The Australian Terrier was the first native-bred Australian dog to be shown in competition. The breed was also the first to be recognized in other countries. It was created by crossing many Terrier breeds including; Cairn, Norwich , Dandie Dinmont, Irish, Skye, Scottish and probably Yorkshire terriers.

The Australian Terrier is a sturdy, short legged, loveable little dog. They were specifically bred for the rigorous Australian outback conditions and for a variety of task such as watchdog and even as a shepherd, rats and snakes hunter, and companion.

Typical colors are Blue and tan, mixes of brown, silver-black with tan markings, solid sandy, and solid red.

The Australian Terrier is a double weatherproof coat breed. The outer coat is straight, rough or harsh to the touch. The under coat is soft, compact, and short.

The Australian Terrier is proud, fearless, alert and charming, courageous, and highly intelligent. He adapts well to town or country living, all conditions and climates, an excellent choice for a variety of lifestyles. The Australian Terriers tend to have boundless energy, but because of his friendly and affectionate nature he makes an excellent companion for children, elderly or the handicapped.

The Australian Terrier is a healthy breed and has a reputation of longevity, also he’s free of any major hereditary diseases. However, they may suffer from patella luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, diabetes, epilepsy, hot spots and skin eczema, and thyroid disorders. The dense, long and shaggy coat sheds little to no hair and is easy to maintain, simply brush several times a week. As for nails, make sure to clip it regularly.

The training of the Australian Terrier needs to be consistent, firm, and fair because this self-confident dog do not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods, although they learn very quickly, he is very eager to please. Some of the Australian Terrier’s talents are, performing tricks, tracking, watchdogging (he has acute hearing as well as keen eyesight), agility, and obedience.

The Australian Terrier is an adaptable little dog and requires relatively little exercise to keep them physically and mentally fit. He is fairly active indoors and he does well in an apartment dwelling. But it is most happy when able to play and run about in a yard or back garden.