Short in stature but brims with personality ! Australian Terrier is a lively and spirited companion. As its name suggests, this terrier originated in Australia during the 1800s, born from the cross-breeding of several small terrier breeds from England, including the Cairn, Skye, and Yorkshire Terriers. The goal of this breeding was to create a dog with the agility and tenacity to assist Australian ranchers and farmers in keeping their properties free from rodents and other predators.
By the 1850s, these dogs had established their own distinct identity as the Australian Terrier. Notably, it became the first native breed to gain official recognition in Australia, the “land down under.” The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized this breed in 1960.
Caring for an Australian Terrier
An adult Australian Terrier stands 10–11 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 15–20 pounds. They are adaptable to various environments provided that they could meet their needs for companionship, training, and exercise adequately. They seemed to have initially been bred to hunt rodents. Hence, they are not content to be couch potatoes all day. These dogs are smaller in size. Therefore, it becomes an ideal breed for apartment lifestyle. Yet, you have to ensure that they receive sufficient exercise and mental stimulation in a demarcated environment such as an apartment.
What are their Health concerns
Generally, Australian Terriers are healthy dogs with an average lifespan of 11–15 years. While they are not prone to excessive health problems, a few joint-related issues can sometimes arise within the breed.
- Luxating Patella: Similar to many other small-breed dogs, Australian Terriers can experience a dislocated kneecap, known as luxating patella. This condition may manifest as a limp, a bow legged stance, or a cracking sound from the knee joint when flexed. Vets treat this condition based on its severity. It may include anti-inflammatory medications, weight management, exercise restriction, or surgical correction in severe cases.
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease causes the hip joint to disintegrate and become inflamed, resulting in pain when the affected limb is moved. This condition typically presents in Australian Terrier puppies before they are 1 year old.Despite rest and cold therapy can alleviate some of the pain and swelling, surgery is the only way to correct the condition. With surgical intervention and rehabilitation exercises, you can restore the dog’s quality of life with minimal long-term effects.
How to Feed an Australian Terrier
Australian Terriers should be fed a high-quality commercial dog food that meets the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). If you are unsure which food to choose, your veterinarian can help you select the best option for your dog.
For adult Australian Terriers, It is recommended to feed two measured meals per day. Australian Terrier puppies, on the other hand, may require three meals a day to support their rapid growth and nutritional needs. Each meal should consist of a measured amount of kibble or canned wet food appropriate for their life stage (puppy, adult, or senior).
You could give treats throughout the day, but have to be cautious not to overfeed your dog, which could lead to excessive calorie intake. Consider offering whole-food treats, such as small pieces of apples or carrots, as a healthier alternative to commercial dog treats.
How Much to Feed an Australian Terrier
Your dog food package should include feeding guidelines based on your dog’s weight. You can follow these recommendations, but it’s always wise to consult your veterinarian for guidance that matches to your specific Australian Terrier.
If you notice any sudden changes in your dog’s weight or require more specific dietary advice, consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations.
Nutritional Tips for Australian Terriers
Given that Australian Terriers are somewhat prone to joint problems, your vet may suggest a joint supplement or a diet focused on joint health. However, a dog that is already on an AAFCO-approved diet typically receives all the necessary nutrients without requiring additional supplementation.

Australian Terrier Personality and Temperament
The Australian Terrier is known for its self-assured and confident temperament. Like any dog breed, Australian Terriers need proper socialization and training to feel comfortable in new situations.
Breeders emphasize that these dogs thrive on forming close bonds with their human companions, making them ill-suited for prolonged isolation. Their high energy levels also make them excellent companions for children.
Australian Terrier Behavior
An alert and vigilant companion, the Australian Terrier will not hesitate to bark at strangers or unfamiliar noises. While you shouldn’t expect them to be silent sentries, consistent training can help manage and reduce excessive barking.
Another common behavior in the breed is digging. Bred to track and capture small prey underground, Australian Terriers naturally enjoy digging in the yard or garden. They may engage in this activity out of boredom when left unattended or because they detect a burrowing animal.
If your dog repeatedly digs in the same area, you can discourage the behavior by adding rocks or chicken wire. Alternatively, you can designate a specific area for digging to satisfy your dog’s natural instinct.
Given their strong prey drive, Australian Terriers should not be trusted off-leash or in unfenced areas. However, their natural skills make them excellent candidates for scent work or tracking competitions. They also excel in obedience and agility, thanks to their strong desire to work alongside their human handlers.
Australian Terrier Training

Like all dog breeds, Australian Terriers respond best to positive reinforcement-based training. Their intelligence and energy make them excellent training pupils,.Especially when training is presented as a game they showcase their smartness and intelligence.You have to socialize the Terrier as soon as you bring him home. Your veterinarian can recommend appropriate socialization activities to help your puppy adjust.
Fun Activities for Australian Terriers
- Earthdog Trials
- Agility Courses
- Neighborhood Walks
- Nose Work
- Interactive Playtime
- Obedience Training
- Rally Competitions
How To Groom An Australian Terrier
Australian Terriers have a double coat that comes in blue and tan, solid sandy, or solid red. Their coarse outer coat is 2–3 inches long. Hence they need relatively less grooming. In terms of skin care, you should not bath this breed frequently. It can cause their skin to become overly dry and flaky. A bath every few months or whenever the dog becomes especially dirty is usually sufficient. Consult your veterinarian for the best bathing routine for your dog.
An Australian Terrier’s coat does not require professional grooming to maintain its shape and cleanliness. Instead, regular weekly brushing is sufficient to remove tangles, debris, and prevent matting of the undercoat. Australian Terriers do not require extensive eye care, yet, you should regularly check your dog’s eyes for unusual discharge or other changes. Trim any soft, fine hair around the eyes to prevent irritation. Keep the hair on your Australian Terrier’s ears trimmed short, and inspect the ears regularly for excessive wax buildup, odors, or signs of infection. Clean the ears occasionally with a veterinary-recommended cleaner to remove wax and debris.
In conclusion, Australian Terrier is such a amazing dog to raise for companionship and to witness their love , affection and loyalty. Unlike other breeds their grooming seems to be less complicated. So, Have an Australian Terrier by yourself, to witness the significance of Australian Terriers !