Origin

The Australian terrier was created in Australia and this is one of the smallest terriers. They were used for a multiple purposes. They were used as watch dogs, and hunters. they are also very good companions. They were first recognized as Australian rough coated terriers in 1868. This breed was the result of mixing many breeds like cairn, Irish, Norwich etc.

General Description

The Australian terrier is one of the smallest breed amongst the terriers. They are small built. They are so small built that it looks like, their body is a bit longer than their tail. Australian terrier is bulky and small in structure. They have short legs, a long head, beautiful dark eyes, erect ears, sharp teeth and docked tail facing up. The Australian terrier has a weather resistant coat about 2-3 inches long. It is found in various colours like, solid red, sandy, dark etc.

Character

The Australian terriers have a true terrier like nature. They are strong, alert, proud and very confident. They are brave and pleasant in nature. This breed is very playful and energetic. It is highly intelligent and they are very good companions. They are protective to their families, curious at learning new tricks and they also have a tendency of barking and chasing small animals. A strict training is required for these dogs as they have a bad habit to stick to their stubbornness. Sometimes they may be cautious of strangers but they do not suspect them much. Very mild and good to other animals and children. They have a natural habit of pleasing people and the Australian terriers are really excellent watch dogs.

Temperament

Though this breed is very small in size but it is no less than other breeds in bravery and courage. The Australian terrier is extremely good to their family and is very intelligent. Sometimes they are curious about strangers but that has a limit. They get well with children, other pets and dogs. They do not have the habit of chasing other small outdoor animals like cats, squirrels etc. You should not leave them alone for a long time. Their sharp eyesight and ears make them good watchdogs. They also have a tendency of pleasing their owners and they are not at all difficult to train. They do not bark as loud as other terriers but they love barking and they are great diggers.

Training

It is very easy to train the Australian terrier as they are very keen and fast in learning things. If same training methods are repeated they may get bored. Harsh training methods are not recommended. The Australian shepherd dog should be trained with patience, firmness, fairness etc.

Health

Australian terriers are healthy creatures and they are free from all major diseases. Their average life span is 15+ and average litter rate is 4.