The Courageous and Affectionate Australian Terrier

As their name implies, the Australian Terrier was developed in Australia, and they were bred to hunt and eradicate snakes and rodents. Australian Terriers were popular as watchdogs and companions. Today, the Australian Terrier dog breed we know still has those same characteristics. They are always a delightful companion, a ferocious earthdog competitor, and an obedience showman.

History of the Australian Terrier 

Experts believe that the Australian Terrier’s ancestor is a dog breed known as the Rough-Coated Terrier. This said breed is related to the Scotch dog that came from Great Britain. Breed researchers agree that this the Scotch dog was crossed with other British Terriers that were imported to Australia, such as the precursor of the Skye, DandieDinmont Terrier, Black and Tan Terrier, as well as the Yorkshire. As a result, they got a tough and courageous Australian Terrier. During these times, European settlers in Australia faced a rough problem, and they needed a fearless and hard-working dog that could help them work even in different kinds of weather. This is why back then, they bred Australian Terriers to help them control and exterminate snakes nd rats in gold mines, sheep stations in the outback, and waterfronts. This dog breed was also used as shepherds, companions, and watchdogs to the people living in stressful outposts in Australia.

The Australian Terrier was the first native breed that was recognized in Australia. In 1868, this breed was first known as the Australian rough-coated Terrier. After 29 years, it was officially renamed as the Australian Terrier. This dog breed was imported in England by the British aristocracy and some members of the foreign service. In 1933, the Kennel Club in England finally recognized this breed was recognized by the Kennel Club in England. During the late 1940s, travelers and servicemen brought the Australian Terrier to the United States, where they debuted the breed in the Westminister Kennel Club show. A woman named Nell Fox of Pleasant Pastures Kennels, who also wrote the book called Australian Terrier helped bring recognition to the breed in the United States. Fox, who is a native of New Zealand, had been familiar with the Australian Terrier since her youth, and she has imported some of the first Australian Terriers in the United States. In 1960, the Australian Terrier was recognized by American Kennel Club.

Characteristics of Australian Terriers

Height: 10-11 inches

Weight: 15-20 pounds

Life Expectancy: 11-15 years

Hypoallergenic: Yes

Both male and female Australian Terrier can grow up to 10 to 11 inches tall and weigh about 14 to 16 pounds. The Australian Terrier is an upbeat and fun-loving dog breed who is a great companion for anyone or a family that is willing to share his energetic lifestyle. This breed is highly devoted to their owners, and they are the happiest when you make them part of your daily life. The Australian Terrier likes to be in the house following you room to room, playing with kids, or even racing you the front door whenever you greet a friend. Australian Terriers are clever, and they are easy to train just as long as you keep them busy and make sure that they are never bored.

Caring for Australian Terriers

The Australian Terrier enjoys the company of their human companions. They are best when they are living in the house, they should not be left on their own devices in the yard because they have the tendency to dig up like a gopher if they have the chance. If you’re going to let them out in a yard, you should supervise them closely. We suggest that you don’t leave them alone too long or they can be overcome by temptation and your pretty and tidy landscaping will be history. If you have a yard, it is best that you securely fence your backyard to match with the Australian Terrier’s behavior because they will chase and take off after any rat, rabbit, or rat they see if they are not supervised. Since all dogs in the Terrier group can be bossy and aggressive, especially when they are around other dogs, you need to train your Australian Terrier proper socialization. Always remember that Australian Terriers are fast learners, which is why it would be best if you don’t bore them by giving them the same lessons over and over again. Motivation is key when it comes to training Australian Terriers, and you should keep in mind that the task at hand must be challenging and fun for them. We suggest that you must offer them an irresistible incentive, such as toys, verbal praise, and of course, treats. Australian Terriers require plenty of exercises every day, such as taking them several brisk walks or playing fetch.