HISTORY AND DESCRIPTION OF THE AUSTRALIAN TERRIER
History of the Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier, or "Aussie", not to be confused with the Australian Silky, known as the Silky Terrier in the United States, the Australian Shepherd or the Australian Cattle Dog, was the first Australian breed of dog to be recognized and shown in Australia. Persistent efforts over the years produced an ideal terrier to suit Australian conditions, a rugged, hard-bitten, fearless dog equally at home indoors or out.
Beginning in Tasmania, the earliest efforts at breeding a native rough-coated terrier soon spread to Victoria on the mainland and then to other Australian states. When the Australians needed help to control rodents on the waterfront and in the gold mines or sheep stations, or to herd sheep and serve as watchdogs, they began breeding these small dogs from the rough-coated , short-legged dogs from Britain which originally came with the first sailing ships to the Land Down Under.
This dog, one of the smallest of the working terriers, was bred to be both helper and companion in rough times and terrain. A native dog, known as the rough-coated terrier, and a close relative of the old scotch dog of Great Britain (not to be confused with the present day Scottish Terrier) are believed to have been bred with a number of other breeds of British stock to produce the fast, sturdy, weather resistant and fearless little dog that the settlers needed as they expanded the frontiers of their country. The breeds chosen for cross breeding were selected to promote specific desired traits. Although there are differences among writers of the histories of the breed, there is consensus of opinion that the breeds used included the precursor of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, the Skye, the Yorkshire, and the old Black and Tan Terrier.
Physical Characteristics
The Australian Terrier is a small, sturdy, medium-boned working terrier about 10-11 inches in height at the withers. Its body is rather long in proportion to height, with a long slightly arched neckline. Its head should be long and strong, with pricked ears, and dark, black-rimmed eyes. The coat is harsh and straight, about 2½ inches all over its body, with a distinctive ruff and apron, and a soft, silky topknot. The tail is docked, leaving slightly less than one half, and should be held erect.
Aussies come in three colors, Blue & Tan, Solid Sandy, and Solid Red. As benefits their heritage as versatile workers, Australian Terriers are sound and free-moving, with good reach and drive. Their expression should be keen and intelligent, their manner spirited and self assured.
Temperament
The Australian Terrier was developed as a companion, and as a result, will be happiest when with "his" people. Aussies are not suited to living outside or spending long hours in a run or fenced yard alone. They are happiest when in close contact with their families. Australian Terriers are born diggers, as "going to ground" is part of their heritage. They are excellent jumpers, and it is nearly impossible to teach an Aussie to resist the urge to chase squirrels, rabbits, cats, etc.. Aussies were bred to hunt vermin, and this instinct is still very strong in their temperaments. Aussies are natural watch dogs, and will sound the alarm should any strange dog or person approach the house. Terriers in general are very lively and outgoing, and have a high energy level that does not make them suitable pets for everyone. As with other terriers, they can be dog aggressive and somewhat bossy, and care must be taken when living in a multi-pet household. In general, adult male terriers do not get along well with other adult male dogs.
© copyright 1997 Australian Terrier Club of America, Inc. Reprinted with permission.