small Breed Dogs
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Australian Terrier
Toy Breed Dogs
Small Breed Dogs



Manufactured Dog Food VS Home Cooked Food
The food that you feed to your dog will have a direct impact on their health. Whether a young puppy who needs great nutrient to properly grow, an adult who needs to maintain weight and energy levels or a senior who can has a sensitive digestive system.

In addition, the choice you make can directly impact behavioral issues, such as eating grass or feces.
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What you MUST Know Before Getting a Puppy
Forget about the normal list that everyone writes about..."puppy proof your home", "choose the right breed".  The information you must know, goes MUCH deeper than that. This is information that no one talks about, the behind-the-scenes info you really must know before you make your choice....Click to Read More
Average Height: 10-11 inches (25.4 - 27.94 cm)
 Average Weight: 14-16 lbs. (6.35-7.25 kg)
Pronounced: uhs-Trale-E-en   TEH-ree-er
Group: Terrier
Life Span: 15 Years
Average Litter: 5
Origin: Australia

Description

The Australian Terrier is a rather unique looking small breed dog. He is strong and sturdy for his size and is noticeably longer than he is high.  The muzzle is strong and powerful and the small ears stand erect on the somewhat larger in relation head.  The coat is very harsh, straight and is usually just about 2.5 inches (6.35 cm) long. 

Colors

This dog has many possibilities of fur color,  often with one color blending into another one.  The colors of the Australian Terrier are: Blue, red, sandy, black, tan, brindle and sable.   Red is a deep, dark orange.  Sandy is a lighter, creamier color than the tan.  Brindle is is mixture of colors, akin to a "tiger like" pattern. Sabling is dark tips of the hairs.  The darkness of the coat depends on how much of each hair is black compared to  the lighter color.

Personality

With his strong personality, this is a very active dog who seems to believe he is much larger than he actually is.  Very bold and outgoing, he is intelligent and confident.  Even so,  this small dog is also known to be very friendly and enjoys showing affection to his owners. .  With this combination, the Australian Terrier makes a great family companion.  Often referred to with the nickname Aussie", he is a natural protector,  making a excellent watchdog as he will alert you to anything out of the ordinary. 

Origin & History

While in Australia, the British bred this dog in an attempt to develop a breed that was an excellent ratter (used to help keep the huge vermin population under control). They blended Terriers which has been imported to Australia  from England and Scotland, therefore this dog as many different breeds in his bloodline.

This dog was also used to hunt after snakes; very agile he would be known for quickly jumping into the air and landing directly on the snake's neck.  Eventually imported into America, the AKC made  its official recognition in 1958.

Health

On average, generally very healthy, the issues to keep an eye on are:
  • Diabetes
  • Luxating patella
  • Legg-Perthes disease
Exercise

Very active, an owner should be prepared to take this dog for a minimum of 1 good 30 minute walk per day, with 2 strong paced walks being best.  Due to the instinct to chase after little creatures, an owner must take care to always use a leash and instill strong heeling training.

Grooming

The harsh coat is relatively easy to care for.  The fur around the eyes and ears tends to grow quickly, therefore trimming must usually be done every 2-3 months for both hygiene, health and vision reasons (regarding the eye fur).  Long hairs may sometimes grow inside the ears and should be plucked out; this will help avoid ear infections and the possibility of mites.

With this particular type of coat, bathing only needs to be done once per month.  Brushing should be done while the fur is air drying. In many cases a brushing will remove dirt well.  A good brushing should be done at least 1 time per week, to keep the coat tangle free.

The coat will not usually grow passed 2.5 inches (6.35 cm) long, therefore an overall trimming is almost never necessary.

Shedding

Shedding is very light.  In some cases a female will shed after a heat cycle or after delivering a litter.

Care & Training

With the tendency and instinct to "chase" an owner must firmly train for commands and heeling.  When outside, always have a leash. Almost always wanting to alert his owner to people and outside elements, some training for barking control may be needed.

Since this is a small breed dog, one should be aware of all possible health issues and behavioral issues.  And of course, the senior Australian Terrier will need proper care.

If you are thinking about getting a puppy, you may wish to read some important information about purchasing a puppy. Just click here.

If you already own an Aussie Terrier, you may wish to click here for more detailed are information




                 
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