Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is a small dog breed originating from Australia. The Australian Terrier comes from Australia, and typically weighs Males. Individual Australian Terriers vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Australia
- Weight
- Males
- Height
- Males
About the Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is a small dog breed originating from Australia. Males weigh 7-8 kg and stand 23-33 cm tall.
Overview
The Australian Terrier is a small breed of dog of the terrier type . The breed was developed in Australia, although the ancestral types of dogs from which the breed descends were from Great Britain .
Health
The Australian Terrier is known to be susceptible to the auto-immune disease Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada-like syndrome . A 2002 survey by the Australian Terrier Club of America found that the top three causes of death were old age (17%), cancer (15%), and diabetes (13%). The most common conditions affecting dogs were diabetes mellitus (10%), luxating patella (9%), ear infections (5%), cataracts (5%), flea allergy dermatitis (5%), ruptured cranial cruciate ligament (4%), and hypothyroidism (4%).
History
The Australian Terrier is descended from the rough coated type terriers brought from Great Britain to Australia in the early 19th century. The ancestral types of all of these breeds were kept to eradicate mice and rats. The Australian Terrier shares ancestors with the Cairn Terrier , Shorthaired Skye Terrier , and the Dandie Dinmont Terrier ; Yorkshire Terriers and Irish Terriers were also crossed into the dog during the breed''s development. Development of the breed began in Australia about 1820, and the dogs were at first called the Rough Coated Terrier. The breed was officially recognised in 1850, and later renamed as the Australian Terrier in 1892. The Australian Terrier was shown at a dog show for the first time in 1906 in Melbourne , and was also shown in Great Britain about the same time.
Appearance
The Australian Terrier is a small dog with short legs, weighing around 6.5 kilograms (14 lb) and standing about 25 centimetres (9.8 in) at the withers , with a medium length shaggy harsh double coat that is not normally trimmed. Fur is shorter on the muzzle, lower legs, and feet, and there is a ruff around the neck. The coat colours are blue or silver and tan with a lighter coloured topknot, and with markings on face, ears, body and legs of a colour described in the breed standard as "tan, never sandy", or a solid red with a sandy variation. The tail was traditionally docked , in order to protect the dog from spinal injury while working and hunting in the field.
Temperament
The breed standard describes the ideal Australian Terrier temperament as spirited, alert, "with the natural aggressiveness of a ratter and hedge hunter". The Australian Terrier ranks 34th in Stanley Coren ''s The Intelligence of Dogs , being of above average "Working and Obedience" intelligence, indicating good trainability.
Life expectancy
Life expectancy in the 2002 American survey was 11 years. Bitches lived roughly a year longer than dogs. A survey in the UK of breed club members found the Australian Terrier to have a median life expectancy of just above 12 years.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Australian Terrier?
The Australian Terrier is a small breed of dog, weighing between 6-11 pounds and standing 10-11 inches tall. They have a short, dense coat that requires regular grooming. They are known for their friendly, outgoing personalities and are often described as energetic and lively.
Is the Australian Terrier a good family dog?
Australian Terriers can make good family dogs for families with older children, as they are generally gentle and affectionate. However, they can be wary of strangers and may require time to warm up to new people. Early socialization and training are essential for any family dog.
What health problems do Australian Terriers have?
Australian Terriers are susceptible to certain health issues, including Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada-like syndrome, diabetes mellitus, and luxating patellas. A 2002 survey found that the top causes of death in Australian Terriers were old age, cancer, and diabetes. Regular veterinary care and monitoring can help identify potential health issues early on.
How much does an Australian Terrier puppy cost?
The cost of an Australian Terrier puppy can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. On average, a puppy can cost between $800-$1,200. It's essential to research reputable breeders and consider the costs of spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and microchipping.
Where do Australian Terriers come from?
The Australian Terrier comes from Australia. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Australian Terrier, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.