History of the Australian Terrier Breed
Considered to be among the smallest of the working terrier breeds, the Australian terrier is also the national terrier of Australia. Research suggests that ancestors of the breed originated in Tasmania as a result of crosses with breeds hailing from Europe, and that the Australian terrier shares many traits of the silky terrier. The Tasmanian-born terrier featured a rough coat could control livestock. It served as not only a companion and watch dog, but also a dog that was able to kill snakes and vermin. It is said that ancestors of other terriers, such as the Dandie Dinmont, the Skye, the Scotch, the Manchester, and the Yorkshire terrier were crossed with the Tasmanian dog, which resulted in an impressive looking dog that was also quite useful. According to sources, the first Australian terrier was presented sometime in the mid- to late 1800s, most likely in Melbourne, and it featured a "broken" coat of "blackish blue sheen." It was because of this coat color that the dog was called the blue and tan terrier for a time. This breed also became known by other names, such as the toy terrier, the blue terrier, and eventually, at around the turn of the century, the rough-coated terrier, blue and tan. While this breed was mainly known for the blue and tan colored coat, a red or sandy color coat was also evident during the early period of breed development. Founded in Melbourne in 1887, the Australian Rough-Coated Terrier Club was the first organization to attempt to create the breed standard, and the standard was firmly established by 1896. Shortly thereafter, the Australian terrier gained popularity in British homes as well as in dog shows, and it was in 1925 that it came to the United States. It was recognized by the AKC in 1960.
Size and Appearance of the Australian Terrier Breed
Small yet sturdy, the Australian terrier is longer than it is tall. The front legs are straight and parallel with medium, round bone. The small front feet are catlike with arched toes and strong pads. The short nails are black and strong. The well-muscled upper and lower thighs make up the strong hindquarters. The long head features small dark eyes that offer a keen and intelligent expression. The ears are small, pointed, and stand erect. The strong muzzle features powerful jaws with teeth that meet in a scissors bite. The nose is black. The long, slightly-arched neck is strong, and it blends nicely into the shoulders. The tail is carried erect and set on high, and it is usually docked in proportion to the size of the dog. The double coat of this breed consists of a harsh, straight outer coat and a soft, short under coat. A protective ruff can be found around the neck, and a topknot covers just the top of the head. The coat colors of the Australian terrier include: blue and tan (with tan markings found on the face, ears, underbody, lower legs and feet), as well as solid sandy and solid red colors. The gait of this breed is best described as ground-covering.
Australian Terrier Temperament
Even though it is full of character and energy, the Australian terrier is considered to be one of the quieter terriers. It is an adventurous, intelligent dog that is usually very eager to please its owner, making it an obedient breed. This dog generally gets along well with other pets in the household, including other dogs. Outside, it may chase small animals, so it should be kept in a safe area at all times. This breed is usually reserved with strangers. A loyal breed, the Australian terrier is affectionate with its family, and it can be quite protective. It does best with older children, as it doesn't take well to teasing. This dog tends to dig. Strict training from the beginning is necessary to prevent this breed from following its own rules.
Australian Terrier Recommended Maintenance
Overall, the wiry coat of the Australian terrier is quite easy to maintain. Weekly combing is suggested, and stripping of dead hairs should be done about twice a year. Trimming around the feet is also recommended. Brush the soft undercoat gently. This will stimulate the natural oils to give the coat a glossy finish. Bathe only when necessary - more often will result in a lank-looking coat. Be sure to brush the coat while it dries. Trimming around the eyes and ears with blunt-nosed scissors is suggested if the hair gets too long. Clip the nails on a regular basis. The Australian terrier is said to shed little or no hair. An active breed, the Australian terrier must be provided with daily exercise including a long walk or an energetic game. If let off the leash, be sure this dog is in a safe or fenced in area. This breed is considered to be a good house dog, and it enjoys spending time with its family. It will do okay in an apartment dwelling as long as sufficient exercise and a moderate fenced in yard is provided.
Australian Terrier Health
Life span: 12-14 years
Major concerns: none
Minor concerns: none
Occasionally seen: Legg-Perthes, patellar luxation, diabetes
Suggested tests: none
