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Tenterfield Terriers are known for their outgoing and energetic nature. They are friendly, intelligent and adaptable, making them suitable companions for various households, including families with children, singles and seniors.
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Tenterfield Terriers are known for their outgoing and energetic nature. They are friendly, intelligent and adaptable, making them suitable companions for various households, including families with children, singles and seniors.
Questions To Ask A Breeder
- Are you are registered breeder?
- Can we meet in person?
- Have they been socialised?
Breed Characteristics
Grooming
Exercise
Size Range
The Ultimate Tenterfield Terrier Guide
About Tenterfield Terrier
Tenterfield Terriers are small, adaptable dogs that originated in Australia. Known for their agility and energetic personalities, these terriers have captured the hearts of many dog enthusiasts.
Their alert and responsive demeanour makes them excellent watchdogs, always keen to protect their family.
Lifespan
12 to 14 years
Weight
3.1 to 4.5 kg
Height
24 to 28 cm
Grooming
Tenterfield Terriers have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming.
Origins
The Tenterfield Terrier’s roots can be traced back to 19th-century Australia, where they were initially bred as working dogs to control vermin populations. Their ancestors were primarily English Toy Terriers (now known as the Black and Tan English Toy Terrier) brought to Australia by British settlers.
Over time, they were crossbred with other terrier breeds to produce the Tenterfield Terrier we know today.
The breed’s name is thought to originate from the town of Tenterfield in New South Wales, where they gained popularity as a versatile working dog. Tenterfield Terriers were known to be skilled ratters and excellent rabbit hunters, making them valuable companions for settlers in rural areas.
The breed’s popularity grew, and by the late 20th century, efforts were made to standardise the breed and gain official recognition.
In 1997, the Tenterfield Terrier was recognized by Australian breeder associations, with the breed standard published soon after.
Today, the Tenterfield Terrier is a well-established breed in Australia, known for its agility and spirited temperament.
Key Characteristics Of Tenterfield Terriers
Are Tenterfield Terriers Family-Friendly?
Yes, Tenterfield Terriers make good family dogs. They have a happy, playful nature and usually get along well with children. However, they’re small and should be handled with care.
They aren’t the best fit for multi-pet households, but can live with other larger dogs if they’re introduced at a young age.
Common Health Issues & Considerations
Tenterfield Terriers may suffer from:
Patellar Luxation
A condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal location within the knee joint.
Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease
A disorder of the hip joint where the head of the femur bone degenerates, leading to pain and lameness.
Dental Issues
Nature / Temperament
Bold, Alert, Fearless, Enthusiastic, Playful
Suitable Environment
Tenterfield Terriers are energetic, intelligent and adaptable dogs that make excellent companions for a variety of households. They are small dogs and they aren’t great shedders, so they’re suited to living indoors.
Other Considerations
● The Tenterfield Terrier is one of the few truly Australian dog breeds.
● Until very recently, the Tenterfield Terrier was named the Miniature Fox Terrier or the Mini Foxie.
● The Tenterfield is an active dog breed with a tendency to be vocal, so it may not be ideal for apartment living.
How can I take good care of my Tenterfield Terrier?
Nutrition
High-quality commercial dog food, formulated for small breeds with high energy levels, is usually a suitable choice for these terriers.
Ensure that the food provides an appropriate balance of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.
Treats should be given sparingly, and table scraps should be avoided to ensure they receive the appropriate nutrients. Always provide fresh water for your terrier.
Grooming
A weekly brushing for your Tenterfield Terrier is usually enough to remove dead hair and maintain a healthy coat. They are relatively low-shedding dogs, which may make them more suitable for individuals with mild allergies.
Recommended Grooming Tips
Regular nail trimming is essential for your terrier’s comfort and to prevent overgrown nails, which can cause pain and difficulty walking. Trim their nails every 3 to 4 weeks or as needed.
Bathe your Tenterfield Terrier as needed, typically every few weeks or when they get dirty.
Tenterfield Terriers, like many small breeds, can be prone to dental issues. Brush their teeth several times a week using a dog-specific toothpaste and toothbrush to prevent plaque buildup and maintain good oral health.
Exercise
Aim for at least one or two daily walks of 30 minutes each. This will not only provide physical exercise but also mental stimulation and an opportunity for socialisation.
Tenterfield Terriers enjoy exploring and sniffing their surroundings, so varying the walking route can keep them engaged.
Training
Tenterfield Terriers are intelligent and eager to learn, making them highly trainable dogs. Positive reinforcement and consistency are key to successful training.
Start training and socialising your terrier from a young age to ensure they grow up to be well-behaved and confident adults.
This is general information and should not be relied on for adopting or purchasing advice.
Most Asked Tenterfield Terrier Questions
No, Tenterfield Terrier puppies should not live outdoors. Like most other dog breeds, they thrive when they are part of a family and live indoors with their human companions.
Housetraining Tenterfield Terrier puppies tends to be relatively easy. Despite their small size, they are a very intelligent breed and pick up on things quickly.
It may be good to try crate training if you have difficulty housetraining your Tenterfield Terrier.
Finding a reputable Tenterfield Terrier breeder is the key to getting a healthy, well-behaved Tenterfield Terrier puppy. A puppy from an ethical breeder has a much better chance of growing into a calm, gentle adult dog.
The average cost of a Tenterfield Terrier for sale is usually around AUD $1000 to $1500.
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