Australian Terrier
Updated November 29, 2025
Australian Terrier
Updated November 29, 2025
The Australian Terrier is a plucky and spirited small terrier, originally bred to work in rugged conditions. They are known for being alert, courageous, and self-confident, making them excellent watchdogs. As companions, they are friendly, affectionate, and loyal to their families.
Spirited, Alert, Courageous, Intelligent, Affectionate
15-20 pounds
10-11 inches
11-15 years
Blue and tan, Solid sandy, Solid red
At a Glance
Good with Kids
Jump to Section
About Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is a plucky and spirited small terrier, originally bred to work in rugged conditions. They are known for being alert, courageous, and self-confident, making them excellent watchdogs. As companions, they are friendly, affectionate, and loyal to their families.
What Makes Australian Terriers Special
The diminutive Australian Terrier packs a lot of personality into a small package. They are upbeat, lively, and approach life with the curiosity and grit of a true terrier.
With a keen intelligence sparkling in their dark eyes, they are both amusing and devoted companions, always ready for an adventure.
Australian Terrier History & Origin
The Australian Terrier was the first native breed to be recognized in Australia. It was developed in the early 19th century from various terriers brought to the country by British settlers, including breeds that were forerunners to the Skye Terrier, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, and Yorkshire Terrier. They were bred to be tough, all-purpose exterminators of snakes and rodents on farms and in gold mines.
The breed was developed from terriers imported from Great Britain, such as the Dandie Dinmont, Skye, and Yorkshire Terriers.
The first breed club was established in Australia in 1887.
They were initially known as Rough Coated Terriers.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Australian Terrier in 1960.
The cost of an Australian Terrier puppy from a breeder typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,800. Adoption fees from rescues are generally lower.
Australian Terrier Characteristics
Individual Variation
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Australian Terrier Appearance
The Australian Terrier is a small and sturdy dog, longer than it is tall, with a confident and alert posture.
Their distinctive features include a harsh-textured coat with a soft, silky topknot that contrasts with the rest of the coat, and a keen expression.
Physical Features
Ears
Small, erect, and pointed, set high on the skull.
Eyes
Small, oval, and dark brown, expressing keen intelligence.
Nose
The nose is black.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The body has a medium-length, harsh double coat. There is a ruff around the neck and a soft, silky topknot.
Coat Color
The recognized colors are blue and tan, solid sandy, and solid red. In blue and tan dogs, the tan markings should be as rich as possible.
Tail
The tail is set high and carried erectly.
Australian Terrier Temperament
The Australian Terrier is a plucky, spirited, and lively dog with a great deal of self-confidence and the typical terrier curiosity and grit.
They are intelligent and friendly little dogs, very eager to please, which makes them good at obedience and agility.
As companion dogs, they are friendly and affectionate, forming strong bonds with their families.
They are alert watchdogs and will bark to announce strangers, but are not typically yappy.
True to their terrier nature, they have a strong instinct to chase small animals and love to dig.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Australian Terriers are a generally healthy breed with a lifespan of 11 to 15 years. However, they can be prone to certain genetic health conditions.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular veterinary check-ups, maintaining a healthy weight, proper diet, and screening for common health issues are essential for a long, healthy life.
How to Care for a Australian Terrier
Australian Terriers are adaptable and relatively low-maintenance but require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Their weather-resistant coat needs minimal grooming, and they thrive on companionship.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
Adaptable to apartment living with sufficient daily exercise.
Climate Adaptability
Their coat provides some resilience in the cold, but they are adaptable to various moderate climates.
Apartment Living
Well-suited for apartment life provided they get enough outdoor activity.
Best Suited For
Ideal for active owners or families who enjoy including their dog in daily activities.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early socialization and consistent training are key. Provide plenty of chew toys and structured play.
Senior Care
Monitor for age-related health issues like arthritis and diabetes. Adjust exercise to a comfortable level.
First-Time Owner Tips
A good choice for first-time owners who are prepared for a high-energy dog and can be consistent with training.