History and Origin:A truly Australian breed originating there and developed from crosses with other terriers brought to Australia by the British in the early 19th century. Breeds used in the development were the Cairn Terrier, Scottish Terrier, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, Manchester Terrier, Irish Terrier and others. . The only true terrier developed outside of the British Isles. With these crosses a typical type of dog emerged and a standard was set for the breed in 1896 and it was admitted into the AKC registry in 1960. The breed was used as a vermin, small animal, and snake hunter as well as a watch dog and sheep herder in the far reaches of Australia.
General Appearance : A small terrier with body longer than height. The body coat is short with longer hair around the neck, forming a ruff and apron on chest. Very sturdy, medium bone, keen expression with dark eyes, prick ears, long neck, and tail may be docked or undocked. The head is long strong and has a top knot of soft hair. Size: about 10-11 inches tall. Weight: about 14- 20 pounds
Coat and Colour: Body coat is harsh and about 2 ½ inches long and under coat is soft. Longer hair forms the ruff around neck and the apron on chest area. Hair is shorter on legs (furnishings) and feet and ears are kept trimmed short. Topknot only on top of skull is fine and soft. Colours are 1.) Blue (dark blue, steel gray or silver with rich tan markings. 2.) Clear solid Red. 3.) Clear sandy. Show dogs are hand stripped every 1-2 weeks. to maintain texture and colour and adequate layers. Pets many be clippered by a groomer every few months. A thorough brushing is all that is required for routine care.
Feeding: Generally good eaters with a good quality kibble for fitness and health.
Training and Obedience: Australian Terriers are quite trainable. They do well in all companion and performance events but may require a bit of imagination when it comes to training. Make it fun and the breed will do well.
Activity: Should never run loose. The instinct to hunt is so strong that he will not stop when called when on the chase of a small animal or cat. Excellent jumpers, and natural watchdogs. High energy level and do not do well left outside or confined in a run alone. They like to dig.
Temperament: Very social and love to be with their family. Good with children and seniors. Like many terriers, they may be aggressive with other dogs.
