The Australian Terrier was created from the British rough-coated Terrier. It was presumably brought to Tasmania by colonists from the British Isles in the 80s of the XIX century. To all appearance, the breed was produced by crossing this sturdy terrier with several other canine varieties, including the forefathers of the Manchester Terrier, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, the Skye Terrier, and the Yorkshire Terrier. Its also very likely that Irish and Cairn Terriers were also utilised in its development. The resulted dog was remarkable for moderate size, robust constitution and dauntless nature.\r
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In no time the Australian Terrier achieved local fame as a highly effective rodent exterminator and snake catcher. Its rough, waterproof coat allowed it to operate unceasingly for long hours under rain or shine. Moreover first Australian settlers relied on their little helpers to look after the livestock as well as to guard their dwellings. On top of these responsibilities this dog provided pleasant companionship for its masters.\r
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The Australian Terrier is the first canine variety native to Australia that deserved the official recognition in its homeland and other countries. For the first time it entered the show ring in 1868 when its specimens took part in the dog show in Melbourne, Australia. It became widely known under its current name in 1899.
