GROUP: Terrier • ORIGIN: Australia • ORGINAL FUNCTION: Hunting • COAT: Medium • COLOR: All Colors • HEIGHT: 9 to 10 in • WEIGHT: 12 to 15 lb • LIFESPAN: 12-14 Years
Description:
The Australian Terrier is a playful, affectionate, and friendly breed often seen as one of the finest all-rounds pets for families to own. A dog that will also bark incessantly if a stranger should approach, so makes a great watchdog.
Australian Terriers are a clever breed, moderately easy to train and loves to learn new tricks, and one of the more obedient members within the Terrier Class. Happy in the company of other pets and dogs, but still reserved with someone unfamiliar.
History Of The Australian Terrier:
A breed originating from Australia as its name would suggest, going back to early 1900's. It first appeared in Tasmania and a small sized dog for those working terriers. It descends from several of the European dog breeds and shares a history common to the Silky Terrier.
The Tasmania rough-coated terriers acted in a variety of jobs, such as a watchdog, killing snakes and small rodents, and assisting in livestock control. The initial stock was crossbred with several other breeds - namely the Dandie Dinmont, Skye, Scotch, Yorkshire, and Manchester Terrier.
This breed went through a number of name changes before settling on Australian Terrier. Offer names known include Blue Terrier, Tan Terrier, and Toy Terrier. It later arrived in the United States in 1925 and recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1960.
Australian Terrier Temperament:
The Australian Terrier is one dog that thrives on human companionship and loves to spend hours being pampered with its family. A small member of the Terrier Group, but with a high energy level - this results in ample exercise time with vigorous games, brisk walks, and running outside all ideal.
This dog breed is able to tolerate warm and cool temperatures but aren't built to live outdoors, as they need to be near their family. Grooming consists of a good brushing once weekly to remove dead hairs from the wiry coat and an occasional trim around the feet area.
Health Information:
Health concerns seen with this breed include Patellar Luxation, Diabetes, Legg-perthes, Cruciate Ligament Rupture, and Seizures.