| Breed
Group:
Terrier |
| Weight:
12-14 lbs |
| Height:
10-11 inches |
| Color(s):
blue and tan, solid sandy, and solid red |
| Coat:
The
Australian Terrier is a double coat breed. The outer coat is straight,
harsh, and rough in texture. The under coat is soft, dense, and short.
This breeds weatherproof coat is longer on the body than the hair on
the tail, rear legs, and feet. There is a protective ruff of softer
hair at the neck, which blends into an apron. The forelegs have light
feathering and there is a topknot of soft and fine hair, which covers
only the top of the head. The color of the coat comes in dark blue,
silvery blue with tan markings on the legs and head, solid red, and
sandy. This breed sheds little to no hair. |
| Overview:
Classified
as one of the smallest working terriers, this breed was developed in
Australia. They were bred for a variety of uses such as watchdog,
shepherd, vermin hunter, and companion. Australian Terriers hold the
unique distinction of being the first native-bred Australian dog to be
shown and the first to be recognized in other countries. |
| Character:
The
Australian Terrier is low-set, sturdy, and small in stature. However,
their small size belies their exhibition of a strong and true terrier
nature. This breed is proud, hardy, alert and confident. They are bold,
fearless, and charming. They are an excellent choice for a variety of
lifestyles and make lovely companions. |
| Temperament:
This
breed displays the bravery and courage of much larger dogs. The
Australian Terrier is extremely affectionate with their family, loyal,
and highly intelligent. They are exceedingly amusing, spirited, and
curious. This breed does best in a home with older considerate
children. They get along with other dogs and household pets, but do
have a propensity for chasing the family cat as well as small outdoor
animals such as squirrel and rabbit. They thrive on human interaction
and do not do well if left alone for extended periods of time. The
Australian Terrier has acute hearing as well as keen eyesight and makes
an excellent watchdog. They are wary of strangers but are not
aggressive unless provoked |
| Care:
This
breed requires brushing several times a week. They also need the coat
plucked every three months Bathing should only be done when absolutely
necessary using a mild shampoo to preserve the integrity of the coat.
Trimming around the eyes and ears should be done as needed. The
Australian Terrier is a relatively healthy breed. However, they may be
prone to patella luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, diabetes,
epilepsy, skin allergies, and thyroid disorders. |
| Training:
The
Australian Terrier is quick to learn but is easily bored by repetition.
Early socialization and obedience training is a must. They do not
respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. This breed does best when
trained with consistency, firmness, fairness, praise, and motivation.
They are very adept in the areas of agility, tracking, earthdog, and
obedience. |
| Activity:
This
breed requires exercise on a regular basis to keep them physically and
mentally fit. If they become bored they will become destructive. The
Australian Terrier enjoys securely leashed walks, family play sessions,
and a romp in a safe area. They do well in an apartment or condominium
dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise and stimulation. |
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