Australian Terrier

The Australian Terrier is an affectionate, energetic and entertaining little dog. He does well with young children if raised with them and if they are not teased. Although originally bred to kill small vermin, these dogs may be able to live peacefully with cats if raised with them. The coat color of an Australian Terrier is blue and tan, solid sand or solid red. The Australian Terrier stands between ten and eleven inches at the withers and weighs between twelve and fourteen pounds.

The Australian Terrier breed was originally known as the Blue-and-Tan Terrier, the Blue Terrier, or the Australian Rough Coated Terrier and today affectionately as the Aussie. It was created in the 19th century by crossing several terrier breeds including Yorkshire, Norwich, Cairn, Scottish, Dandie Dinmont, Skye and Irish Terriers. Although in earlier days there was some hostility towards the breed, it steadily gained popularity and was officially recognized by the Kennel Club in 1933.

It is one of the smalliest of the terriers, but one of the hardiest and bravest. The Aussie can withstand almost any weather and any hardship. Easy to look after and very trainable, he makes a very good apartment dog, as he sheds very little and does not need a lot of exercise. In personality The Australian Terrier is described as energetic, high-spirited, loyal, and affectionate pet.

Its outer coat is harsh and straight, and about two and a half inches long all over the body. Undercoat short and soft. The Australian Terrier requires minimum grooming. To maintain a good coat condition, frequent brushing and combing is usually recommended, but only little trimming is required to prepare your dog for the show ring. There are 3 to 4 puppies in litter of Australian Terrier.

Photo courtesy of Teraustralis