The Australian Terrier is a short toy dog breed coming from Australia. This breed has came to Australia from Great Britain around the 19th century, which makes them a cross from a Yorkie, Cairn Terrier, Skye terrier, and Irish Terrier. Australian Terriers make an excellent lap dog and enjoy the aura of a human being. They act like a true mixture of their ancestral breeds, which in turn makes them one of the best dogs suited for companionship.
Appearance
Australian Terriers have the look of a Yorkie with extra stumpy legs and a longer lean body. They only weigh up to fourteen pounds and grow to be about ten inches. This demure dog has long fur all across its body, with the hair being a bit shorter around the muzzle and eyes. They come in colors of a light tawny brown, brown with a black back, cinnamon, and sometimes a sandy beige. Their tails are in proportion with their body, being diminutive.
Temperament
They have a cheeky attitude just like Irish Terriers. They will bark at any intruder who they feel will harm their master. They need to be warmed up to strangers and even new dogs at a park, so they can feel like they can get along with other people and animals. If they are socialized properly they make an excellent loving dog who has a courageous sensibility. They need to be taught that their master is the one in charge or else they will feel like they are the bi wig, despite their small bodies.
Grooming
Just because they have a long coat does not mean they are a terror to groom. Their bushy coat does not need trimming since it will not grow to great lengths, and they just need a good brush every now and then. They do not need a bath every month as it will take out their natural oils, a bath every two months is best to keep their coat from drying out and making it even more wiry.
Health
These dogs have a commonly good health record. They can live up to sixteen years when kept in their best condition. Because of their shortness, they need some adequate exercise or else they are definitely prone to gaining too much weight, and it is much harder getting the weight off. Otherwise, they do not usually have any genetic health problems.
Australian Terriers are a hodge podge of different terriers so their personalities can differ greatly from each other. They are full of spunk and courage and don't like to be too tied down, being a tad more independent from other lap dogs. They are perfect for anyone looking for an amazing toy breed.