The Australian Terrier Club of America

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Australian Terriers can be great performance dogs. They were bred to be jack of all trades around farms, and their duties included herding livestock, killing vermin and venomous snakes. However, they were also the first terrier bred to be companions, small enough to curl up on the hearth (or bed ) at night. This resulted in a fast, agile, independent working dog during the day and a companion at night.

The Aussies want to please so keep this in mind when training. A strong foundation of motivation and desire is essential to training the aussie. Tugging and play with toys, as well as food, keeps them guessing and trying to figure out how to achieve their goals (food and play ) which coincides with your goal ( a well trained dog). Surprise and excitement keeps them on their toes. Training sessions work better as 5 - 10 min sessions throughout the day, verses 60 minute repetitions that quickly bore the dogs. Your training must stop with them wanting to continue to work. Master this and your Aussie will work his heart out for you.