The Australian Terrier is one of the many dogs that were originally bred solely in Australia. They were the first of these native dogs to be shown and recognized overseas. The exact ancestry of the Australian Terrier is unknown, however it is likely that it shares blood with the Dandie Dinmont, as well as the Scottish, Manchester, Irish, and Cairn Terriers. The appearance of the breed was evident in Australia by the middle to late 19th century, bred and kept for many uses. Australian Terriers have been used for rodent and snake control, watchdogs, and even at times used for herding sheep.
   
    Australian Terriers are a low-set bred, being longer than they are tall. They stand roughly 10 inches at the withers and weigh around 12-14 pounds. Their coat is rough and harsh to the touch, bred standers call for it to remain untrimmed, and describe the dog's look as rugged. Colors range from blue or gray with tan or red. Australian Terriers have pricked ears and their tails are often docked.
   
    Although Australian Terriers are working dogs they are not happy when left alone for long periods of time.  They bond well and arehappiest when with their owners. They are born diggers from their rodent control ancestry and will always chase anything they see as prey. As with most terriers they make excellent watchdogs, but will bark at the site of anything or anyone they do not know on site. They can show aggression towards other dogs and care needs to be taken when adding them to a multi-pet household. Australian Terriers do not do well with very young children.
   
    Australian Terriers are generally a healthy bred and do not suffer from many genetic diereses. They are to have diabetes and thyroid disorders, and sometimes suffer from skin allergies. In most cases the Australian Terrier lives a long happy life and is a healthy bred.