The Australian Terrier is one of the most excellent versatile home pets a family might possess. Yet will bark incessantly upon approaching strangers - making them an outstanding watchdog,they are caring and affectionate, playful and friendly. The Aussie Terrier is highly adaptable to training and can be taught a variety of tricks with very little effort. As one of the most obedient members of the Terrier Group these dogs are quite clever. While quite friendly with other dogs and pets, they may be shy or restrained with unfamiliar persons.
Origins of The Australian Terrier
This breed, formally known as the Australian Terrier, dates back to the early eighteenth century in the Australia. The breed originated in Tasmania and is one of the more dimunitive working terriers. The ancestors of the breed can be traced back to Europe with the Silky Terrier being a prominent member of the group. The terriers which originated in Tasmania served several purposes such as eliminating vermin and herding livestock in addition to being an effective guard dog. The Manchester, Skye, Scotch, Dandie Dinmont, and the Yorkshire Terrier - this root stock was crossed with a variety of other breeds. It also had a striking appearance,this new breed was not only as useful as its forebears. It is now called the Australian Terrier, after several name changes. The Australian Terrier has also been referred to as a Toy Terrier, Blue and tan Terrier and a Blue Terrier throughout its history.
Upkeep Requirements For The Australian Terrier
Owning an Australian Terrier is all about the pampering. In 1925 it made its way to the United States and gained AKC recognition in 1960. Spending time with the family is one of this breeds greatest benefits, they in fact thrive on human contact. Despite it's size this terrier requires plentiful activity including running, walking and backyard play on a daily basis. These dogs are devoted family members who thrive in moderate climates with indoor accomodatons. The Australian Terrier is an excellent companion dog as well as guard dog. Its wiry coat calls for brushing to get rid of free or dead hairs, the breed also needs a bit of trimming around the feet. Normally, healthy Australian Terriers live somewhere in the twelve to fourteen year range. No significant health issues are prevalent in the breed. Diabetes and patellar luxation are some of the minor health problems that can be resolved. Cruciate ligament rupture,and rarely seen are seizures, Legg-Perthes. To check for future disease,there are no tests recommended by veterinarians.
The Australian Terrier is a working terrier with a compact, and small but sturdy body. His body is considerably longer than it is tall. The ears are pricked with no tendency to flare off the skull and the tail is docked. The Australian Terrier is a loyal and devoted dog that is hardy, smart, courageous, always busy, with keen senses.
He is extremely affectionate with his owners and is usually reserved with strangers. This breed is spirited, easy-going but purposeful, and makes a great watchdog. His alertness combined with speed makes him an excellent ratter. He loves to please and do well at obedience work.
On the other hand, because of his terrier instinct, he can be stubborn and challenging to train. His attention is easily diverted by distractions, especially by a small animal or a person wandering into his territory. He responds well to early, firm, and precise training methods.
Roughhousing could encourage a warning bite and should not be permitted. Spoiling this breed encourages a bossy and stubborn behavior because, like most dogs, he will interpret spoiling as recognition of his dominance.
He has a tendency to bark or dig incessantly if left alone for too long. The Australian Terrier has a high prey drive toward small animals such as cats and rabbits. He has no serious health problems and should live a happy 14 years.
Size: The Australian Terrier stands 10-11in at the shoulder and weighs between 10 and 18lb.
History and origin: The Australian Terrier was first used in 19th century Australia as a ratter, snake killer, and watchdog. It is suggested that this breed was developed from the progeny of a female Yorkshire Terrier smuggled aboard a sailing ship and mated to a dog resembling a Cairn Terrier.
He was known by various names until 1889, when a club was formed in Melbourne to foster the breed.
Feeding: Recommended feeding for the Australian Terrier is about 1.5 cans of high-quality meat product (13.3oz size) with biscuit added in similar amount or 1 1.5 cupfuls of a complete dry food.
Fat is an essential ingredient in order for the dog to maintain a healthy coat; if his meal has a low fat content, add a teaspoon of corn oil to his daily serving.
Exercise: An ideal place for this busy and active breed is a fenced-in yard with plenty of space for him to run around. On the other hand, he can adapt to apartment living provided he is walked several times a day.
Grooming: This breed has a weather-resistant coat that is hard and straight with a softer undercoat. Shedding is minimal, as is the level of maintenance. Regular grooming with a bristle brush will stimulate the skin and encourage a good coat growth.
Both Andrew Mills & Daniel Millions are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Daniel Millions has sinced written about articles on various topics from Lose Weight, Cars and Writing. The Internet's most trusted pet and information resource.. Daniel Millions's top article generates over 301000 views. to your Favourites.