Australian Terrier
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 Description:
The Australian Terrier is a small, high-energy,
lovable dog. While small in frame, this breed
is very protective and makes an excellent watchdog.
The exact origins of the Australian Terrier are
not known, however, it is believed it shares a
common ancestry with these Terrier breeds developed
in the 1800s - Cairn, Norwich, Irish, Manchester,
Yorkie and Dandie Dinmont.
The Australian Terrier was developed in Australia
in the 19th century. This new, rough-coated Terrier
was used as a helper, a companion and for rodent
and snake control. They were also prized for their
watchdog abilities.
In 1868, broken-coated Terriers were shown for
the first time in Melbourne. In 1887, the Australian
Rough-Coated Terrier Club was founded in the same
city with the purpose to standardize the breed.
These dogs were then shown in 1899 as the Australian
Terrier, Rough-Coated - colors noted in show records
were sandy & red and blue & tan. By 1896
a standard for this breed had been established.
England granted breed status in 1933 and the American
Kennel Club admitted the breed in 1960.
Height: The height for an Australian Terrier
is between 9-11 inches (23-28 cm.) Bitches are
slightly shorter than dogs.
Weight: The
weight for an Australian Terrier is between 9-14
pounds (4-6 kg.) Bitches weigh slightly less than
dogs.
Coat Type: The
Australian Terrier's outer coat is rough and straight
while the undercoat is soft and short. The length
all over is about 2½ inches (6.4 cm), except
the tail, lower part of the rear legs, pasterns
and the feet which are kept free of long hair.
The length on the ears is kept very short. The
neck has a lot of hair which frames the face.
The Australian Terrier has a topknot which is
of a finer and softer texture, covers only the
top of the head. The breed standard specifies
the coat should be untrimmed, however, some prefer
to do so anyway for a neater appearance for the
show ring. Grooming maintenance is minimal - the
coat only needs to be brushed several times a
week. The Australian Terrier sheds very little
or not at all.
Color: The color
of the Australian Terrier's coat can be blue &
tan, solid sandy, and solid red.
Temperament: The
Australian Terrier is very friendly, loyal, protective,
and it makes a great companion. This breed has
a very keen sense of hearing and vision making
it a great watchdog. It does best inside the home
with the family and not outside for long periods
of time. Australian Terriers instinctively dig
and they love to chase squirrels, cats and rabbits.
This lively, curious and lovable dog is good with
children, but should not be teased. As for obedience
training, it does well, but training must be strict
and consistent since Australian Terriers has a
mind of its own.
Health Problems: A
2002 health survey conducted by the Australian
Terrier Club of America indicated major causes
of death of the Australian Terrier is from cancer
(67%), old age (17%), undetermined (16%), and
diabetes (13%). However, the Australian Terrier
is generally a very healthy breed with an average
life span of 15 years plus. And, overall, this
breed has relatively minor health problems.
Special Interests:
• The first Australian breed which was recognized
and shown in its native land was the Australian
Terrier. It was also the first Australian breed
officially accepted in other countries.
Classifications:
AKC: Group 4 - Terrier Group
CKC: Terrier Group
KC: Terrier Group
UKC: Terrier Group
FCI: Group 3; Section 2 - Small-sized Terriers
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