Bred for Aussie conditions, Australian Terriers are noted for their loyalty, intelligence and gung-ho attitude. Expect to find them running mad around the park.

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The bite-sized Australian Terrier is lively, spirited and even cheeky, despite their stature. They are very friendly, loyal and show great affection toward their family. Intelligent, curious, and with a keen sense of sight and sound, they make excellent watchdogs. Australian Terriers are easy to train and make good pets. They like to bark but are also eager to please, so they can be quite easily trained into stopping after the first alert.

With a natural instinct for prey, it may be too tempting to play ‘chase’ with cats and other small animals. Socialising these self-assured cuties early is important, as is firm and patient obedience training or you’ll find them doing things which may be fun for them, but not so fun for you. Don’t bother making them a nice big kennel in the yard. This ‘Made Down Under’ breed revels in human company and would rather be curled up in a bed, right next to you. Australian Terriers live for around 14 years.

Fun fact: Like humans, Australian Terriers favour a paw

and will either be left or right-handed.

While their extra-small size makes them ideal for apartment living, their exuberant energy means a daily walk is a must. Playing ball is another favourite. They get bored easily and will resort to digging, chasing and barking if not stimulated enough. Make sure your Australian Terrier is trained to walk off lead and that you have a fenced yard or you’ll be chasing them as they chase your neighbour’s rabbit.

Their stiff, long, shaggy coat is easy to care for. Brush it gently with a soft brush daily or a few times a week and bath only when necessary. Too much washing may strip off the natural oils, leading to a non-glossy coat. Trim around their eyes and ears using a pair of blunt-nosed scissors. It’s best to find a professional dog groomer. Australian Terriers shed little.

Scheduled six monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. Australian Terriers are a relatively healthy breed, but are prone to bone developmental issues such as dislocating kneecaps and skin allergies. Together with your vet, you can develop and maintain a preventative health care program based on the individual needs of your canine companion.

Size

An Australian Terrier is a small-sized breed weighing approximately 6kgs, with a height of approximately 25cms.

Space

An Australian Terrier is a great apartment pet if exercised enough.

Energy Levels

The equivalent of a gym-bunny, loving a good workout, but they also love napping. Daily walks and lots of games are ideal for keeping this breed fit.

Difficulty of Training

They are intelligent and eager to please. With consistent training, they make great pets.

Family Suitability

They are great family pets and loyal companions.

Compatibility with other Pets

They will soon be besties with your cat.

Need for Company

They have a high need for company and enjoy spending time with their family. They may follow you from room to room.

Hypoallergenic Dog Breed?

No

Coat and Grooming Needs

This breed requires moderate maintenance. They have a short-to-medium coat in blue and tan, steel blue, dark grey-blue, solid sandy, red or black. Brush their coat weekly and check their ears regularly.

Shedding

They shed little.

Tendency to Bark

They have a moderate tendency to bark, so expect some conversation.

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