Terrier Group
Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is Australia’s first native breed to be recognised — a compact, spirited little dog developed from British terriers to produce …
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Size
Small
🐾
Coat
Rough, Harsh
⚡
Energy
High
✂️
Groom Every
8–10 weeks
Character
What is the Australian Terrier like?
The Australian Terrier is Australia’s first native breed to be recognised — a compact, spirited little dog developed from British terriers to produce a hardy, versatile working terrier. Used to control rats and snakes and as farm watchdogs, Australian Terriers are bold, loyal, and entertaining. They possess all the classic terrier character traits: determination, courage, and independence, wrapped up in a rough-coated package. They are affectionate with their family while maintaining sharp alertness to their surroundings.
Social Skills
Australian Terrier with Other Dogs
Australian Terriers are typically friendly with people but can be assertive with other dogs, particularly of the same sex. Their prey drive makes them unreliable with small animals. They are good with children who treat them respectfully. Early socialisation develops appropriate social responses.
Grooming Guide
How to Groom a Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier’s rough, harsh double coat requires moderate maintenance. Brushing two to three times weekly keeps the coat tidy. Their outer coat should ideally be hand stripped twice yearly to maintain correct harsh texture. Professional grooming every eight to ten weeks for a bath, trim, nail clip, and ear clean maintains appearance.
Free & Personalised
Get a personalised groom plan for your Australian Terrier
Tell us about your dog and our AI builds a grooming plan — including personalised Magnesium treatment recommendations.
Pros
- ✓Loyal and entertaining
- ✓Alert watchdog
- ✓Relatively low shedding
- ✓Adaptable to apartment living
- ✓Hardy constitution
- ✓Long lifespan
Cons
- !Strong prey drive
- !Assertive with other dogs
- !Stubborn terrier streak
- !Vocal barkers
- !Need hand stripping for correct coat
- !Need significant mental stimulation