Group 2 - TERRIERS

Brief History
Australia’s own terrier breed evolved from a variety of British Terriers that were brought to this country by the early settlers. Affectionately known as the Aussie, he was specifically bred for Australian conditions. This tough little terrier was used for everything from guarding farms and mines, to hunting, to tending the sheep and to killing rats and snakes. Aussies have become popular as a companion because of their loyalty to their owners

Average Life Span
When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime. The average life span is 11 to 16 years.

Temperament
Alert, intelligent, inquisitive and loving

The Australian Terrier is an even-tempered dog, versatile, good company for young and old and he delights in human companionship. Small and tough, he is equally at home on a farm or in a suburban backyard and makes a good house dog. Not a constant barker, the Aussie prefers to bark at something amiss. He is very loyal with a great disposition

General Breed Description
The Aussie is a lowset, little dog but he is sturdy, rugged and active. He is longer in body than he is high.  He has a harsh, straight coat with a ruff at the neck and silky topknot. He can get shaggy. He has prick ears, large teeth and a tail set at twelve o’clock. The Aussie is both a great working terrier and a great family pet, equally at home on the farm or suburban back yard.  The Aussie comes in two colours, blue and tan, or red to sandy

Coat and Care Requirements
The Aussie has a harsh double coat of around 6.35cm in length with a rough around the neck and a soft silky topknot. They do require a brush or comb a couple of times a week and the hair around and under the feet  must be trimmed and nails cut .The Aussie does not need a lot of exercise but does need to be part of the family They need secure fencing and to be walked on a lead in case they find something worth a chase.

Size
Height: Males 25 cms (10ins), Females slightly less.

Weight: Males 6.5kg, Females slightly less.

Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders in is recommended you enquire about breed health and what health testing the breeder does.

Suitability
Aussies are ideal pets for all owners and are great with families. They usually are good with other dogs and cats but being a terrier, not so good with small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs and chooks, which they find very tempting. The Aussie is both a great working terrier and a great family pet, equally at home on the farm or suburban back yard

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard: https://dogsaustralia.org.au/breed/detail/37