Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is one of Australia's earliest native dog breeds, developed in the late nineteenth century from a blend of British terrier breeds including the Cairn, Skye, and Rough Coated Terrier.
Originally bred to work on farms and homesteads, these compact dogs were valued for hunting snakes, rats, and other vermin whilst also serving as vigilant watchdogs and loyal companions.
6-7kg
Weight
Small
Size
12-14yrs
Lifespan
About the Australian Terrier
Standing just 25–26 centimetres tall and weighing 6–7 kilograms, the Australian Terrier is small but sturdy, with a distinctive medium-length rough coat available in blue and tan or sandy red. Its alert, inquisitive expression and confident bearing reflect the self-assured nature typical of the breed. In temperament, this little dog is a real character. Tough and adaptable, it thrives on human companionship and makes an affectionate family pet suitable for both young and old. Its lively, curious nature means it readily investigates anything that catches its interest, and it responds well to consistent, positive training, particularly when given a job to do. The Australian Terrier requires up to an hour of daily exercise and enjoys interactive play and mental stimulation to channel its natural terrier energy. Whilst it sheds moderately, its compact size and even-tempered disposition make it equally at home on a farm or in a suburban garden, provided its active mind remains engaged.
Australian Terrier at a Glance
- Group
- Terrier
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 6–7 kg
- Height
- 25–26 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Medium
- Sheds
- Yes
- Exercise
- Up to 1 hour per day
- Typical price
- £800–£1500
Australian Terrier Temperament
The Australian Terrier is a tough, adaptable and even-tempered little dog that thrives on human companionship. Small in stature but full of character, it is equally at home on a farm or in a suburban garden. It is good company for both young and old, and its lively, affectionate nature makes it a rewarding family pet. The Australian Terrier is alert and curious, with the natural instincts of a working terrier, and will readily investigate anything that catches its interest. Confident and self-reliant, it responds well to consistent, positive training and enjoys having a job to do.
Australian Terrier Lifestyle
The Australian Terrier is one of the breeds that copes well in a flat or apartment and appreciates a small to medium garden to explore. Whether in the city or the countryside, they tend to settle well.
Dog Food for Australian Terrier
Top-rated foods for Small breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Recommended Food for Australian Terrier
Australian Terrier Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Australian Terrier weighing around 7 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£1.68 - £1.79
Per month
£50 - £54
Per year
£613 - £653
Australian Terrier Characteristics
The Australian Terrier is an active breed that needs a lot of exercise and is highly trainable and learns new things fast. They are very patient and gentle with kids, but are fine alone for moderate amounts of time. The coat is reasonably straightforward to keep well-groomed and sheds steadily throughout the year. They are sharp and quick-witted, which is a joy, but means they need keeping mentally occupied.
Australian Terrier Pros & Cons
Pros
- Affectionate and loyal companions with a strong working heritage
- A robust, weather-resistant coat that only needs moderate grooming
- Highly trainable and adapts well to different living environments
- Generally good with children and other pets when properly socialised
Cons
- Can be vocal and needs early training to keep barking under control
- May show wilful or stubborn behaviour if training isn't consistent
- Has a tendency to dig, which can cause issues in gardens and homes
- Rare in the UK, which means longer waiting times and higher prices
