{"id":42245,"date":"2014-11-03T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2014-11-02T22:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/?p=42245"},"modified":"2025-08-29T20:36:08","modified_gmt":"2025-08-29T17:36:08","slug":"australian-terrier","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/breed-australian-terrier","title":{"rendered":"Australian Terrier"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The Australian Terrier<\/strong> is a small but plucky dog with a big heart and a seemingly endless supply of energy. This lively and clever companion makes a wonderful family friend, bringing joy and fun into any home. These dogs are incredibly loyal and friendly towards their owners, and it’s impossible to be bored with one around as they’ll always find a way to make you laugh. With their playful and active nature, they’re the ideal match for anyone with an energetic lifestyle. Don’t be fooled by their cute looks, though\u2014behind that charming exterior is a true terrier: fearless and occasionally feisty with other animals, so you’ll need to pay close attention on walks. For more on this remarkable breed, you can find further details over on Tvaryny<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Australian Terriers absolutely love to play, dig (it’s in their blood!), and be the centre of attention. They get on well with children, especially older ones, but they do demand respect. For that reason, it’s best to introduce one into a family where the children are old enough to understand how to behave around a dog. This little hunter, originally bred for farm work, still retains its working instincts, making them an excellent watchdog that will always alert you to strangers with a sharp bark.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Australian Terrier: Key Breed Information<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"An<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Breed Name<\/strong><\/td>Australian Terrier<\/td><\/tr>
Country of Origin<\/strong><\/td>Australia<\/td><\/tr>
Date of Origin<\/strong><\/td>19th century<\/td><\/tr>
FCI Recognition<\/strong><\/td>Group 3 (Terriers), Section 2 (Small Terriers). Standard No. 8.<\/td><\/tr>
Lifespan<\/strong><\/td>12-15 years<\/td><\/tr>
Height at the Withers<\/strong><\/td>23-28 cm<\/td><\/tr>
Weight<\/strong><\/td>6-8 kg<\/td><\/tr>
Temperament<\/strong><\/td>Energetic, bold, clever, loyal, alert, stubborn<\/td><\/tr>
Primary Purpose<\/strong><\/td>Companion, hunter of small rodents and snakes<\/td><\/tr>
Coat Care<\/strong><\/td>Moderate, requires regular brushing<\/td><\/tr>
Shedding<\/strong><\/td>Minimal<\/td><\/tr>
Activity Level<\/strong><\/td>High<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The History of the Australian Terrier<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Australian Terrier’s history is closely tied to the colonisation of the Australian continent by European settlers in the 19th century. The colonists needed a small but resilient and fearless dog capable of protecting farms and mining settlements from rats, mice, and, crucially in the Australian landscape, venomous snakes. Various terrier breeds imported from Great Britain became the foundation for the new breed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s believed that the ancestors of breeds such as the Cairn Terrier<\/a>, Skye Terrier, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, and even the Irish and Yorkshire Terriers<\/a> were involved in the selective breeding process. From each, the Australian Terrier inherited its best traits: courage, a robust build, a harsh coat to protect against the elements and bites, and a tireless hunting instinct. The Yorkshire Terrier likely had a particular influence, passing on the characteristic blue and tan colouring. However, unlike its more decorative relative, the Australian Terrier retained its working qualities and a sturdier frame.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The first records of dogs similar to modern Australian Terriers date back to the 1820s. Initially, they were known as ‘Rough Coated Terriers’. The breed quickly gained popularity in Australia thanks to its versatility and low-maintenance nature. In 1887, the first breed club was founded in Melbourne, and by 1899, its official standard was approved. The Australian Terrier became the first breed to be officially recognised in Australia. International recognition came later, with the British Kennel Club recognising the breed in 1933 and the American Kennel Club in 1960. Today, the Australian Terrier isn’t a particularly common breed outside of its homeland, but it is highly valued for its wonderful character and devotion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Breed Standard and Appearance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The Australian Terrier is a robust, low-set dog with a slightly elongated body, appearing much stronger than its small size would suggest. Its appearance clearly indicates its endurance and readiness for work. The main feature is its harsh, straight coat, which forms a distinctive ‘ruff’ around the neck and an ‘apron’ on the chest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Body Part<\/th>Description according to FCI Standard<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
General Appearance<\/strong><\/td>A sturdy, low-set, rather long-bodied dog with a characteristic terrier expression.<\/td><\/tr>
Head<\/strong><\/td>Skull is long, flat, and moderately wide. The stop is defined but not abrupt. The muzzle is strong and powerful, equal in length to the skull.<\/td><\/tr>
Nose<\/strong><\/td>Nose is black and of small size.<\/td><\/tr>
Eyes<\/strong><\/td>Small, oval-shaped, and dark brown. Set wide apart. The expression is sharp and intelligent.<\/td><\/tr>
Ears<\/strong><\/td>Small, erect, pointed, and free from long hair. Set high on the skull and mobile.<\/td><\/tr>
Bite<\/strong><\/td>Scissor bite. Jaws are strong.<\/td><\/tr>
Neck<\/strong><\/td>Strong, of good length, slightly arched, and smoothly blends into the shoulders.<\/td><\/tr>
Body<\/strong><\/td>Straight back with a level topline. The ribcage is moderately deep and wide. The loin is strong.<\/td><\/tr>
Tail<\/strong><\/td>Traditionally docked in the past. In countries where this is forbidden, it remains a natural length. It’s set high and carried vertically.<\/td><\/tr>
Limbs<\/strong><\/td>Forelegs are straight and parallel with good bone. Hindquarters have well-developed muscles and moderate angulation. Feet are small and cat-like with strong black nails.<\/td><\/tr>
Coat<\/strong><\/td>Double coat: a harsh, straight, and dense outer coat of about 6 cm in length, and a short, soft undercoat. Hair is short on the muzzle, lower parts of the legs, and feet. Has a distinctive topknot on the head.<\/td><\/tr>
Colour<\/strong><\/td>Blue and Tan:<\/strong> steel blue or dark grey-blue with rich tan markings on the muzzle, ears, lower body, and legs. Solid Sandy or Red:<\/strong> any shade from sandy to red. White patches on the chest or feet are considered a fault.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Character and Temperament<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Australian Terrier’s character is a vibrant mix of courage, intelligence, stubbornness, and boundless devotion. They are truly a “big dog in a little body.”<\/strong> They are incredibly sociable and love being the centre of their family’s attention. They’re ready to get involved in all household activities, whether it’s watching TV or helping in the garden. At the same time, they are very alert and always ready to warn their owners of visitors with a loud bark, which makes them excellent watchdogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aussies are very intelligent and quick to learn, but their innate independence and stubborn streak can be a challenge for an inexperienced owner. They were bred to make their own decisions, so don’t expect blind obedience. Their hunting instinct is very strong; they will fearlessly chase cats, squirrels, and other small animals. This hunting passion makes them similar to other tireless hunters like the German Hunting Terrier<\/a>, although the Aussie is more focused on the role of a companion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Their relationships with other dogs can be tense. Australian Terriers tend to be dominant and won’t back down from a fight, even if their opponent is much larger. Early and proper socialisation is critically important<\/strong> for this breed. On the other hand, they can co-exist peacefully with dogs they have grown up with. Despite their high energy, they are not as hyperactive as some other terriers. If you compare them, for example, to the more family-oriented Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier<\/a>, the Aussie has a more pronounced “guard dog” and hunter personality. They are devoted to a single owner or family and can be quite wary of strangers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pros and Cons of the Australian Terrier<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\u2705 Pros<\/th>\u274c Cons<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
Compact Size:<\/strong> Ideal for living in a flat.<\/td>Prone to Barking:<\/strong> Can be very “vocal” watchdogs.<\/td><\/tr>
Loyalty and Affection:<\/strong> Becomes a true member of the family.<\/td>Stubbornness and Independence:<\/strong> Requires patience during training.<\/td><\/tr>
Low Shedding:<\/strong> The harsh coat sheds very little with proper care.<\/td>Strong Hunting Instinct:<\/strong> May chase cats and other small animals.<\/td><\/tr>
Good Health:<\/strong> The breed is not prone to many genetic illnesses.<\/td>Requires Early Socialisation:<\/strong> Can be aggressive with other dogs.<\/td><\/tr>
High Intelligence:<\/strong> Quickly picks up new information.<\/td>Prone to Digging:<\/strong> Can turn your garden into a minefield.<\/td><\/tr>
Excellent Watchdog:<\/strong> Will always warn of danger.<\/td>Requires Significant Exercise:<\/strong> Not suitable for inactive people.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Care and Maintenance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Australian Terrier is a relatively low-maintenance dog, but its care has certain specific requirements related to its coat, energy level, and temperament.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. Grooming.<\/strong> The harsh coat of the Australian Terrier doesn’t require complicated care but does need regularity. It should be brushed 2-3 times a week<\/strong> with a metal comb to prevent matting and remove dead hair. The dog should only be bathed when it’s dirty, as frequent washing can dry out the skin and make the coat too soft. Important:<\/strong> this breed’s coat should not be clipped, as it damages its texture and colour. To maintain the correct texture, professional hand stripping (manually plucking out the dead hair) is recommended 2-4 times a year.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Physical Exercise.<\/strong> This is a very energetic breed. They need daily long walks (at least 1-1.5 hours a day) with the opportunity to run off-lead in a secure location. Aussies love active games, fetch, and frisbee. They also excel in dog sports like agility or obedience, which helps channel their energy and intelligence in the right direction.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Living Conditions.<\/strong> Thanks to their compact size, Australian Terriers adapt well to flat living, provided they get enough daily exercise. However, the ideal living situation for them is a house with a securely fenced garden. The fence should not only be high but also dug deep into the ground, as these dogs are master diggers<\/strong> and can easily burrow underneath.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Training and Raising an Australian Terrier<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
    \"A<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    Training this breed is an interesting but also challenging task. Their sharp minds allow them to pick up commands quickly, but their innate stubbornness means they will constantly test their owner. The key to success is patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement.<\/strong> Training sessions should be short, dynamic, and fun, otherwise, the dog will quickly get bored and refuse to cooperate. For a tasty treat or some praise, an Australian Terrier will do almost anything. Their stubbornness and hunting instincts are very similar to the traits of other small terriers, such as the Australian Silky Terrier<\/a>, which is, incidentally, a close relative but with a more decorative appearance and a softer coat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    It’s virtually impossible to stop them from chasing cats\u2014it’s an instinct honed over centuries. Therefore, it’s best to keep them on a lead when walking in urban areas. They are also prone to fighting with other dogs, so they need constant supervision in dog parks. Obedience training and dog sports will help you build a bond with your pet and make them more manageable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Health and Hereditary Diseases<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    Australian Terriers are a breed known for their robust health and longevity. They don’t have a long list of genetic diseases that plague many other breeds. However, there are a few health issues they can be prone to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    • Patellar Luxation:<\/strong> A common problem among small dog breeds where the kneecap slips out of its normal position.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Legg-Calv\u00e9-Perthes Disease:<\/strong> A condition affecting the head of the femur, leading to its deterioration and arthritis. This requires surgical intervention.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Hip Dysplasia:<\/strong> Although rare, it does occur. This is a hereditary condition, so it’s important to choose a puppy from a responsible breeder who tests their dogs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Allergies:<\/strong> They can suffer from skin allergies caused by food, pollen, or flea bites.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Diabetes Mellitus:<\/strong> The breed has a certain predisposition to this disease, especially in old age.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

      To minimise the risks, it’s vital to buy a puppy from a reputable breeder who provides health information about the parents. Regular vet check-ups, timely vaccinations, parasite control, and a proper diet are the foundation of a long and happy life for your beloved pet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Australian Terrier Feeding Recommendations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

      Proper nutrition is the key to your Australian Terrier’s health and activity. Owners can choose between two types of feeding: commercial dry food or a natural diet. It’s important not to mix these two types.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Commercial Food.<\/strong> This is the simplest and most balanced option. You should choose high-quality kibble from a super-premium or holistic<\/strong> class, designed for small, active breeds. Pay attention to the ingredients: meat should be listed first, not grains. Avoid foods containing soy, low-quality by-products, artificial colours, and preservatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Natural Diet.<\/strong> If you choose this route, the diet must be carefully balanced. The foundation (about 50-60%) should be lean meat (beef, turkey, chicken, rabbit). The diet should also include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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      • Offal (heart, liver):<\/strong> 1-2 times a week.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Sea fish (boneless):<\/strong> once a week.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Grains (rice, buckwheat):<\/strong> about 20-25%.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Vegetables (carrots, pumpkin, courgette, broccoli):<\/strong> about 15-20%.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Fermented dairy products (low-fat cottage cheese, kefir):<\/strong> several times a week.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Eggs:<\/strong> 1-2 times a week.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

        It is strictly forbidden<\/strong> to give your dog: chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, tubular bones, fatty, fried, smoked foods, sweets, and pastries. Regardless of the feeding type, your dog should always have access to clean, fresh water. An adult dog should be fed twice a day, while a puppy needs 3-5 meals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Interesting Facts About the Australian Terrier<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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        • First National Breed.<\/strong> The Australian Terrier was the first dog breed to be bred and officially recognised in Australia.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Snake Hunter.<\/strong> One of the main “jobs” for these terriers on farms was not only to catch rats but also to hunt dangerous venomous snakes, a task they excelled at thanks to their agility and bravery.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Protective ‘Ruff’.<\/strong> The dense and harsh hair around the neck forms a kind of collar that protected the dog from snake and rodent bites during scuffles.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Topknot.<\/strong> The soft topknot on their head, which contrasts with the harsh body coat, not only gives them a cute look but also protects their eyes from dust and sun.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Two Colours.<\/strong> The breed comes in two main colour types: blue and tan, and solid sandy or red. Interestingly, puppies with the blue colouring are born almost black.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

          Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

          Does the Australian Terrier shed a lot?<\/strong>
          No, this is a low-shedding breed. With regular brushing (2-3 times a week) and periodic hand stripping, the amount of hair in the house will be minimal. This makes them a good choice for people prone to allergies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Is the Australian Terrier suitable for families with young children?<\/strong>
          They can get on well with children, especially if they grow up together. However, they are best suited for families with older children (aged 7-8 and up) who understand how to handle a dog correctly and respectfully. Due to their terrier nature, they won’t tolerate rough handling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Can they live in a flat?<\/strong>
          Yes, Australian Terriers adapt well to flat living. The main condition is providing enough daily physical and mental exercise. Without this, they can become destructive and noisy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Do they get on well with other animals?<\/strong>
          It’s complicated. They have a very strong hunting instinct, so cats, hamsters, rabbits, and other small animals are potential prey for them. Co-existence is only possible with very early socialisation. They can also get into conflicts with other dogs over leadership, so introductions must be gradual and controlled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          How much does an Australian Terrier puppy cost?<\/strong>
          The cost of an Australian Terrier puppy from a professional breeder can vary significantly. The price depends on the pedigree, the parents’ titles, the kennel’s reputation, and the region. On average, you can expect to pay between \u00a3600 and \u00a31,500. It’s important not to choose the cheapest option, but rather a reputable breeder who cares about the health and socialisation of their dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Video About the Breed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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