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| Australian Terrier |
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The smallest of the working terriers, the Australian Terrier was the first Australian breed recognized and shown in Australia and first to be accepted in other countries. This fast, sturdy, fearless dog assisted settlers as they expanded into the frontiers of Australia. As killers of vermin and snakes, tending sheep, serving as watchdogs and companions they were incomparable and indefatiguable. Still, today, they are an excellent choice for a variety of lifestyles as his attitude, energy and spirit have them ready for each new adventure. |
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| General Information |
| Group(s):
Terrier |
Height: 10-11 inches |
| Weight: proportionate (usually around 12-16 pounds) |
Longevity: mid to late teens |
| Colors: blue and tan, solid sand, solid red |
Coat type: harsh and straight, undercoat is short and soft |
| Recognized Registries: AKC and others |
| Overall Appearance: Compact, longer in body than tall, moderate substance with very alert attitude, brilliant expression, prick ears, docked tail and coat of 2.5 inch harsh coat with furnishings over body. |
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| Personaility - Behavior - Training |
| Energy Level: high |
| General Nature: |
good but with strong terrier sense of justice |
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with Children: varies with individual |
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with other pets: varies with individual |
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with dogs: varies with individual |
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| Socialization requirements: very high - left without proper socialization they can be overwhelmed by new experiences |
| Ideal home characteristics: one that respects that this small dog is meant to be bold, fearless and confident but cannot rule the roost |
| Temperament Notes: charming, effusive, jaunty, easy to spoil |
| Training requirement: moderate, basic manners are needed |
| Trainer notes: Really wonderful dogs physically, easy to manage coat, compact size, sturdy and of good health. As a true Terrier, they cannot be spoiled or they will be tyrants in their own home to the point of showing aggression toward all others in the house. Without proper socialization they can find most experiences threatening and responde with fear aggression. With that said, they are a delightful breed to raise for the committed and dedicated family. The effort required in the dog's first year or so to develop a happy, well mannered and socialized companion is well worth the investment. |
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| Background Information |
| Year range of first recognition: 1880s |
| Country of Origin: Australia |
| Original Function: ratter, herder, companion and watchdog |
| History: Truly of pioneer stock, the Australian Terrier assisted those that expanded the frontiers of that country. |
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| Adoption Information |
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| Deviations from Standard: too big or small, coat is smoother or less dense, more fringes about the face, poor mouths; shy or aggressive; tail not docked or docked improperly |
| Health Notes: Cushings, Addisons, Thyroid issues, Diabetes, eye problems |
| Health Testing: CERF |
| Questions to ask Breeder: http://www.digitaldog.com/breeder_questions.html - The Breeder Questions as listed here provided with explanations and answers you will want to be looking for!
- How long have you had Australian Terriers?
- Do you have a written contract and puppy guarantee?
- How did you choose the sire of this litter?
- What health problems have you seen in the breed?
- Which health clearances do you get for breeding stock?
- What titles do you seek for your breeding stock?
- How old are the puppies when they go to their homes?
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| Web Sites: http://australianterrier.org/rescue.html - Information on Australian Terrier Rescue |
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| Other Resources |
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