16 things to know before getting an Australian Terrier

Thinking about bringing home an Australian Terrier? Then you already sense what most people miss: this is a big personality in a very small package.

They're smart, spirited, and endlessly loyal — but they are not your average lap dog.

Here's the good news: once you know how they tick, they're one of the most rewarding little companions you can own. This guide walks you through the 16 things that actually matter before you say yes.

Small but mighty (and built to work)

Don't let the size fool you. Australian Terriers stand just 10–11 inches tall and weigh around 12–14 pounds — but they carry themselves like a much bigger dog.

That confidence isn't an accident. They were originally bred to hunt vermin and snakes on Australian farms.

So what does that mean for you? That working-dog grit is still baked in. They're tough, alert, and determined — never shy, never dainty.

Grooming: simple, but non-negotiable

Good news first: their wiry, weather-resistant coat doesn't shed much.

But here's the catch — "low-shed" doesn't mean "no maintenance." That coat still needs a weekly once-over to stay clean and tidy.

One spot people forget: the hair around the eyes. Left untrimmed, it can irritate them and cause squinting or tearing.

• ✓Brush the coat weekly to prevent tangles
• ✓Trim hair around the eyes to avoid irritation
• ✓Clean ears and trim nails regularly
• ✓Brush teeth to protect long-term dental health
• ✕Bathe only when they get genuinely messy

A loyal, affectionate family dog

Australian Terriers want to be in the middle of everything. Cooking dinner? They're at your feet. Moving to the couch? They're already there.

Mine would follow me from room to room like a little shadow — that's the breed in a nutshell.

They're loyal, upbeat, and genuinely happiest when they're included in daily life.

They're generally great with kids, too — with one condition.

Not a fan of alone time

Here's an honest deal-breaker for some homes: this breed does not do well being left alone all day.

Aussies bond deeply with their people. Long stretches of solitude can tip into separation anxiety — pacing, whining, chewing, or barking.

So what helped mine? Puzzle toys and a frozen Kong whenever I stepped out. It gave them a job and took the edge off the loneliness.

High energy means they need a job

These are not couch potatoes. An under-exercised Aussie is a bored Aussie — and a bored Aussie gets creative.

Translation: holes dug in the yard, shoes chewed to pieces, and general mischief.

The fix is simple. Give them a daily outlet and they settle beautifully.

Keep them on leash. Always.

Now, here's where that hunting heritage bites back.

Their prey drive is strong. Cats, squirrels, birds — if it moves, they'll chase it, and they won't hear you calling.

Off-leash walks are risky unless you're in a fully secure area. I learned this the hard way once, and let's just say it turned into a very long game of "catch me if you can."

They can coexist with other pets — with care

Good news: many Aussies live happily alongside other dogs and even cats.

But the introductions make or break it. Go slow, keep it supervised, and let both animals set the pace.

Smaller pets are a different story. Hamsters, rabbits, and other pocket pets can read as prey — so that pairing is best avoided entirely.

Smart and eager — but stubborn

Here's the truth about training an Aussie: they're quick learners, and they'll happily work for treats and praise.

But they've also got an independent streak a mile wide. Push too hard, or drone on too long, and they'll simply check out.

Not big barkers — unless they're bored

Australian Terriers are naturally alert and make great little watchdogs. Mine announced every visitor before they reached the door.

Helpful? Usually. But under-stimulated, that watchfulness can slide into nuisance barking.

The answer isn't to silence them — it's to teach when to bark and when to settle, backed up by enough daily activity.

Health, diet, and everyday care

Let's break it down. Australian Terriers are generally a hardy, healthy breed, often living 12–15 years.

Still, no breed is bulletproof. Like all dogs, they can develop conditions worth watching for.

What this means in practice: a responsible breeder plus regular vet checkups is your best defense. Catching issues early keeps them small and manageable.

Diet: refreshingly low-drama

Here's a relief for busy owners — Aussies aren't finicky eaters.

They do well on a balanced, high-quality dog food, whether commercial or homemade (with your vet's guidance on the homemade route).

Frequently Asked Questions