Australian Terrier

Though one of the smallest terriers, the rugged Australian Terrier was developed in the harsh conditions of the Australian Outback, where he worked side by side with the pioneers--controlling rats and snakes, alerting humans to intruders, even tending sheep. He's ready for any situation. With that easy self-confidence comes his readiness to enjoy a good friendship.

The Australian Terrier repays your attentions with a steady devotion. Since he considers himself part of the family, the Aussie gets along well with other animals and with children.

He has a double coat: a harsh outer coat and a softer undercoat. The colors are blue and tan, solid sandy, and solid red. The lighter hair on the top of his head stands up in a natural silky brush. He has naturally upstanding ears and a docked tail.

In 1868, the Australian Terrier was the first Australian breed of dog to be officially recognized by that country.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance: A small, sturdy working terrier, possessing a harsh, straight coat with a silky topknot. Expression is keen and intelligent; manner is spirited and self-assured.

Size, Proportion, and Substance: Height--10 to 11 inches at withers.

Fun Facts

So important is this dog's temperament (disposition) to breeders of the Australian Terrier, that they consider shyness or aggression toward people a fault of the breed. These dogs are keen, intelligent, spirited, and self-assured, but never spooky or mean.

Excerpted from The Complete Dog Book For Kids © 1996, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.