Australian Terrier

The Australian Terrier does well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian's supervision and approval. Match the diet to your dog's life stage, whether puppy, adult, or senior, and keep clean, fresh water available at all times.

• Adults: two measured meals daily of a life-stage-appropriate kibble or canned food
• Puppies: three measured meals daily
• Follow the weight-based feeding guidelines on the food packaging, and ask your veterinarian to tailor the amount to your dog

This is an active breed, but some dogs are prone to gaining weight as they age, so monitor food and treats and don't let treats overload the daily calorie count. A whole-food treat like apples or carrots cut into small pieces is a good stand-in for commercial treats. If you notice a sudden change in weight, ask your veterinarian.

Because the Australian Terrier is somewhat prone to joint problems, your vet might suggest a joint supplement or a joint-health diet. Typically, a dog eating a complete and balanced diet receives all the nutrients it needs and won't require supplementation.

The Australian Terrier's harsh, weatherproof double coat repels dirt and mud and is easy to maintain. It sheds very little. A quick brushing once a week with a brush or grooming mitt usually keeps it in fine shape and prevents matting of the undercoat, and the coat typically does not need a professional groomer to hold its shape.

Bathe only when needed, roughly every few months or when your dog gets especially dirty. Shampoo softens the harsh coat and undermines its dirt-shedding quality, and too much bathing can leave the skin dry and flaky. Ask your veterinarian for bathing guidance that fits your dog.

Long hairs that grow in front of and between the eyes can cause irritation if left unchecked, but they pluck out easily with tweezers or fingers during grooming, and soft facial hair can be trimmed short around the eyes. Check the eyes regularly for unusual discharge or other changes.

Keep the hair on the ears trimmed short, and inspect the ears during grooming for excessive wax, odor, or signs of infection. Clean them occasionally with a veterinary-recommended cleaner. Trim the nails regularly, and brush the teeth at home alongside professional cleanings to support long-term dental health.

Terriers run on high energy, and the Aussie is no exception. The breed is very active and needs regular exercise to keep from becoming bored, which can lead to behaviors like digging. Daily play sessions, indoors or out, keep an Aussie happy and well adjusted, and since they love time with their people, walks or a game of fetch work well.

Because the hunting instinct is strong, an Aussie should always be leashed or in a securely fenced area outside and never run loose. They might chase a cat or squirrel so far from home that they cannot find their way back, so this is not a breed to trust off-leash or in an unfenced yard.

Digging is natural for a dog bred to track and capture small prey underground. If it clusters in one spot, add rocks or chicken wire to discourage it, or set up a designated digging space to satisfy the instinct.

Their skill set also makes them strong candidates for scent work and tracking, and they excel in obedience and agility thanks to their desire to work alongside their handler. Plenty of mental engagement, not just physical activity, keeps this clever breed satisfied.

Like many terriers, Aussies benefit from puppy training classes and introductory obedience using treats, toys, or praise. They are intelligent, independent thinkers who bore easily with routine, so keep sessions short and present training like a game. A firm, consistent approach works best, and positive reinforcement suits them well.

Begin socializing your puppy as soon as you bring them home, since these self-assured dogs still need socialization to feel fully comfortable in new situations. Your veterinarian can help determine appropriate socialization activities. Without it, Aussies can become bossy or territorial.

These dogs thrive on close human bonds and do not do well left isolated for long periods, so plan for plenty of company. Their devoted nature makes them good companions for children. They can be stubborn, bossy, and territorial, which can make sharing a home with other animals difficult, so take care when introducing another dog into the household.