WE POSTED A NEW GIVEAWAY YESTERDAY! YOU CAN TWEET DAILY FOR A CHANCE TO WIN RABBIT JERKY!
Y’all, I met a dog, this weekend, which was new to me. The Australian Terrier was competing at Rally in Broken Arrow, OK. What a handsome little dog! Say hello to an Australian Terrier.
Some Facts About the Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is small and sturdy with a blue and tan, sandy or red coat that is harsh in texture. They have a keen and alert expression and confident spirit. They are versatile in their work and living situations, making suitable companions in most environments.
- It was the first Australian breed to be show in Australia
- They adapt well to most climates
- Australian Terriers do well with children, people advanced in age, and people with disabilities
- They’re working dogs
- A quick learner, they’re ideal for obedience training, as well as most other training
- The double coat is somewhat rough, and weatherproof
- Australian Terriers are smaller dogs, weighing in at about 13 pounds when fully grown
The Australian Terrier sounds to me like the perfect dog. And what, really, is the perfect dog? People get dogs for different reasons. If you’re looking for a watch dog, this breed may be for you. A dog for working livestock? Maybe so. But a pet? Let’s take a look.
Would an Australian Terrier Make a Good Pet?
It depends. I know that’s a wuss response, but hear me out. We’ve already seen that this breed does well with children, older people and handicapped individuals, so we know their temperament is good. But this is a terrier, with everything which goes along with that. You need to know yourself and your family well enough to make this determination. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Are we an active family? If you’re single and young, or single and older, as well as active, this might be your perfect dog. They need plenty of activity. They handle apartment living fine, but need long daily walks. Plenty of activity. Terriers need a job to do. They need to be learning and training always. Terriers need to run and chase.
- Is there a dog park near me that’s open daily, or do I have a large fenced yard or country land? Terriers need to run and chase. They need to be active. Every day.
- Am I willing and dedicated to proper training of an Australian Terrier? Because this is a terrier and a small dog, as friendly and patient as an Australian Terrier can be with children, they can also be snappy with kids if they lack training and patience from the owner. These cute dogs have a mind of their own and want to rule the roost. Well, I don’t actually think that they do. I think they just need to know you’re the top dog. Patience and training go a long way.
- Do we really want a small dog? Some people just aren’t about small dogs. That’s okay. I want you to be equipped to make the right decision, since a dog is for life. As cute as small dogs can be for some people, they slip through gates easier, dart out doors faster, get underfoot more often, but also jump into laps and snuggle perfectly. I can’t imagine a whole lot of snuggling with this breed, as active as it is, but you’ll definitely get some.
- Do I want a dog which might be smarter than I am? This is a terrier. Terriers are brilliant dogs. I swear, you look into their face and can see the gears of their brains turning. They’re always up to something. In fact, I’m pretty sure mischief is their middle name. This is why they have to be worn out EVERY DAY. Much like small children.
All things said, the Australian Terrier could be the perfect dog for someone who is active and single, looking for a companion dog they can play and hike with, or just to train and work shows with. This breed would also be great for a family with young kids, a family who is willing to work patiently with the dog, but wants a great companion for the children, as well as a watch dog. Finally, it would rock as a working dog, but I’m guessing it would chase chickens to no end.
Pros and Cons of Having an Australian Terrier
Pros:
- Adaptable to most climates
- Sturdy terrier build
- Weatherproof coat
- Very little shedding/low maintenance coat
- Friendly and great with kids, if trained from puppy-hood
- Courageous and energetic
- Loyal to immediate family
- Great with other pets
- Travels well
- Almost no health issues
Cons:
- Needs plenty of exercise
- Needs ongoing training for life
- Likes to bark
- Will chase small animals, so always needs to be on a leash
Sum Up
Gosh, y’all. If you like small dogs and are active, as well as looking for a companion and are willing to work with a dog to train, the Australian Terrier could very well be the perfect dog. So I find myself asking the most important question – which Jones Natural Chews would I keep on hand for an Australian Terrier and why?
- Hooves – this smaller dog needs a smaller long-lasting chew and the Hoof is perfect
- Any of Jones jerkies or sausages – they all snap or tear into small pieces, ideal for training dogs of any size
- For a general treat, Lamb Lung Puffs – these also snap into tiny pieces, but I consider them a doggy delicacy, or crack for dogs and perfect for a small dog who’s worked hard all day
Now! Enter our giveaway. Then give your dog a Jones Natural Chew and watch it smile. Naturally.
Until I write again …
Flea
