough exercise.

INTERESTS & HOBBIES

The Australian Terrier's heritage as a working dog gives them a natural inclination toward activities that engage both their minds and bodies. They excel in agility, obedience, and earthdog trials, where they can put their terrier instincts to good use. These activities allow them to channel their high energy and prey drive in positive ways. They also enjoy interactive toys, puzzle games, and scent work, which provide the mental stimulation they crave. Even simple games of fetch or tug-of-war can be a great way to bond with your Australian Terrier and satisfy their playful nature.

EDUCATION

When training an Australian Terrier, it’s important to focus on activities that channel their natural instincts in constructive ways. Incorporate games that involve problem-solving or scent tracking, which tap into their terrier background. Positive reinforcement and consistency are crucial, as these dogs respond best to rewards and praise. Avoid harsh or overly rigid training methods, as their independent nature may make them resistant to such approaches. Instead, keep sessions short, fun, and engaging, helping to build a strong bond between you and your dog while reinforcing good behavior.