Australian Terrier

A small terrier shaped by life in Australia

British settlers took several kinds of terrier to Australia. These dogs contributed to a versatile local worker that hunted small pests and watched over the farm. A breed club was established in Melbourne in 1887, placing the Australian Terrier among the breeds developed early in Australia.

Its body is low to the ground and a little longer than it is tall. Harsh outer hair covers a short, softer undercoat. A pronounced ruff surrounds the neck, with softer hair on top of the head. Colours include blue with tan markings, meaning warm brown areas of the coat, and solid sandy or red. In its breed standard, the international canine organisation FCI gives male dogs an approximate shoulder height of 25 centimetres and weight of 6.5 kilograms. Females should be a little smaller and lighter.

Daily life often reveals an observant, busy companion that likes joining in with its family. It may dig in the garden or follow a mouse scent on a walk. Small household pets should therefore be kept physically separate. Children should learn to leave the dog undisturbed while it eats or sleeps. An adult should guide games so that this small dog is neither crowded nor repeatedly picked up.

Everyday life

An Australian Terrier needs daily walks, play and manageable tasks. A varied walk gives it time to investigate smells and discover something new. Short exercises can fit around that exploration, such as coming back to you or touching your hand with its nose. A small reward should make the desired behaviour clear. Brief, successful repetitions are usually more engaging than practising the same task for a long time.

Returning when called should first be practised in quiet surroundings. Outside, a long training lead attached to a well fitted harness can allow exploration while helping you prevent a chase. Garden boundaries should be secure at ground level too, because a terrier may dig under a fence. A designated digging area can be a useful addition for a dog that enjoys moving soil.

A flat can work well when exercise and exploration happen outside. You should arrange care for longer absences. Short, relaxed separations can help prepare your dog for time alone. If it paces continuously or barks for a long time, the exercise should be made easier. Persistent distress is a reason to seek professional help with its cause.

Everyday dog training: recall, a loose lead and clear communication ↗

Day-to-day care

The harsh coat should be brushed regularly and checked down to the skin. Dirt and small tangles can be easy to miss behind the ears, on the legs and beneath a harness. After walking through long grass, you should also check between the toes. A groomer experienced with wire coated terriers can show you how to care for your dog’s particular coat.

The small mouth needs care as well. Toothbrushing should be introduced gradually with a suitable brush and dog toothpaste. Very brief first attempts help the dog become comfortable with touch around its mouth. Nails, skin and ears should also be checked regularly. Redness or pain needs veterinary attention rather than being brushed aside during grooming.