|
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.
 | 