Australian Terrier

Also known as: Aussie

Size Category:Small
Height:10-11 inches
Weight:15-20 pounds
Life Span:11-15 years

Affectionate With Family

How affectionate a breed is likely to be with family members, or other people he knows well. Some breeds can be aloof with everyone but their owner, while other breeds treat everyone they know like their best friend.

Good With Young Children

A breed's level of tolerance and patience with childrens' behavior, and overall family-friendly nature. Dogs should always be supervised around young children, or children of any age who have little exposure to dogs.

Good With Other Dogs

How generally friendly a breed is towards other dogs. Dogs should always be supervised for interactions and introductions with other dogs, but some breeds are innately more likely to get along with other dogs, both at home and in public.

Openness To Strangers

How welcoming a breed is likely to be towards strangers. Some breeds will be reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the location, while other breeds will be happy to meet a new human whenever one is around!

Note: Scores reflect typical breed tendencies. Individual dogs may vary based on training, environment, and genetics.

Note: Some traits may be unavailable for certain breeds due to limited or inconsistent data from recognized sources.

Care Guide

  • Australian Terrier grooming requires minimal effort due to its weatherproof double coat
  • weekly brushing keeps the coat clean and healthy
  • pluck long hairs near eyes to prevent irritation
  • bathe only when necessary to preserve coat’s dirt-repelling properties
  • avoid over-bathing to prevent dry, flaky skin
  • trim nails regularly as with all breeds

Colors & Markings

Colors

Blue & TanRedSandy

Health Information

The Australian Terrier is generally a robust breed with minimal health concerns. Ethical breeders prioritize health testing for conditions like luxating patella (kneecap dislocation) and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, a hip joint deformity treatable with surgery. Some dogs may develop skin allergies, making flea prevention crucial. Regular ear checks and dental care are essential, as with all breeds.

Recommended Health Tests

Patella EvaluationOphthalmologist EvaluationThyroid Evaluation

📜 History

The Australian Terrier originated in the 19th century from British settlers who brought working terrier breeds to Australia. This breed developed through crossbreeding popular British terriers like the Cairn, Dandie Dinmont, Norwich, Scottish, Skye, and Yorkshire Terriers. Australian Terriers were specifically bred for their fearless, versatile pest control abilities, tackling small mammals and snakes with a distinctive 'leap-twist-and-pounce' technique. Their rugged life in Australia’s remote outback created a deep bond with humans, showcasing both their tough working nature and affectionate, loyal personalities. Today, Australian Terriers remain highly social and thrive as devoted family companions, often considered Australia’s first officially recognized native dog breed. The breed gained international recognition early, with the first Australian Terrier club forming in Melbourne in 1887, followed by breed standard development and exports to the U.S. and Britain. The Kennel Club (England) officially recognized the breed in 1933, and the AKC followed in 1960.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the Australian Terrier is generally excellent with children. They are typically patient and tolerant, making them great family pets. However, supervision with young children is always recommended.
No, the Australian Terrier is considered a low-shedding breed. While all dogs shed slightly, this breed is much easier on your furniture and clothes tailored for those who dislike cleanup.
Yes, the Australian Terrier is generally intelligent and eager to please, which makes them easier to train than many other breeds. Positive reinforcement works best.
The Australian Terrier is relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Occasional brushing and baths are usually sufficient.
The Australian Terrier can be a suitable choice for a first-time owner who is willing to do their research and dedicate time to training and care.

🔗Related Breeds

Breeds similar to Australian Terrier

Overview

About This Breed

The Australian Terrier is a spirited, courageous, and affectionate breed with a strong bond to its family. Energetic and playful, it thrives on interaction and mental stimulation, though its independent nature can make training a challenge. Despite its tough working background, it is also a cuddly and devoted companion when not at work.

🎭Temperament

SpiritedAlertLoyalCompanionableEven TemperedCourageous

Purpose

Fearless, all-purpose exterminator (hunting small mammals and snakes)

Breed for

Cattle herdering, hunting snakes and rodents

Best Suited For

Active families or individuals who can provide companionship and regular exercise; adaptable to apartments if exercised sufficiently

Ideal Owner Profile

This breed is best suited for an active, engaged owner or family who can provide companionship, regular exercise, and firm but consistent training, while also appreciating its spirited and loyal personality.

Training Difficulty

Moderate

Care Difficulty

Low

Common Challenges

Owners may face challenges with stubbornness during training and the breed's strong prey drive, which requires secure containment to prevent chasing small animals.

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About Our Data

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Accuracy Assured

Our breed data is standardized using a consistent scoring system across temperament, trainability, and care needs to ensure fair comparisons based on the same criteria.

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