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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Australian Terrier
The "hard bitten" and "rugged" looking Australian Terrier is one of the smallest
of the terrier breeds. They can be either black/tan or blue/tan. The Aussie has
erect ears that are v-shaped and stand erect. It has a long head and a black nose
that has a v-shaped space above it. The eyes are sparkling, dark and beg for attention.
The teeth should meet in a scissor-like bite. The body is slightly longer than it
is tall, and the topline is level. This breed has a strong chest that is slightly
wide and deep. The paws are small and cat-like. The weatherproof coat has a rough
texture and is about two to three inches in length. The Aussie has a topknot between
the ears. The docked tail stands erect. The apron and the ruff are lighter and have
a finer texture than the rest of the coat. Dewclaws should be removed when Aussies
are a few days old. Coat colors include blue and tan, red or sandy.
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Temperament
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The Aussie is eager to please and is an excellent choice for children, the elderly
or the handicapped. He is all terrier, with the inborn confidence and spirit of
his type. He tends to be quiet and affectionate, making it a fine house dog.
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Height, Weight
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Height: 9-11" ; Weight: 9-14 lbs.
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Health Problems
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The most common health problems associated with this breed is diabetes, dermatitis,
and luxating patella. This dog lives to be quite old.
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Living Conditions
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The Aussie can live very well in an apartment. It will do fine without a yard if
it is taken on walks on a leash. They should be on a leash at all times as they
tend to chase.
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Exercise
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This breed is happy with a little or a lot of exercise.
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Life Expectancy
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15 or more years
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Grooming
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This breed does not need excessive grooming. A brushing, several times a week, will
bring its coat to a high gloss and shine. Be sure to trim around the eyes and inside
the ears. This breed should be plucked every three months and their nails should
be trimmed. This terrier does not shed much.
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Origin
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The Australian Terrier was bred to be one of the smallest working Terriers. Records
show that they are likely descendents of the Scottie (or the Cairn) for the hard
coat and short legs and with the Skye, strengthening the gene for the shortness
of the legs and body length. Early Aussies were welcomed for their rabbit and snake
killing abilities. They would face the snake, leap high in the air, turning around
in the air and land behind the snake. The Aussie would grab the slithering foe at
the back of the head and kill it. They are recognized by the AKC and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC and UKC Terrier
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