Australian Terrier… Everything You Need to Know at a Glance!

Here at IndulgeYourPet, we’ve found that there are generally two “camps” of thought when it comes to owning a “terrier”.  Some folks are going to tell you that “terriers” are the greatest dogs in the world, while others are usually afraid to death of ever owning one!

Which when you really thing about it…

Is probably a good thing because this “fear” ensures that only those “true” terrier people end up adopting them and those who don’t understand the breed or aren’t prepared to put in the “work” to train one to be all that they can be, will simply move on and choose a dog breed that is easier to own!

Because let’s face it…

Any “terrier” regardless of what kind he or she may be can be a challenging dog to own even when they are as cute and adorable as the “pint” size Australian Terrier.

And there lies the problem…

You see, sometimes the Australian Terrier is just too cute to say no too which is why he sometimes ends up in a home that was never prepared to own him.  This is why in this article, we want to discuss some of the pros and cons of owning an Australian Terrier so that if you do decide to purchase an Australian Terrier puppy or better yet adopt an Australian Terrier rescue dog, you won’t be disappointed in your decision six months from now.

So, without further ado, let’s dive right in!

Australian Terrier Fast Facts

Country of Origin:  Australia

Original Purpose:  Hunting small vermin

Height:  10 to 11 inches tall

Weight:  12 to 14 pounds

Dog Breed Classification:  Terrier group

Origin of the Australian Terrier.

Interestingly enough, the Australian Terrier is originally believed to have originated in its earliest form from Tasmania where it’s ancestors were used to hunt out and rid homes and farms of all sorts of vermin including snakes and rodents.  They also functioned very well as “watchdogs” ready to sound the alarm at any moment.

Later…

During the late 1700’s, the breed eventually made its way to Australia where it was “cross-bred” with a whole host of different dog breeds including the:

• Skye Terrier,
• Yorkshire Terrier,
• Staffordshire Terrier,

As well as probably any other “terriers” these original farmers/breeders could get their hands on!

During this time…

Due to the circumstances of earlier settlement life in Australia, these dogs were bred to work as well as to offer companionship to people living under duress out in the bush!

So…

Not much thought was given about the “proper” etiquette of breeding standards.  All these folks cared about was…

“Did the mix produce a good dog?”

That said however…

The Australian Terriers wear one very distinct badge of honor with pride: they are recognized as the first Australian native breed.  And while they were originally called the Australian Rough-Coated Terrier at the time of their recognition back in 1897,  only their name has changed since then.

Characteristics of the Australian Terrier

The Australian Terrier has shaggy and rough outer coat, along with an undercoat is silky soft.  Which might sound like a problem at first because most dogs that have a “double coat” tend to be nightmares when it comes to shedding.

But this isn’t the case…

With Australian Terriers.  In fact, they don’t shed nearly as much as other dogs their size.  And while most pictures that you’ll find will often show the “red” version, Australian Terriers can come in a variety of colors including red, sandy or a combination of blue and tan.

One thing you’ll have…

To keep in mind with this breed is that Australian Terriers are prone to developing ear infections so this will be something that as an owner you’ll want to keep in mind and be sure to frequently check and clean your terrier’s ears.

Personality of the Australian Terrier

Probably the best way to describe an Australian terrier is to think of that one friend of yours who is the life of the party… Now “morph” that person into the shape of an Australian Terrier and there you go!

And what you probably get…

Is a whole lot of fun, mixed in with a bit of mischief.  And like that good friend of yours sometimes it can be a bit much to handle, but if you’re looking for a dog to keep you on your toes, then an Australian Terrier just might be for you!

Though only…

Weighing in at a meager 10-16 pounds, there’s a lot of spunk in this breed.  Sure, they’ll love spending time in your lap, but they’re also going to be constantly vigilant looking for any unusual behavior to bark at and certainly always looking for a bit of fun to be had.

They’re also…

Very smart and are ready to learn just about everything which makes them a bit easier to train than your average terrier.  But since they are in fact a terrier, there’s a good chance that even after he learns what he should or shouldn’t do, he’ll decide for himself what “ought” to be done.

Health Concerns of the Australian Terrier

This is a pretty healthy breed in general, but just like with every breed a lot will depend on your dog’s breeders.

The best way…

That we’ve found to ensure that your Australian Terrier dog that you’re thinking about adopting is healthy is to check if your breeder is registered with the American Kennel Club. So, before you choose to adopt, do some research…  And make sure the breeder can provide you with ample documentation to your Aussie’s lineage.

This will help…

But remember, no matter how careful you are, things can always happen.  And in the case of the Australian Terrier dog breed, even the “best” puppies from the most reputable breeder can develop some health issues later in life.

Health issues such as:

• Legg-Perthes Disease: This is a hip joint problem. Best case scenario, your dog can enter doggie physical therapy and work out the problem. But, it may also require surgery if the disease advances. After surgery your dog will be just as good as new – but your wallet may not be! This surgery can cost up to $6000!
• Patellar Luxation: Another disorder that can impact your pup’s stride, patellar luxation is a kneecap dislocation. This is likely to cause some problems, and if very bad may require surgery (though usually this isn’t necessary). Again, you’ll be out thousands of dollars if you haven’t planned ahead.
• Allergies: Phew!

Finally, a health concern that isn’t too big of a deal. Sure, your dog may be sneezing or even swell up, but once you know your dog’s triggers, it should be fairly easy to manage – if your terrier doesn’t get into something he shouldn’t while you’re not around (which, let’s be honest, is likely with this mischief maker)! The main expenses of this will be before you really know what is wrong with your dog. You will have to treat any allergy attacks and might be asked by your vet to do a whole series of allergy tests to determine the cause. This will probably cost less than $1000.

Now we like to…

Because we here at IndulgeYourPet feel that any new pet owner should take a minute and consider purchasing a pet insurance policy for their new family member.

Now will a pet insurance policy be a good “fit” for everyone?

No, probably not.  But without knowing how much it would cost for you to insure your animal, how will you know for sure?

This is why we’ve written our Best Pet Insurance Company article so that our readers can get a “general” idea on whether or not it makes sense for them to consider getting insured.