The histories of the two terrier breeds that originated in Australia are inextricably linked. Both Australian Terriers and Silky Terriers were bred by Australia in the 19th century from various English Terrier breeds.
Story
From old reports, it is known that around Tasmania as early as the beginning of the 19th century there were many blue and tan wire-haired terriers weighing around 2.5 kg, generally recognized as guard dogs. Other terriers in this area of Australia were sandy-colored. In all likelihood, the Australian Terrier originated in Scotland and Northern England brought to Australia by immigrants.
The hard coat and short legs come from the Scottie (or Cairn Terrier) – the Skye Terrier reinforced the genes for short legs while bringing a lush coat and length of the body. Country of origin Australia.
Later crossings established the coat of hair of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, the pale blue color, and the small size of the Yorkie Terrier. Some experts believe that some Irish Terrier ancestry also helped establish the Sandies’ red coloration.
Manchester Terriers were crossed later to improve the color strength of the tan in the blue/tans. Dog shows in the 19th century held classes for both black and tan and blue and tan Broken-coated Terriers divided into under and over 3.2 kg.
The Australian Terrier’s ears must be ringing if he could understand what is written about him. He is a “real” dog in a small format; a big dog in a little one. His ancestors in Australia two or three centuries earlier did not have to deal with such identity problems.
They have a lot of work guarding houses and yards and keeping them free from mice, rats, and even snakes. Having arrived in Australia in the luggage of English immigrants, the terriers are bred for their usefulness.
Old terrier breeds from the north of England and Scotland, such as Scotch Terriers, Black and Tan Terriers, and other terrier breeds from the basis. In Australia at that time, there was a demand for working dogs that were unaffected by wind and weather and that supported their people with intelligence, agility, and a willingness to work.
The appearance of the dogs remains secondary and unconsidered. Prized by mine owners and farmers for their courage and tenacity, the low-standing terrier has been bred since the 19th century. He is faster than the fleeing rabbit, kills snakes in the mines with lightning speed, or looks after sheep and livestock.
Height and Weight
With a shoulder height of 25 centimeters and a weight of up to 6.5 kilograms, the “Aussie”, as this breed is sometimes affectionately called by its owners, is extremely agile. The tough and robust dog was recognized as an independent Australian breed in 1933. German breeds have been documented since 1968. The FCI standard no. 8 provides the blue, sandy, and red coloring for the harsh coat. The little one is usually lighter on the head and legs.
Fur
The topcoat is dense and about 6 centimeters long. Together with the soft undercoat, it effectively protects against wet and cold as well as extreme heat. In addition, it is very easy to care for – the coat only requires regular combing with the help of combs with coarse teeth. This saves a lot of money for the dog groomer over the years.
The long fur collar on the neck is striking, which can only be seen on fully grown four-legged friends, at about three years of age. Small oval eyes and pointed, upright ears give the terrier’s face its captivating expression.
Australian Terrier Nature
It suits the Australian Terrier’s winning nature. He is an all-rounder among pedigree dogs. Spirited and sometimes daring. He loves people. If he doesn’t know her, he cautiously approaches her. Children, on the other hand, are quickly accepted and protected by him. The Australian Terrier usually avoids arguments with other dogs. This makes him a pleasant companion on long walks – where he is cheerful and open-minded.
Education
However, the terrier experienced dog handler does not forget to let the little one run under careful observation in the woods and fields; in the knowledge of his occasionally reviving hunting instinct. In principle, the working and companion dog is easy to train. He learns quickly, is easy to handle given his attachment and open-mindedness, and willingly subordinates himself.
The family dog lives vigilantly in the city apartment without being noticed by excessive barking. In this environment, he keeps watching as incorruptibly as on the big farm. Self-confident and instinctively sure, he gets along with the animals found there. If it then comes to live together with other Australian Terriers, this would correspond to its origin and its use as a herding dog – an increase in the quality of life that the Australian is happy to see.
Equipped with great jumping and climbing ability, the Australian Terrier is recommended for dog sports. Here he enjoys dog dancing, Frisbee games, obedience, and similar challenges. Well trained and solidly prepared for the demanding task, an Aussie proves itself to be an agile and welcome therapy dog. Thanks to its adaptability, the companion takes on any challenge and gives its people room for creative action.