Australian Terrier: How should an owner handle adolescent behaviour changes?
When a young Australian Terrier becomes less reliable, return to the last version of the behaviour that was working and rebuild from there. Schedule the first attempt after the dog's normal age-appropriate outlet, not at peak excitement. Return to easier cues, shorten sessions, increase reinforcement, and manage the environment while skills are rebuilt. Keep the easier version in the routine while reliability returns; do not test the hardest version every day.
What can change during adolescence
Australian Terrier's exercise is recorded as Terriers in general have a high energy level, and the Aussie is no exception. Here, that matters because it changes the amount and timing of movement, stimulation, and recovery this situation needs.
Rebuild the behaviour you want
- Return to easier cues, shorten sessions, increase reinforcement, and manage the environment while skills are rebuilt.
- Use this exercise note (Terriers in general have a high energy level, and the Aussie is no exception) to choose the starting amount of movement and the length of the recovery period.
- Keep the easier version in the routine while reliability returns; do not test the hardest version every day.
Arrange an assessment if
Escalate for sudden personality change, pain, disorientation, or aggression that cannot be safely managed.
References
Height: 10-11 inches
AKC page PageMap DataObject > height
Weight: 15-20 pounds
AKC page PageMap DataObject > weight
Life expectancy: 11-15 years
AKC page PageMap DataObject > life_expectancy
Grooming: The Australian Terrier's harsh, weatherproof, double coat does a good job of repelling dirt and mud, and is very easy to maintain. A quick brushing once a week is usually enough to keep it in fine shape. The long hairs that grow in front of and between the eyes can irritate the eyes if left unchecked; fortunately, they are easily plucked out with tweezers…
AKC page Grooming > official section copy
Exercise: Terriers in general have a high energy level, and the Aussie is no exception. The breed is very active and requires regular exercise to keep from becoming bored and unhappy. Boredom leads to undesirable behavior. Daily play sessions, indoors or out, will keep an Aussie happy and well adjusted. However, these sessions must take place is a securely fenced…
AKC page Exercise > official section copy
Training: Aussies, like many terriers, benefit greatly from puppy training classes and introductory obedience with treats, toys, or praise. Aussies are easily bored with routine, so training sessions will be short, whether the owner wants them to be or not. They are independent thinkers, so a firm, consistent approach is necessary. Consideration should be taken…
AKC page Training > official section copy
Official breed description: The Australian Terrier is plucky, spirited and lively. The cheeky self-assured Aussie approaches life with plenty of the terrier curiosity and grit.
AKC page About the Breed > official breed description
Recommended parent-club health tests: ['Patella Evaluation', 'Ophthalmologist Evaluation', 'Thyroid Evaluation']
AKC page Health > Recommended Health Tests From the National Breed Club
Official breed standard: http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/AustralianTerrier.pdf
AKC page The Breed Standard > View Full Breed Standard
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