History

Developed in Australia, the Australian Terriers are the smallest of all working terriers. The bloodline of the Australian Terriers can be traced to Cairn, Dandie Dinmont, Irish and Yorkshire terriers. This breed of dog was first exhibited in 1868, in Melbourne; and was originally known as the Australian Rough-Coated Terrier. The Australian Terriers were widely used to control rodents and snakes.

Appearance

The Australian Terriers are rather bold and an affectionate breed of dog. They feature a long head, v-shaped ears, short legs, deep chest, a slightly elongated body, and a docked upright tail. The Australian Terriers have rough weather-resistant coat, which comes in solid red, sandy, or dark/silvery blue with tan markings on the head and legs. Normally, this breed of dog may grow up to a height of 9–11 inches and weighs around 9–14 pounds.

Color

The coat colours include: black, black/white, tan/black, red/black, white, ivory, cream, yellow and silver.

Personality

The Australian Terriers are extremely intelligent and protective of their family. They are a fun-loving and loveable breed of dog. They are excellent as watchdogs, as they have very good sense of sight and sound. They are more obedient than most of the terriers, and are always ready to please their master. They are easily trainable and are good with children. They tend to be aloof with strangers.

Health Concerns

This dog breed is very healthy and does not have many health problems. The Australian Terriers are free of most of the major hereditary diseases.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, ANKC, NZKC