• Height (at the shoulders): 10 – 14 inches (25 – 33 cm)
• Weight: 24 – 33 pounds (11 – 15 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Terrier Group – AKC recognized in 1991
• Shedding: average shedder; sheds twice per year
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); fairly active indoors; best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of the Miniature Bull Terrier Dog Breed

Most miniature and toy dog breeds are considered lapdogs. However, the Miniature Bull Terrier does not have the same characteristics as these other small dogs. As far as personality is concerned, these dogs are literally just smaller versions of the standard-sized Bull Terrier.

They are rough, playful, mischievous, yet sweet and friendly, all the same time. Miniature Bull Terriers are considered to be very stubborn but when trained properly become excellent watchdogs.

History of the Miniature Bull Terrier Dog Breed

The Miniature Bull Terrier is a member of the Terrier family, the Mastiff family, and the Bull family. The breed originated in England and the date of origin can be traced back to the 1800s. This dog’s original function was nothing more than to be a companion.

Today, many Miniature Bull Terrier dogs are also used at Earthdog trials.

This dog breed was created directly from the regular sized Bull Terrier so it shares the same history in the early days. Back then, the standard for Bull Terriers allowed for all size ranges and weight. This diversity reflected all of the breed’s ancestry, including the Black and Tan Terrier, Bulldog, and the White English Terrier.

Miniature Bull Terriers have been in existence for a long time. There have been some Bull Terriers reported to weigh as little as 4 pounds. One of the first groups of smaller “toy” Bull Terriers were white in color and referred to as “Coverwood Terriers”. This name was a reflection of the kennel that produce them.

In time, a better and more healthier group of small Bull Terriers were created. Their size was somewhat larger than the toy version and so became known as “miniatures”. These Miniature Bull Terriers were bred and their popularity rose to such a point that the English Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1939.

This recognition created a few problems at first. Because it was its own separate breed, Miniature Bulls could not be interbred with the regular-sized Bull Terriers. Unfortunately, the numbers of miniatures were so small that inbreeding was forced to happen.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1991 as a member of the AKC Terrier Group.

The Miniature Bull Terrier Dog Breed Care and Grooming

Miniature Bull Terriers should not live outdoors. Playtime in the yard and a few walks on a the leash will provide plenty of exercise for this dog. They also make excellent pets for small apartments or condominiums.

The Miniature Bull Terrier is easy to groom. Just an occasional brushing and combing will be sufficient. You can remove loose hair with a daily rubdown with a special rubber glove.

Health Problems of the Miniature Bull Terrier Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Miniature Bull Terrier dog is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• deafness

Minor health issues include:

• lens luxation
• glaucoma

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• kidney disease

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

• Height (at the shoulders): Toy: 10 – 12 inches (25 – 30 cm) ; Standard: 15 – 16 inches (39 – 40 cm)
• Weight: Toy: 6 – 8 pounds (2.5 – 3.5 kg)  ; Standard: 18 pounds (8 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 15 or more years
• AKC Group: Terrier and Toy Group – AKC recognized in 1886 (Toy) and 1887 (Standard)
• Shedding: average shedder; the Toy sheds little to no hair
• Living Conditions: good for apartments; very active indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Manchester Terrier Dog

The Manchester Terrier has a striking appearance and is one of the more sensitive members of the Terrier Group. Enthusiasts of the breed often describe them as “cat-like” because of its overly-cautious demeanor and independent personality. These dogs take great pride in keeping themselves clean, much like a cat does.

When it comes to personality, the Manchester Terrier is friendly towards other dogs and highly-affectionate with it owners. However, when strangers approach they becomes alert and reserved. For this reason they make excellent watchdogs in any household.

They are also very playful and need to expend lots of energy each day.

History of the Manchester Terrier Dog Breed

The origination of the Manchester Terrier is the result of a cross of two amazing breeds – the Black and Tan Terrier and the Whippet. It all started around the early 16th century, in England, as the people there enjoyed the hunting abilities of the Black and Tan when it came to getting rid of rats and other small rodents.

At the turn of industrialization the working class of England also enjoyed dog racing with the Whippet being the main contender. With the Black and Tan Terriers the most popular rodent-killing dogs, and the Whippet the favorite among racing dogs, it was only a matter of time before both breeds would be crossed.

A man named John Hulme, who lived in Manchester, was the first breeder to do so. His goal was to create a dog that could be refined in both areas; rat killing and racing. The resulting breed was a beautiful canine that looked like a Black and Tan Terrier but with a refined back.

It was officially known as the Manchester Terrier in 1860, then renamed the Black and Tan Terrier, but changed back to the Manchester in 1923.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1886.

The Manchester Terrier Care and Grooming

This breed needs daily action but can get its exercise requirements from a few brisk walks on the leash or a romp around the yard. Natural explorers, the Manchester Terrier is most happy when able to roam outside off-leash in a safe area. Ideally, the dog should have access to a fenced-in yard while sleeping indoors with the family at night.

The Manchester has very little tolerance for cold temperatures but can handle hot climates.

Their coat is smooth which means minimal grooming needs. A light brushing every couple of weeks just to remove dead hairs is plenty.

These dogs also need soft bedding to sleep on.

Health Problems of the Manchester Terrier Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Manchester Terrier is about fifteen years.

There are no major health concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• vWD (Von Willebrand’s Disease)
• cardiomyopathy
• hypothyroidism

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
• deafness
• patellar luxation
• Legg-Perthes

Veterinarians recommend having the Manchester Terrier breed tested specifically for vWD (Von Willebrand’s Disease), eye, hip, and thyroid problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

• Height (at the shoulders): 8 – 11 inches (20 – 28 cm)
• Weight: 18 – 24 pounds (8 – 11 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Terrier Group – AKC recognized in 1886
• Shedding: sheds little to no hair
• Living Conditions: good for apartments; fairly active indoors; small yard okay

Personality of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier Breed

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is playful, affectionate and loyal. They have an independent personality, but yet they are loyal companions and devoted to their family. They make a great companion dog for people of all ages.

They are friendly towards other dogs and other household pets. They can be be overly playful at times, and are always on the lookout for an opportunity to play. However, they make excellent watchdogs. If a stranger approaches the house when the owners are not there the Dandie Dinmont will bark nonstop to ward off the intruder.

History of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier Breed

The breed originated in area that bordered England and Scotland. Farmers originally used them to help hunt and kill small animals such as otters, fox, and badgers.

Before being called the Dandie Dinomont Terrier, they were called various other names – Mustard Terriers, Hindlee Terriers, Pepper Terriers, and even Catcleugh Terreir. Many of these terriers were owned by one man, James Davidson.

It is believed that Mr. Davidson used these dogs as models for the Dandie Dinmont characters that were used in a Sir Walter Scott book by the title of “Guy Mannering”. That book was published in 1914. Of course, these dogs were dubbed the Dandie Dinmont Terrier. They were eventually recognized as a separate breed in 1873.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1886 as a member of the Terrier Group.

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier Breed Care and Grooming

These terriers have very high levels of energy and require sufficient daily exercise. They are best for individuals and families who live and active lifestyle. They enjoy playtime outdoors and love to explore and hunt small animals around the yard.

Grooming requirements for these dogs include a good brushing with a high quality dog brush, at least twice weekly. Professional clipping and trimming is recommended about every three to four months to keep their coats well maintained.

This breed sheds little to no hair.

Health Problems of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier Breed

The average life expectancy of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier breed is about twelve to fifteen years.

There are no major health concerns for this dog breed.

Minor health issues include:

• glaucoma
• intervertebral disk disease
• epilepsy
• hypothyroidism
• overweight in older dogs

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• cheyletiella mites

Veterinarians recommend having the Dandie Dinmont Terrier breed tested specifically for eye problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 10 – 13 inches (25 – 33 cm) ; bitches: 9 – 12 inches (23 – 30 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 14 – 18 pounds (6 – 8 kg)  ; bitches: 13 – 17 pounds (6 – 8 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Terrier Group – AKC recognized in 1913
• Shedding: sheds little to no hair
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); very active indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Cairn Terrier Dog Breed

The Cairn Terrier is bold, inquisitive, a bit stubborn, but sensitive and affectionate. They are always eager to please their owners. These small dogs have all of the typical characteristics you would expect of terriers.

They are great around children and can tolerate a little rough playing once in a while. They are feisty little dogs and will even try to stand up to much larger dogs. They are very good watchdogs and reserved around strangers and other household pets.

History of the Cairn Terrier Dog Breed

The Cairn Terrier has been around since the 15th Century. They were originally used to hunt badger, fox, and otters. It is believed that the breed got its name because of their great ability to run otters out of the cairns, which were piles of stones used as memorials or landmarks.

These dogs were originally made up of several colors including gray, red, and white. All color variations were considered Scotch Terriers. In 1873, only two dogs were considered a part of the breed, the Skye Terrier and the Dandie Dinmont Terrier breed.

In 1881, the group was further categorized into two additional groups, the Hard-Haired Terrier and the Skye Terrier. Over time the Hard-Haired Terriers were further subdivided into the West Highland White, the Scotch Terrier, and the Cairn Terrier.

The Cairn Terrier officially got its new name in the early 1900s. They became quite popular in England during that time. Eventually, the breed made its way to the United States where their popularity continued to grow.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1913 as a member of the Terrier Group.

The Cairn Terrier Dog Breed Care and Grooming

Although these terriers are small dogs they still require lots of regular exercise. Take them on a long walk daily and play active games with them inside or in a safely enclosed outside area.

The shaggy look typical of Cairn Terriers actually require consistent grooming, if not the coat will become matted and tangled. Their wiry coats need a good brushing several times weekly. You may want to invest in one of the Chris Christensen products. An annual stripping of the coat is also recommended.

The Cairn Terrier sheds little to no hair.

Health Problems of the Cairn Terrier Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Cairn Terrier dog breed is about twelve to fifteen years.

There are no major health concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• CMO (Craniomandibular Osteopathy)
• glaucoma
• portacaval shunt
• allergic to fleas
• gains weight easily

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• GCL (Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy)

Veterinarians recommend having the Cairn Terrier dog breed tested specifically for GCL.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): 20 – 24 inches (51 – 61 cm)
• Weight: 45 – 80 pounds (20 – 36 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Terrier Group – AKC recognized in 1885
• Shedding: average shedder; sheds twice per year
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); fairly active indoors; okay with a small yard

Personality of the Bull Terrier Dog

The Bull Terrier can be described as assertive, exuberant, and comical. They have very high energy levels and can be mischievous at times.

Like many of the bully breeds, they can be a bit stubborn, which can make them a challenge to train. However with patience and the right attitude, these dogs can certainly be trained.

They make excellent watchdogs and will protect their property and their family. However, they were not bred to be guard dogs.

Bull Terriers are sweet natured, affectionate, and devoted to their family. In fact, they can become quite attached to their owners. They get along well with both adults and children. However, they can be a bit too energetic for smaller children.

History of the Bull Terrier Dog

During the 1800s, the Old English Terrier was crossed with the Bulldog. The result was an offspring called the Bull and Terrier. Eventually, this dog was crossed with the Spanish Pointer to increase the overall size of the dog.

The result was a strong, agile, and fierce dog that was bred to fight in the dog pits that were a leading form of entertainment throughout Europe at that time. These Bull and Terrier dogs became increasingly popular at dog fighting contests, but never reached the popularity level of other dog fighting breeds. This was probably because they were associated with the lower class at that time.

Eventually, dog fighting was abolished, and dog enthusiasts started to show the Bull and Terrier in the show ring. Sometime during the 1860s, this dog was crossed with Dalmatians to create an all white dog that became known as the Bull Terrier.

Through additional breeding, the Bull Terrier’s distinctive head started to emerge. During the early 1900s, the all white dog had other colors incorporated into the breed by crossing it with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

The AKC considers the Miniature Bull Terrier to be a separate breed.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1885.

The Bull Terrier Dog Care and Grooming

Bull Terriers require daily mental and physical stimulation to remain happy and healthy.  Daily long walks and fun outdoor games are encouraged and recommended. They are prone to becoming overweight and lazy so provide them with exercise daily.

Because of its short coat, only minimal grooming is required. A weekly brushing with a good dog brush is needed to remove dead hairs from the coat. You can also remove dead hairs by using a rubber grooming mitt to rub down the coat daily.

These dogs are average shedders, usually shedding twice per year.

Health Problems of the Bull Terrier Dog

The average life expectancy of the Bull Terrier dog is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• kidney problems
• deafness

Minor health issues include:

• dog allergies
• compulsive behavior
• heart problems
• gains weight easily

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• patellar luxation

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): 7 – 8 inches (18 – 20 cm)
• Weight: 6 – 12 pounds (2.7 – 5.4 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Toy Group – AKC recognized in 1910
• Shedding: sheds little to no hair
• Living Conditions: good for apartments; okay without a yard

Personality of the Brussels Griffon Dog Breed

The Brussels Griffon is an intelligent, spunky, and outgoing member of the Toy Group. They are often considered bold and mischievous. These dogs are very confident, and unlike many other toy breeds, they are usually friendly towards other dogs.

They have an unusual habit of climbing, and are known to be great escape artists.

They are small, entertaining family dogs. But they can also be very loud and vocal, which makes them great watchdogs. These dogs love to be the center of attention. They may become snappy with children and even with some adults.

History of the Brussels Griffon Dog Breed

The history of the Brussels Griffon can be traced as far back as 1800s Belgium. They were originally used to hunt small rodents, and as a general companion pet.

Some researchers claim that the breed probably came from a type of Belgian street dog known as the Griffon d’ Ecurie, and from Affenpinscher dogs. One story says that these dogs were a favorite among cab drivers in Brussels because they attracted visitors but drove away the thieves.

Sometime in the late 1800s, these dogs were crossed with the Pug. From the shape of the head of today’s Brussels Griffon, you can still see a resemblance to the Pug.

By 1880, the Brussels Griffon started to appear at Belgian dog shows. By the start of the 1900s, their popularity had really grown.

Like with many other dog breeds, their numbers declined significantly during World War I. However, after the war, their popularity once again increased all over the world.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1910.

The Brussels Griffon Dog Breed Care and Grooming

Daily exercise is required for these very active dogs. But because they are so small, they can get a lot of exercise just by running around and playing inside the house. Like all dogs, they still need to be taken on a daily walk.

They cannot live outdoors, but if given the chance, these dogs will have a blast running around and playing in a safely enclosed area.

Grooming requirements for the Brussels Griffon includes a weekly brushing with a good dog brush to remove any dead hair from the coat.

These dogs shed little to no hair.

Health Problems of the Brussels Griffon Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Brussels Griffon dog breed is about twelve to fifteen years. They are one of the healthiest dogs in the Toy Group. There are no major health issues, and there seems to be no minor issues affecting the breed either.

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• patellar luxation
• weak bladder
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
• cataracts
• distichiasis

Veterinarians recommend having the Brussels Griffon dog breed tested specifically for potential hip and eye problems.

Image courtesy of Faith Georgia via Flickr

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): 15 – 17 inches (38 – 43 cm)
• Weight: 10 – 25 pounds (5 – 11 kg)
• Life Expectancy: up to 15 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1893
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: good for apartment; relatively inactive indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Boston Terrier Breed

Boston Terriers are loyal companions who are very in tune with how their owners are feeling. They are playful and affectionate which makes them great family pets. They are also good with children and seniors alike, and very friendly towards strangers.

These dogs are gentle, alert, and quite intelligent. They generally get along well with other household pets, but may become dominant and aggressive with other dogs. Boston Terriers can be difficult to housebreak.

History of the Boston Terrier Breed

The history of the Boston Terrier is well documented. It is one of the few dog breeds that was actually bred in the United States of America.

During the late 1800s, wealthy Boston families employed coachmen to breed some of their finest dogs. One of these crosses, between an English White Terrier and an English Bulldog, resulted in a fine specimen weighing over thirty pounds. This dog was then bred to a smaller female. One of their male offspring was then bred to an even smaller female. Finally, one of the resulting offspring was bred with  French Bulldogs to create the foundation stock for today’s Boston Terrier.

By 1890, the breed became so popular in Boston, that lovers of the breed created an organization called the American Bull Terrier Club. However, shortly after the dog’s name was officially changed to the Boston Terrier.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1893.

The Boston Terrier Breed Care and Grooming

The Boston Terrier requires daily exercise. A long walk around the neighborhood or some playtime in a safely enclosed area is sufficient. They love to play games involving chasing something, and they enjoy retrieving a ball. Without proper exercise they can be a bit high strung and get themselves into trouble.

They have a smooth, short-haired coat that is pretty easy to groom. Just comb and brush them with a firm bristle brush, and give them a bath only when necessary. They do not have the typical strong dog odor. You should wipe their faces daily, paying special attention to their eyes. Check the ears regularly for fleas and ticks. Clip the nails now and again.

This dog breed is an average shedder.

Health Problems of the Boston Terrier Breed

The average life expectancy of the Boston Terrier breed is about fifteen years.

There are no major health concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• stenotic nares
• patellar luxation
• elongated soft palate
• allergies

Veterinarians recommend having the Boston Terrier breed tested specifically for hip dysplasia, knee problems, and potential eye problems.

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 13 – 16 inches (33 – 41 cm) ; bitches: 11 – 14 inches (28 – 36 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 13 – 16 pounds (6 – 7 kg)  ; bitches: 11 – 14 pounds (5 – 6 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Terrier Group – AKC recognized in 1930
• Shedding: sheds little to no hair
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); moderately inactive indoors; small yard okay

Personality of the Border Terrier Breed

The Border Terrier is one of the friendliest members of the Terrier Group. They are intelligent, energetic, and usually easy to train. They make great family pets and would do best with a family that loves the outdoors and live a fairly active lifestyle.

They are great with children and just love to play. Border Terriers are very affectionate dogs which makes them a great companion.

History of the Border Terrier Breed

This dog breed is believed to have originated from an area in the Cheviot Hills that bordered England and Scotland. Their history can be traced back as far as the 1700s. They were mainly used to chase fox and other animals. In the 1800s they also participated in the gentry’s elegant fox hunts, where their job was to dispatch the fox.

They were originally called the Coquetdale Terrier, but in 1870 their name was officially changed to the Border Terrier. In the late 1870s, the breed entered the show ring for the first time.

They are closely related to the Dandie Dinmont Terrier breed.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1930.

The Border Terrier Breed Care and Grooming

These dogs have very high energy levels, but they can still do okay with a couple of brisk walks daily. If possible, they should be allowed to play in a safe enclosed area as well. Border Terriers also love to explore, so a long hike along a nature trail would be something they would just love to do.

Grooming requirements include a weekly brushing to remove any dead hairs from the harsh  wiry coat. A quarterly stripping is also recommended. This helps the coat to maintain a neat outline. You may want to have your Border Terrier professionally groomed twice per year as well.

The breed sheds little to no hair and is considered a good choice for allergy sufferers.

Health Problems of the Border Terrier Breed

The average life expectancy of the Border Terrier breed is about twelve to fifteen years.

There are no major health concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• patellar luxation

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• heart defects
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• CECS (Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome)

Veterinarians recommend having the Border Terrier breed tested specifically for hip and heart problems.

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 16 – 17 inches (41 – 43 cm) ; bitches: 15 – 16 inches (38 – 41 cm)
• Weight: 18 – 23 pounds (8 – 10 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 14 years
• AKC Group: Terrier Group – AKC recognized in 1886
• Shedding: sheds little to no hair
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment; fairly active indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of Bedlington Terriers

These dogs are easygoing and friendly members of the Terrier Group. Some would argue that they are the friendliest dogs among terriers. For terriers, they are unusually friendly, even towards strangers. However, that does not mean that they are not great watchdogs.

Because of their mild and gentle temperament, they make great family companions and are perfect around children. They are always looking to play, and make quiet house pets.

They can get along with other other dogs and cats as long as they are properly socialized from they are young.

History of Bedlington Terriers

The exact origin of the Bedlington Terrier is a bit sketchy. We do know that they have been around England since the 1800s.

The breed is believed to have originated in the English town of Bedlington around 1825 and is the offspring of Rothbury Terrier crosses. It is believed that sometime later, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier and the Whippet were used to refine the breed. However, this seems to be a largely unsubstantiated claim. No matter what breeds were use to create this unusual Terrier breed, the results are unforgettable.

The Bedlington Terrier is skilled at hunting rats, fox, badgers, and even otters.

These dogs entered the show ring around the late 1800s. Today, they are still very popular in and out of the show ring.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1886.

Bedlington Terriers Care and Grooming

These dogs require plenty of daily exercise. Running and games that involve a lot of physical activity are great for providing them with the necessary exercise.

Their grooming requirements includes a good brushing at least twice weekly, using the proper dog grooming brush. Their coats should be trimmed monthly to keep it looking nice and neat.

The Bedlington’s thick double coat is a mixture of soft and hard hair which sheds little. This can make them a good choice for people suffering from allergies.

Health Problems of Bedlington Terriers

The average life expectancy of the Bedlington Terrier is about twelve to fourteen years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• copper toxicosis

Minor health issues include:

• distichiasis
• renal cortical hypoplasia
• retinal dysplasia

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• patellar luxation

Veterinarians recommend having Bedlington Terriers tested specifically for eye problems. They also recommend a liver biopsy, and DNA for copper toxicosis.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): 9 – 11 inches (23 – 28 cm)
• Weight: 9 – 14 pounds (4 – 6 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 14 years
• AKC Group: Terrier Group – AKC recognized in 1960
• Shedding: light shedder
• Living Conditions: good for apartment life; fairly active indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Australian Terrier

Australian Terriers are one of the best all around family dogs. They are loving and caring, playful and outgoing. These terriers thrive on human contact and love to spend hours being near their family. They are loyal and devoted, making them great watchdogs and companions.

They may snap at children, so supervision is recommended.

They are moderately easy to train and love to learn new tricks. They are very clever and one of the most obedient members of the Terrier Group.

They get along well with other dogs and pets, but are wary around strangers.

History of Australian Terriers

This breed originated in Australia and its origin can be traced as far back as the early 1900s. It was first bred in Tasmania and is one of the smallest members of the working terriers. Its bloodline descended from several of the European breeds, and it is related to the Silky Terrier.

The original rough-coated terriers of Tasmania had several jobs – killing small rodents and snakes, being a watchdog, and helping to control livestock. These dogs were crossed with a variety of other terriers such as the Skye, Scotch, Manchester Terrier, the Dandie Dinmont, and the Yorkshire Terrier.

The new breed was as useful as its ancestors, with an added benefit – it had a striking appearance. Its name was changed several times before officially being named the Australian Terrier.

It was introduced to the United States around 1925. In 1960, the American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed.

Australian Terrier Care and Grooming

Australian Terriers can tolerate both cool and warm temperatures. However, they are not dogs that can live outdoors. They need to be a part of their families and should be kept indoors.

They have very high energy levels  which means they need a lot of daily exercise. They can be taken on a brisk walk on leash. They love to play, so vigorous games outside in a safely enclosed area would be great.

Brush their wiry coats several times per week to remove any dead hairs. Brush gently to protect their soft undercoat. Do not bathe this Terrier too often. Trim around their eyes and ears as needed, and clip their nails regularly. That’s pretty much it for their grooming requirements. Just remember to use the proper dog grooming tools.

These dogs shed little to no hair.

Health Problems of Australian Terrier Dogs

The breed has an average life expectancy of twelve to fourteen years.

There are no major health concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• Diabetes
• Patellar Luxation

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• Seizures
• Legg-Perthes
• Cruciate Ligament Rupture

There are no veterinarian recommended tests for this dog breed.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book: