Australian Terrier

Spirited, active, clever and curious dogs, often good with children. As is the case with other Terriers, might not get along well with other dogs. Quick learners and enjoy dog sports such as earthdog trials, agility, tracking, flyball, rally obedience, frisbee and musical canine freestyle. May also engage in chasing or hunting wildlife and digging. Australian terriers can be tenacious and difficult to disengage from an activity.

Australian Terrier History:

The Australian Terrier is one of the smallest of the working terriers and was bred to be both a worker and companion. The Rough-Coated Terrier and a close relative of the old Scotch Dog of Great Britain are believed to have been cross-bred with many other breeds of British stock to produce the speedy, resilient, weather-resistant and fearless dog that served the settlers as they expanded the frontiers of their country. Extended breeding over the years produced a terrier that was well suited to the conditions of Australia. This produced a resilient and rugged dog, that felt home inside or out. The breed quickly spread throughout the country, they were used to control rodents, guard the gold mines and work on ranches as herding and watch dogs. The breed was the first Australian Dog to be recognised in the United States. In 1960, the American Kennel Club officially recognised the Australian Terrier.