Australian Terrier Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Australian Terrier is one of the smallest working terriers, developed in colonial Australia to control rats and snakes and to guard homes. It combines a sturdy, tough body with a cheerful, affectionate temperament.

Origins and appearance

The breed arose in the nineteenth century from British terriers brought to Australia, including Cairn, Dandie Dinmont, Skye, Yorkshire and Irish Terriers. Settlers wanted a hardy dog for farms and mining towns. Australian Terriers are low-set and sturdy, with a long head, small erect ears, a harsh, straight coat with a soft ruff and a docked or natural tail. Colors are blue and tan, sandy or red.

Temperament

They are bright, courageous and affectionate. They bond closely with family and enjoy involvement. They are alert watchdogs and may bark at unfamiliar noises. They can be bossy with other dogs and may chase small animals. They are generally good with children when socialized and treated kindly.

Exercise

Daily needs are around forty-five minutes to an hour. They enjoy walks, play, agility and earthdog trials. Provide a secure yard, since they may dig and escape. Use a leash in open areas. See recall training guide.

Training

They are intelligent and eager to learn, though independent. Short, varied sessions with rewards work well. House training is usually easy. Early socialization reduces dog-directed bossiness.

Coat and grooming

The weather-resistant coat needs brushing weekly and hand-stripping or trimming twice a year. See wire coat dog grooming guide. Bathe sparingly, trim nails and clean ears. Brush teeth often.

Health considerations

The breed is generally healthy, but topics include:

• Diabetes. See dog diabetes
• Luxating patella and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. See luxating patella in dogs
• Hypothyroidism. See hypothyroidism in dogs
• Allergies. See dog skin allergies
• Cruciate ligament injuries
• Dental disease

Living with an Australian Terrier

They adapt to houses and apartments, but need exercise and secure fencing. They are often good travelers and enjoy family outings.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are playful and bold. Socialize them to dogs and people, use a crate, provide chew toys and teach basic cues. Feed measured meals to keep weight lean. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Budget for grooming, regular vet visits and a health fund, including diabetes monitoring if needed. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

Australian Terriers handle heat and cold reasonably but benefit from shade and water in summer and a dry-off after wet walks. They travel well and adapt to new surroundings with a familiar blanket.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include underexercising, skipping coat care and allowing barking to become habit. Avoid unsupervised time with small pets.

Questions to ask a breeder or rescue

Ask about diabetes in the line, patella and thyroid testing and the parents' temperaments. Ask how puppies are socialized.

Is it the right breed for you?

An Australian Terrier suits active people who want a friendly, small terrier and accept some barking and digging. It may not suit those wanting a quiet pet. For a similar breed, see the Silky Terrier.

Behavior and daily management

Australian Terriers are most content with a clear routine and a job. Short training sessions, scent games and a daily walk cover most needs. Give them a digging spot, use baby gates to manage pets and teach calm greetings, since their enthusiasm can turn into jumping. Consistency from every family member keeps their clever, bossy side in check.

The takeaway

Australian Terriers are tough, loyal and lively, and they need exercise, training and regular grooming.