New Dog World: Australian Terrier Dog Breed: Tiny Charming Dog

Saturday 29 March 2014

Australian Terrier Dog Breed: Tiny Charming Dog

Breed: Australian Terrier

AKC Breed Group: Terrier

Other Registries: ANKC (Terriers); CKC (Terriers); KC (Terrier); FCI (Terriers); UKC (Terrier)

Weight: 12-14 lbs

Height: 10-11 inches

Color: Blue and Tan, Solid Sandy and Purple

Origin: Australia

Australian Terrier Overview

This dog breed is classified as one of the smallest working terriers. The Australian Terrier was developed in Australia. They are bred for a number of purposes, including watchdogs, shepherds, vermin hunters and pets. Australian Terriers are native-bred Australian dogs and the breed has been acknowledged in various countries.

Australian Terrier Characteristics

This dog breed is low-set and small, but very sturdy. The Australian Terrier is strong and has a true terrier nature. They are charming, proud, hardy, alert and confident dogs. Despite their size, the Australian Terrier is fearless and courageous. This breed makes a wonderful companion dog and is an excellent choice for a variety of lifestyles.

Australian Terrier Temperament

This dog breed has the bravery and braveness of a dog far bigger than their size. The Australian Terrier is extremely affectionate with their family, loyal, and extremely intelligent. This breed is exceedingly amusing, spirited, and curious. The Australian Terrier does best in a home with older children and gets along with most other dogs and pets, but they are predisposed to chasing the cats and other small animals. The Australian Terrier thrives on human interaction and does not like to be left alone for prolonged periods. This dog breed has acute hearing and keen eyesight, which makes them superb watchdogs. They are weary of strangers, but seldom aggressive, except when provoked.

Australian Terrier Care

This breed requires brushing a number of times a week and their coat should be plucked every three months or so. The Australian Terrier seldom requires a bath and to preserve the natural oils of the coat this should only be done when absolutely necessary. Trimming across the eyes and ears is occasionally required. The Australian Terrier is a relatively healthy breed, but they are susceptible to patella luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, diabetes, epilepsy, pore and skin allergies and thyroid disorders.

Australian Terrier Coat

This dog breed has a double, weather-proof coat. The outer coat of the Australian Terrier is straight, harsh and tough in texture. The under coat is short, and soft. The hair on the body is longer than that in the tail, rear leg and feet. This breed has a protective ruff of softer hair at the neck, which blends into an apron. The forelegs have gentle feathering and there is a topknot of soft hair, which covers the top of the head. The Australian Terrier comes in various colors including dark blue, silvery blue with tan markings on the legs and head, stable red and sandy. This breed sheds little to no hair.

Australian Terrier Training

This dog breed is a fast-study. They are eager to learn and relatively easy to train. The Australian Terrier bores easily and dislikes repetition. Early socialization and obedience training is recommended. Firm, fair and consistent training techniques, coupled with motivation and reward, work best for this breed. They do not respond well to harsh or heavy-handed methods. The Australian Terrier is adept in the areas of agility, tracking and obedience.

Australian Terrier Activity

To keep them physically and mentally fit, the Australian Terrier requires regular exercise and stimulation. This breed tends to bore easily, which can lead to destructive behavior. The Australian Terrier enjoys a leashed walk, family play sessions and a good romp. This breed adapts well to apartment or condominium living, provided they receive adequate exercise and stimulation.