Australian Terrier

Dog Breed Profile

Australian Terrier History

The Australian Terrier is a terrier-type of herding working dog that originated in Australia. The ancestors of the Australian Terrier were most likely imported to the continent from the United States of America during the 1850s, where they were used for rabbit hunting and rodent control. The first recorded description of the Australian Terrier was in 1868, when the name was used to describe a foxhound that belonged to a visiting English gentleman. The first official recognition of the Australian Terrier took place in 1891, when the American Kennel Club (AKC) first registered the breed.

Time of Origin

1800s

Country of Origin

Australia

Ancestry

English White Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, Cairn Terrier, Scottish Terrier, Skye Terrier, Norwich Terrier

Australian Terrier Physical Characteristics

The Australian Terrier is a small, medium-to-large sized terrier breed that typically stands between 10 and 16 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 18 and 30 pounds. They have a compact, muscular body and a short, straight, hard coat that is tri-colored (black, red, and white) or black. They have wide, round head with erect ears and a dark or hazel colored nose. They are cheerful, energetic, and alert.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Black

Coat Colors

Red, Blue, Cream

Height Range

Male Height Range: 10 – 11 inches

Female Height Range: 10 – 11 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 15 – 20 lbs

Female Weight Range: 14 – 18 lbs

Australian Terrier Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

12-14 yrs

Australian Terrier Health Concerns

Diabetes, Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, None

Australian Terrier Temperament and Behaviour

The Australian Terrier is a small, compact, short-legged terrier of medium weight. He has a broad head with a flat skull, and his ears are small and erect. He is alert, inquisitive, independent, and full of energy. He is an active little dog who loves to play. He is fearless and has a high prey drive. He is also loyal and loving to his family.

Australian Terrier Activity Requirements

Australian Terriers are small, compact dogs that were originally bred for hunting and for protecting livestock. They are intelligent, lively, and agile. While the Australian Terrier can usually get enough exercise on a daily walk, they also enjoy playing in the yard. Due to their small size, they do not require an excessive amount of space, but they do enjoy the chance to run around. Like most small breeds, the Australian Terrier can be prone to weight problems. It is important to provide your Aussie Terrier with proper nutrition and plenty of opportunities to burn off some energy.