Australian Terrier breed guide

Australian Terriers are alert watchdogs, said to be quick studies in training and eager to play. They are independent thinkers, so a firm, consistent approach is necessary and sessions run short because they are easily bored with routine.

Life in Australia's remote regions forged a tight bond between the dogs and their people. They proved cuddly, eternally devoted pets when the day's work was done.

The Australian Terrier lives 11 to 15 years. AKC calls it a sturdy breed with few health problems and breeders test for luxating patella and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, a malformation of the hip joint that appears early and that surgery can correct.

Itchy skin conditions occur in some dogs, so flea control is essential.

The harsh weatherproof double coat repels dirt and mud and is easy to maintain: a quick weekly brushing is usually enough, with a bath only when needed. Long hairs in front of and between the eyes can irritate them and fingers or tweezers pluck them easily.

True terriers are high energy, so daily play sessions indoors or out keep the dog well adjusted. Sessions must take place in a securely fenced yard and on walks or hikes an Australian Terrier must be on a leash.

Nineteenth century British settlers brought several breeds of working terrier to Australia and the Australian Terrier is said to be the result of interbreeding the Cairn, Dandie Dinmont, Norwich, Scottish Terrier, Skye and Yorkshire terriers.

Bred as fearless all-purpose exterminators of small mammals and snakes, it used what a breed historian calls a leap-twist-and-pounce approach on snakes.