Australian Terrier

14-18 lbs
10-11"
Australia
The Australian Terrier was one of the first breeds developed and recognized by kennel clubs in Australia. They are known as the national Terrier of Australia and are considered one of the smallest working Terrier breeds. It has been suggested that this spunky little dog originates from Tasmania and is a result of breeds from Europe. They have a wiry coat with a short, soft undercoat and harsh, straight outer coat which can range anywhere from blue and tan, to sandy, to red variations. This canine is a working companion with a lot of spirit. An affectionate dog, they tend to want to spend as much time with you as possible and may become anxious if left alone for long periods of time. Maintaining this pup’s coat is straightforward. Weekly brushing is a must and stripping of the dead coat is recommended every few months. The Australian Terrier is known as one of the quieter Terriers from the group.
purpose Purpose
Hunting Vermin, Watchdog, Companion
history Date of Origin
1800s
ancestry Ancestry
Terriers, Tasmanian Dog

Australian Terrier Health

Sketch of Australian Terrier
Average Size
Male Australian Terrier size stats
Height: 10-11 inches Weight: 15-20 lbs
Female Australian Terrier size stats
Height: 10-11 inches Weight: 14-18 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Diabetes
  • Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Minor Concerns
  • None
Occasional Tests
  • Blood Test
  • X-Rays

Australian Terrier Breed History

The Australian Terrier is said to have originated from Tasmania after being bred to different breeds in Europe. Given the named since they were the first breed to have been developed in Australia, this attractive dog is known as the country's national breed. Originally, they were known by a variety of names: Toy, Blue, and the Rough-coated Terrier. They were first exhibited as the “broken-coated terrier of blackish blue sheen”. In the beginning, this courageous pup was known for their tan and blue variations. The sandy and red markings were not developed until later, although they would show up in earlier developments. They originated back in the 1800s when they were first presented officially. They were developed from a combination of the following breeds: Dandie Dinmont, Skye, Scottish, Manchester, and Yorkshire Terriers. The original purpose of this eager dog was to kill snakes and vermin, as well as serve as a faithful companion dog. The Australian Terrier Club was founded in 1887 in Melbourne. During this year, The Australian Rough-Coated Terrier Club was the first organization to attempt to develop this breed to their standard. It was not until 1896 that the standard was officially established. Popular within British households in addition to the show ring, in 1925, the breed made their first appearance in the United States. In 1960, they were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club. 

Australian Terrier Breed Appearance

The Australian Terrier is known as a small, but sturdy, medium-boned dog. Their size consists of being longer in proportion compared to their height. With pricked ears and a docked tail, this dog has front legs that are straight and parallel to each other. The small front feet contain arched toes and sturdy pads with nails that are black and strong. The upper and lower thighs are muscular and make up strong hindquarters. Perky and alert, they have a long head with small, dark brown eyes. The ears are small and pointed, which remain erect. The dog has a strong muzzle with powerful jaws; the standard nose color is black. The standard eye color is brown and their expression is always alert, which may be a nod to their constant vigilance as a working dog. The Australian Terrier is seen in several different colors such as blue and tan, sandy, or red. An attractive dog, they also have a ruff near the chest, with a medium-length coat that must be maintained with grooming. They also have a double coat with a soft undercoat and 2.5 inches of guards which allow protection from extreme weather, making the coat feel harsh to the touch. Around the muzzle, lower legs, and feet areas, the fur is of a short length. This cute pup maintains an expression of intelligence with an proud stance.

Eye Color Possibilities
brown Australian Terrier eyes
Brown
Nose Color Possibilities
black Australian Terrier nose
Black
Coat Color Possibilities
red Australian Terrier coat
Red
blue Australian Terrier coat
Blue
cream Australian Terrier coat
Cream
Coat Length
coat
Short Medium Long
Coat Density
coat density
pin
Sparse Normal Dense
Coat Texture
coat texture
Australian Terrier wiry coat texture
Straight Wiry Wavy Curly Corded

Australian Terrier Breed Maintenance

The Australian Terrier has a harsh, wiry coat allowing for easy maintenance. This harsh coat resists matting and repels dirt. Brushing and combing should be completed weekly in order to prevent kinks. Brushing regularly also helps reduce shedding. Stripping of dead hair should be completed every 6 to 8 weeks. It is recommended to maintain hygiene by bathing the dog at least once every 4 weeks. Overbathing will result in a dull-looking coat. The undercoat should be brushed gently in order to stimulate oils for a glossy finish. If hair grows too long around the eyes and ears, trimming is suggested to maintain a smart looking appearance. As with most dogs, the nails should be trimmed every 3 to 4 weeks to avoid tears resulting from overgrowth. Ears should be checked weekly to prevent ear wax buildup which can lead to infection. The Australian Terrier is a relatively clean dog and leaves little to no smell. 

Brushes for Australian Terrier
Slicker Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Comb
Scissors
Scissors
Nail Clipper
Nail Clipper
Brushing Frequency
fur daily fur weekly fur monthly
Australian Terrier requires weekly brushing
Daily Weekly Monthly

Australian Terrier Temperament

A dog that craves company by nature, they have a spunky personality with a lot of sass that shows in how they interact with people. Known for their cleverness and affection for others, this dog thrives on their independent nature, although they can be stubborn. A canine with medium-level energy, exercise is essential to keep them content and well balanced. The Australian Terrier maintains an alert nature and is described as a spirited dog. Since they were originally bred to hunt and kill vermin, it may be difficult for this hunter to get along with cats and small rodents. With training though, they have been known to adapt to living with other species. They can live with family members or with one person, both options work for them. This pup can be initially shy towards strangers but will warm up to them with time. 

Australian Terrier Activity Requirements

This dog loves to remain active due to their original purpose of hunting vermin. Because of this, it is recommended to provide your furry companion with the daily exercise they require. A four-legged dynamo, they would fare better in a house with an area to run around in, allowing them to remain active. An apartment with a fenced-in yard would also be sufficient if enough activity is provided. They thrive in the presence of company and would love to be around others to maintain happiness. The Australian Terrier is able to adapt to both rural and urban dwellings as long as they are provided with the necessary equipment to maintain an active lifestyle.
Activity Level
low activity medium activity high activity
Low Medium High
Rec. Walk Mileage Per Week
12 miles
walk mileage
Minutes of Activity Per Day
90 minutes
activity minutes

Australian Terrier Food Consumption

Cups Per Day
1 cups
cup per day cost
Daily Cost
$1.00 - $1.00
food bowls daily cost
Monthly Cost
$25.00 - $30.00
food bag monthly cost

Australian Terrier Height & Weight

6 Months
Sketch of Australian Terrier at six months
Male Australian Terrier size stats at six months
Height: 7.0 inches Weight: 7.5 lbs
Female Australian Terrier size stats at six months
Height: 7.0 inches Weight: 7.5 lbs
12 Months
Sketch of Australian Terrier at 12 months
Male Australian Terrier size stats at 12 months
Height: 10.5 inches Weight: 13.0 lbs
Female Australian Terrier size stats at 12 months
Height: 10.5 inches Weight: 13.0 lbs
18 Months
Sketch of Australian Terrier at 18 months
Male Australian Terrier size stats at 18 months
Height: 10.5 inches Weight: 15.0 lbs
Female Australian Terrier size stats at 18 months
Height: 10.5 inches Weight: 15.0 lbs

Top Australian Terrier Breeders

Check out who made our list for the most reputable Australian Terrier breeders of 2024.
Top Australian Terrier breeder Araluen Kennel
Araluen Kennel
Mead, Colorado
Top Australian Terrier breeder Heartland Austrailian Terriers
Heartland Austrailian Terriers
Norman, Oklahoma
Top Australian Terrier breeder Firewalker Australian Terriers
Firewalker Australian Terriers
Gloucester, Virginia
Top Australian Terrier breeder Benayr Australian Terriers
Benayr Australian Terriers
Newport, Washington
Top Australian Terrier breeder Temora Australian Terriers
Temora Australian Terriers
Muskego, Wisconsin
Top Australian Terrier breeder Crestwood Australian Terriers
Crestwood Australian Terriers
Denmark, Wisconsin
Top Australian Terrier breeder Dunham Lake Australian Terriers
Dunham Lake Australian Terriers
Siren, Wisconsin
Top Australian Terrier breeder Redhawk Terriers
Redhawk Terriers
Gillette, Wyoming
Top Australian Terrier breeder Spring Valley Aussies
Spring Valley Aussies
Gravette, Arkansas
Top Australian Terrier breeder Jovi's Australian Terriers
Jovi's Australian Terriers
Desert Hills, Arizona

Australian Terrier Owner Experiences

Bruno
3 Years
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Agility training
Run
Walk
Swim
Funny and clever little dog
9 months, 3 weeks ago
Bruno
3 Years
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Agility training
Run
Walk
Swim
Funny and clever little dog
9 months, 3 weeks ago
Bruno
3 Years
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Agility training
Run
Walk
Swim
Funny and clever little dog
9 months, 3 weeks ago
Bruno
3 Years
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Agility training
Run
Walk
Swim
Funny and clever little dog
9 months, 3 weeks ago
Zoey Jane Rowe
18 Months
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I never had one till Zoey Jane and we all love her so much. Zoey is crazy about her family. She is the best with kids..
2 years ago
4 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking of course
he was very active, pull the collar a lot, running
looks around for action squirrels, birds humans
Jumped to me when I got in
He was gentle and sweet, but also very mature, didn't get scare when I came in, just waging and happy cause he knew he was going for a walk. during, the first 15min he pulled a lot looking for spots to sniff, but after he just gets tired and start walking with you. Wasn't aggressive with other dogs or people, he just didn't care was to busy sniffing. doesn't get scare easily like other breeds. I enjoy walking this guy.
6 years, 11 months ago
10 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
chasing
Walks
lounging
He was an old guy saved from being put down because of his health issues. He couldn't hold his bladder and wore a diaper. Despite his bladder issue he was so full of life and happy to be a part of. Very loving and enjoyed my company, very much a lap dog. He got along with other small dogs. Naturally as a small dog he barks a bit when you first see him or theres some action outside. He loved to go on walks and lead the pack, not a very scared little dog, lots of tenacity! I appreciate this breeds spunk and personality!
6 years, 11 months ago
Book me a walkiee?
Pweeeze!
Sketch of smiling australian shepherd