Anatolian Terrier

Anatolian Terrier

This truly delightful little dog seems to skim across the ground as it playfully chases butterflies. Although this sturdily built, shaggy-haired terrier was originally bred as a sporting dog for catching rats and rabbits, nowadays it generally serves people as a loyal companion.

History:

Like its cousins the Australian Cattle Dog and the Australian Kelpie, the Australian Terrier was also cross-bred from imported dogs for local requirements. The Australian Terrier was probably a combination of Yorkshire, Norwich, Cairn, Irish, and Scottish Terriers. In Melbourne during 1885, the dog was exhibited as the Australian Rough Terrier. Then in the late 1890s the Australian Terrier was seen at shows in Sydney, although it was certainly popular in the Outback well before.

In the early 1900s the Australian Terrier was taken to England but given little recognition as a significant breed. However, in 1921 the Australian Terrier Club started and the popularity of the breed increased. The Duke of Gloucester enjoyed the company of his Australian Terriers during his stay, and upon his return to England dramatically increased the breed's public acceptance. The Kennel Club (UK) recognized the Australian Terrier as an official breed in 1936. At one stage the Australian Terrier was in decline as a breed because of too much cross-breeding with the (Australian) Silky Terrier. However, stalwarts in the UK faithfully continued the line and new stock was introduced back into Australia.

Physical characteristics:

The Australian Terrier is a very sturdy and rugged little dog with a lively nature. Height: 10 in (25.4 cm). Weight: 9 - 14 lb (4 - 6.3 kg). The dark eyes are small and alert, peering out from a flat head topped with upright (non-tufted) pointed ears. The low-slung body is quite long, with a level back. Traditionally the tail has been docked. The double coat is soft underneath and finished with a dense, stiff outer coat. The coat colors may be either blue or silver, with a tan contrast on the face, ears, belly, lower legs and feet. A red or sandy color is also acceptable.

Behavior:

Even though the Australian Terrier is a small dog, it is very confident and usually even-tempered. It makes an excellent watch-dog and will readily alert its owner to the presence of an intruder.

When it is a puppy, it is important to allow the Australian Terrier time to socialize with other dogs. It should not always be picked up whenever another dog approaches. This early socialization will stop it from becoming aggressive towards other dogs when it matures.

Like all terriers, the Australian Terrier can become very bossy towards people. Wise owners will be gentle but quite firm with the dog as it develops. The dog should be protected from over-zealous children and allowed to enjoy their company. As this terrier was originally bred to be fast enough to catch rats in its teeth, any snapping or nipping at children during chasing games should be discouraged. The Australian Terrier makes an excellent companion animal for both single people and families alike. As is the case with most dogs, the Australian Terrier will thrive on the attention it receives from its owners and is easy to train.

Even though the Australian Terrier has a double coat, it is a small dog and should be protected from the cold by a kennel. Even though this dog is small, it still requires exercising... although this can be achieved much quicker and in less space than with a larger dog. Insufficient stimulation and exercise can provoke hostility and unruly behavior. The amount of food required will vary according to the amount of exercise and age, but as a guide the dog will need about 0.5 lb (0.25 kg) per day.

The dog's muzzle and feet should be checked periodically for cuts and sores, as it has a habit of chasing and catching lizards and insects. Although the Australian Terrier copes with the heat very well, its ears also need to be checked for fly bites, and a repellent applied if required. Over-zealous owners may be unkind by washing this dog too frequently. It can suffer eczema from soap and detergents. Regular brushing will remove dirt and promote a lustrous sheen to the coat

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