<b>History:</> One of the smallest working terriers, the Australian Terrier was first shown as the Australian Rough-Coated Terrier in 1868 in Melbourne, Australia. The breed was probably created by crossing many terrier breeds including the Cairn, Dandie Dinmont, Irish, Yorkshire and Skye terriers. He was used for rodent and snake control, as a watchdog and as a companion. The Australian Terrier is relatively new to the United States, and was first recognized by the AKC in 1960.
<b>Description:</> The Australian Terrier is a sturdy little dog with a long head, erect ears and sparkling dark eyes. The black nose has a V-shaped space above it. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The body is slightly longer than tall, with a level topline. The chest is strong, moderately wide and deep. The tail is docked and stands up. The rough-textured, weatherproof coat is about 2-1/2 inches long and comes in solid red, sandy, or dark or silvery blue with tan markings on the head and legs. The breed sports a top knot between the ears, and an apron and ruff that are lighter colored and finer-textured than the rest of the coat. Dewclaws are generally removed when the puppy is a few days old. The feet are small and cat-like.
<b>Notes:</> More easily obedience trained than most terriers. Adaptable to almost any climate. Good traveler. Very economical to feed and easy to care for. A fine watchdog because of his excellent hearing and eyesight.
<b>Personality:</> Alert, wants to please. Amusing and lovable. Spirited, self-assured and curious. Has very keen hearing and eyesight, making him an outstanding watchdog. Devoted and affectionate. Good with children--not snappish. This breed gets along well with other pets.
<b>Behavior:</>
<C>Children:</C> Best with older, considerate children.
<C>Friendliness:</C> Reserved with strangers.
<C>Trainability:</C> Easy to train.
<C>Independence:</C> Moderately dependent on people.
<C>Dominance:</C> Low.
<C>Other Pets:</C> Generally good with other pets.
<C>Combativeness:</C> Friendly with other dogs.
<C>Noise:</C> Average barker.
<b>Grooming and Physical Needs:</>
<C>Grooming:</C> Regular grooming needed.
<C>Trimming & Stripping:</C> Some trimming or stripping (little skill required).
<C>Coat:</C> Medium coat.
<C>Shedding:</C> Very light.
<C>Docking:</C> The tail is customarily docked.
<C>Exercise:</C> Very little exercise needed.
<C>Jogging:</C> Small, but a pretty good jogging companion.
<C>Indoors:</C> Fairly active indoors.
<C>Apartments:</C> Good for apartment living.
<C>Outdoor Space:</C> Does all right without a yard.
<C>Climate:</C> Does well in most climates.
<C>Owner:</C> Good for novice owners.
<C>Longevity:</C> Long (15 or more years).
<b>Talents:</> tracking, watchdog, agility, and performing tricks.
<b>For More Information:</>
Call the AKC Breeder Referral Hotline: 1-900-407-PUPS for the name of a breeder referral representative in your area. Cost is 99 cents per minute.
<b>Photo Caption:</> AUSTRALIAN TERRIER
Photo copyright: Cook PhoDOGraphy 1995. All rights reserved.
