Australian Terrier Dogs, puppy, pictures, information

(Also known as the "Aussie")

Appearance

• Australian Terrier dogs are one of the smallest breeds in the terrier family.


• This breed has short legs, a longer looking head and erect, v-shaped ears.


• They have a weather-proof double coat that is roughly 2 to 3 inches long.


• Their coat includes variations of the following colors:


1. solid sandy
2. solid red
3. blue and tan
• The Aussie weighs about 10 to 14 pounds.


• They are typically 10 to 11 inches tall at the withers.

Temperament

• These dogs are smart and energetic.


• This small dog breed is normally very loyal to its master and immediate family.


• Although they are small, the Aussie is known for its toughness and courage.


• Due to their keen eye sight and hearing abilities they are also excellent watchdogs.


• This breed may not always behave well around other dogs and they tend to chase small animals outside of the home.


• Lastly, when playing with these dogs children must understand that this breed does not enjoy rough behavior. They may have the tendency to “snap” at a child who is being unkind or aggressive.

Living Standards

• This breed will do good in a home with a fenced-in yard that is small to moderate size.


• If you live in an apartment, the Aussie will be fine as long as you get him plenty of exercise.

Exercise

• This breed should be walked on a daily basis (a moderate to long distance is recommended).


• Be sure to allow this dog to run in a safe area that is blocked off as well.


• These small dogs love to play and chase after things. Be sure to provide them with dog toys and tennis balls to chase.

Litter Size

• The Australian Terrier puppy is normally born into a litter of 3 to 5 pups.

Health and Life Expectancy

• The Aussie is a rather healthy breed.


• The primary health concerns include the following:


1. Diabetes
2. Allergic Dermatitis
3. Luxating Patella
4. Ear infections
5. Cataracts


• The life expectancy of this breed is typically between 10 and 14 years of age.

Trainability and Obedience

• Compared to other Terriers, the Aussie is easy to train.


• Be consistent and firm with your commands when training this dog.


• In order for this breed to listen to their masters, they must feel that you are the leader.


• Due to their intelligence and loyal personality, they will “pick up” on obedience training rather quickly.


• It is best to begin training the Aussie when he is a puppy.


• Remember that any small dog breed can develop small dog syndrome if not properly trained.

Grooming

• In general, this breed is quite clean.


• Brushing the coat with a soft brush at least once a week should suffice.


• Remember to keep their hair short around the eyes, the ears, on the back of the tail, and between the pads on their feet.


• This small dog breed does not require regular bathing. Over bathing may cause dry or flaky skin and can soften their harsh coat.

History

• Australian Terrier dogs are a direct descendent of the rough coated terriers that were brought from Great Britain to Australia in the early 1800s.


• The purpose of these dogs was to kill small rodents such as mice and rats.


• The first development of these dogs began in Tasmania during the 1820s.


• In 1887, the first Australian Terrier Club was formed essentially recognizing the breed.


• This breed was introduced to the United States in the late 1940s.
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• This small dog breed became a member of the AKC (American Kennel Club) in 1977.

Australian Terrier Pictures and Videos