High-spirited and active, the Australian Terrier is one of the smallest terrier breeds with a unique appearance and pleasing personality. Developed in Australia, they have their roots in Great Britain since they were descendants of the rough-coated terrier types. Their longish appearance, oval-shaped eyes, erect ears, and a high set tail give them a fierce yet adorable look.
The need for an out and out, working dog, agile and quick on its toes that could accompany its master even in the most challenging terrain lead to this breed’s development. It has maintained its working lineage even in the present times, emerging as a loyal, watch and guard dog. At the same time, it is a people-oriented breed, excelling as faithful companions.
Your kid would find it as his perfect playmate; however, for little ones, do supervise their interaction to avoid any untoward incidents. Its soothing, comforting nature has made it a great therapy dog that assists the elderly and the handicapped.
The breed’s development began in Australia
It gained official recognition
Its initial name of Rough Coated Terrier finally changed to Australian Terrier
Exhibited in dog shows at Melbourne and Great Britain
Recognized and granted breed status by the Kennel Club (UK)
The Aussies were brought to the United States
Formation of the Australian Terrier Club of America
Obtained AKC’s recognition
Acknowledged and recognized by the United Kennel Club of the United States
The Australian Terrier Club of America became AKC’s member club
Active and high on energy, your Aussie cannot withstand long spans of boredom. So, regular exercise comprising brisk walks 2-3 times a day, and sufficient playtime indoor or outdoor would help to channelize its energy positively.
Ensure to make your Aussie play within a fenced yard or garden, or be on a leash during a jog or walk since like all terriers, they too would not leave a chance to get after smaller pets.
The Aussie has a weatherproof double coat, harsh, straight outer coat, and short, soft undercoat. You would not need to work too hard to groom it as its coat texture help repelling the mud and dirt with ease.
Brush it once a week to maintain the shine and shape of the coat. Take care to pluck the long hairs growing in between and at the front of its eyes as it could irritate your dog if it gets too long.
Though the hair can be plucked manually or with tweezers, a professional groomer would perhaps do it with ease. Bathe it with a vet-approved shampoo when the need arises. Do not miss out on trimming its nails, brushing its teeth, and cleaning its eyes and ears regularly to keep infections at bay.
Homemade or store-bought, the Aussie’s food should be high in protein and other essential nutrients. They eat enthusiastically but do not overeat, yet ensure not to stuff them with too many treats lest they could get obese. When buying dry dog food for the Australian Terrier, you may go for Blue Buffalo Life and Zignature Trout.
The Australian Terrier’s intelligence and loyalty are a boon for training, but its stubborn, willful nature could be a bane. They need a firm taskmaster who could handle them tactfully. Keep the training sessions short as these dogs tend to get bored quickly.
Though social and thriving well with other dogs, two males could face difficulty coexisting and display their unwillingness to share their belongings or master’s affection. Training the Aussie puppies on socialization could help to change their behavior eventually as they grow, but the problem may not be completely eliminated.
To keep their terrier-like aggression in check, make the Aussies obedient by teaching them to follow commands like “Stay”, or “Stop” right from the beginning.
Crate training would help them overcome their separation anxiety gradually. However, that does not mean that they should be kept all by themselves for prolonged periods.
Teaching them to wear a leash is another task you should keep in mind if you do not want them to chase rabbits, or hamsters at the slightest available opportunity.
