Australian Terrier: A Spirited and Loyal Dog Breed
The Australian Terrier is a small but sturdy terrier breed known for its spirited personality, intelligence, and fearless nature. Originally developed in Australia to hunt rodents and snakes while also serving as a loyal companion, the Australian Terrier combines the bold confidence of a working terrier with a friendly and affectionate temperament. These alert and energetic dogs form strong bonds with their families and thrive with owners who can provide regular activity, interaction, and consistent training to keep their active minds engaged. Australian Terriers are typically adaptable and eager to participate in family life, making them well suited for individuals, seniors, and active households looking for a compact companion with plenty of personality. With their weather-resistant coat, lively expression, and confident attitude, the Australian Terrier is an excellent choice for owners seeking a small dog with the heart and determination of a much larger breed.
⭐ 3 Things You May Not Know About the Australian Terrier
- The Australian Terrier is the first native dog breed officially recognized from Australia.
- The breed was developed to control snakes, rats, and other pests in the harsh Australian outback.
- Despite their small size, Australian Terriers are known for their fearless personality and strong working instincts.
Overview
- AKC Height: 10–11 inches
- AKC Weight: 14–16 pounds
- Colors: Blue and Tan, Sandy, or Red
- Life Expectancy: 11–15 years
- Group: Terrier Group
🐾 Quick Facts About the Australian Terrier
- Energy Level: High — Australian Terriers are lively dogs that need regular exercise and mental stimulation.
- Grooming Needs: Moderate — Their harsh wiry coat benefits from regular brushing and occasional grooming maintenance.
- Good With Kids: Yes — Australian Terriers are generally affectionate, playful, and loyal with families and children.
- Trainability: High — Intelligent and eager to learn, they respond well to positive reinforcement training.
- Barking Level: Moderate to High — Australian Terriers are naturally alert and may bark frequently at unfamiliar activity.
History & Origin
The Australian Terrier was developed in Australia during the 1800s as a rugged and versatile working terrier capable of handling the harsh conditions of the Australian frontier. Early settlers needed a small but fearless dog that could control rats and snakes, guard property, and serve as a loyal companion on remote farms and ranches. To create the breed, various British terrier breeds were brought to Australia and selectively bred for toughness, adaptability, and working ability.
Breeds believed to have contributed to the Australian Terrier include the Cairn Terrier, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier, and several rough-coated working terriers from Great Britain. Over time, Australian breeders refined these dogs into a hardy terrier well suited for the country’s rugged terrain, extreme climate, and demanding farm life. The breed became especially valued for its courage, alertness, and ability to work independently while remaining closely bonded to its owners.
Unlike many terriers developed primarily for hunting underground quarry, the Australian Terrier served as a true all-purpose farm dog. In addition to controlling vermin, the breed was used for watchdog duties and companionship, earning a reputation as both a dependable worker and affectionate family dog. Its rough weather-resistant coat provided protection from brush, rough terrain, and changing weather conditions while working outdoors.
The Australian Terrier eventually became one of the first native Australian breeds to gain international recognition. Although small in size, the breed continued to be admired for its spirited personality, intelligence, and remarkable resilience. Modern Australian Terriers still display many traits shaped by their working heritage, including confidence, curiosity, alertness, and strong problem-solving ability. Beneath the breed’s compact and charming appearance remains a tough and determined little terrier developed to thrive under demanding conditions.
Physical Characteristics
The Australian Terrier is a small but rugged terrier breed developed in Australia to control rodents, guard property, and serve as a hardy companion capable of handling rough terrain and harsh outdoor conditions. Although compact in size, the Australian Terrier is built with surprising toughness, agility, and endurance, reflecting its working-terrier heritage rather than purely ornamental breeding.
This breed has a sturdy, low-set body with a strong neck, moderately deep chest, solid bone structure, and well-developed muscles that give it a balanced and durable appearance. The body is slightly longer than tall, contributing to stability and flexibility while moving through dense brush or uneven terrain. Australian Terriers should appear compact and workmanlike rather than delicate or refined.
The head is long and strong with a flat skull, alert expression, and dark almond-shaped eyes that reflect the breed’s intelligence and curiosity. Their small erect ears stand upright and contribute to the breed’s constantly attentive appearance. The muzzle is powerful enough for vermin control work while remaining balanced with the rest of the head.
One of the breed’s most recognizable features is its harsh, weather-resistant double coat. The outer coat is rough, straight, and protective, while the softer undercoat provides insulation. Distinctive furnishings around the neck and chest create a noticeable ruff, and the breed often has a softer topknot of hair on the head that contrasts slightly in texture from the harsher body coat.
Coat colors commonly include blue and tan, solid red, or sandy shades. The Australian Terrier’s coat was developed for practical outdoor function, helping protect the dog from weather, dirt, and rough vegetation while still remaining relatively manageable.
The breed moves with confidence, agility, and efficient terrier movement. Despite its small size, the Australian Terrier projects strength, alertness, toughness, and lively energy in a highly compact package.
For a broader comparison of how this breed’s size compares to others, see our Dog Size & Weight Guide.
Temperament & Personality
The Australian Terrier is known for being spirited, intelligent, affectionate, and highly confident. Like many terriers, this breed possesses a bold personality that often seems much larger than its actual size. Australian Terriers are lively little dogs that thrive on interaction, activity, and close companionship with their family.
With family members, the breed is usually loving, loyal, and highly people-oriented. Many Australian Terriers form strong emotional bonds with their owners and enjoy participating in daily household routines. They are often happiest when included in family activities rather than being treated as independent outdoor dogs.
The breed tends to be alert and observant, making it an excellent watchdog despite its small stature. Australian Terriers usually notice environmental changes quickly and may bark to announce unfamiliar people or activity around the home. Their naturally alert nature contributes greatly to their terrier personality.
Australian Terriers are generally intelligent and curious, often exploring their environment with enthusiasm and determination. Because of their working heritage, they usually retain strong prey drive and instinctive interest in chasing small animals, rodents, or moving objects.
Although affectionate, the breed also maintains the independent and confident temperament typical of terriers. Australian Terriers often prefer doing things on their own terms and can display stubbornness if training lacks consistency or engagement.
Most Australian Terriers are social and friendly with people when properly socialized, although some may initially be reserved around strangers. Early socialization helps build confidence and prevents excessive territorial or reactive behavior.
Because of their terrier instincts, some individuals may be assertive toward unfamiliar dogs or attempt to dominate smaller pets. Proper introductions, socialization, and supervision are important, especially in multi-pet households.
The Australian Terrier’s combination of loyalty, confidence, affection, intelligence, and entertaining personality makes it an especially engaging companion for owners who enjoy active, spirited small dogs with strong character and emotional connection.
For a broader overview of personality differences between breed groups, visit our Dog Breed Temperament Guide.
Exercise & Training
The Australian Terrier is an active and mentally alert breed that requires regular exercise and stimulation to remain healthy and well-balanced. Although smaller than many working breeds, these dogs possess considerable energy, curiosity, and determination beneath their compact appearance.
Daily walks, active play sessions, interactive games, and mentally engaging activities are important for keeping the breed physically and emotionally satisfied. Many Australian Terriers enjoy exploring outdoors, playing fetch, participating in agility activities, and engaging in scent or problem-solving games that stimulate their natural terrier instincts.
Mental stimulation is especially important because of the breed’s intelligence and curiosity. Without enough engagement, Australian Terriers may become bored and develop nuisance barking, digging, chewing, or stubborn behaviors. Terriers often create their own entertainment when insufficiently stimulated.
Training should begin early and remain consistent throughout adulthood. Australian Terriers are intelligent learners but can also be independent and strong-willed. Positive reinforcement methods using praise, treats, and engaging training sessions usually produce the best results.
Harsh correction or repetitive drilling may lead to stubbornness or reduced cooperation. This breed responds best to owners who remain calm, confident, and patient while keeping training varied and mentally interesting.
Early socialization is important to help develop confidence and encourage stable behavior around unfamiliar people, environments, sounds, and animals. Puppies should experience a wide range of controlled positive situations during development to help prevent excessive barking or territorial tendencies later in life.
Because of the breed’s prey drive, some Australian Terriers may instinctively chase small animals or moving objects if not properly managed. Secure fencing and reliable leash training are important for safety.
The Australian Terrier adapts relatively well to apartment living if daily exercise and mental stimulation needs are consistently met. However, the breed thrives best with owners who actively engage with it through training, games, and regular interaction.
For owners who appreciate lively, intelligent small dogs with personality and confidence, the Australian Terrier can become an exceptionally entertaining and loyal companion.
Learn more on our Dog Training Page.
Grooming & Coat Care
The Australian Terrier’s harsh double coat is relatively practical and manageable compared to many long-coated companion breeds, but regular grooming is still important for maintaining healthy skin and coat condition. The breed’s coat was designed to provide protection from weather and rough terrain while resisting dirt and debris during outdoor work.
The harsh outer coat should feel rough and weather-resistant, while the softer undercoat provides insulation. Weekly brushing is generally sufficient to remove loose hair, prevent tangles, and maintain coat condition. Particular attention should be given to furnishings around the legs, chest, and neck where tangling can occasionally occur.
Australian Terriers are considered relatively low shedders compared to many double-coated breeds, although regular brushing still helps manage loose hair and supports healthy skin circulation. Slicker brushes, pin brushes, and metal combs are commonly used for routine maintenance.
Hand-stripping may occasionally be recommended for maintaining proper coat texture, particularly in show dogs, although many companion dogs are clipped for easier maintenance. Repeated clipping may soften the natural harsh coat texture over time.
Bathing should be done only as needed because excessive bathing can soften the harsh coat and strip natural oils that help protect the skin and maintain weather resistance. Most Australian Terriers naturally stay relatively clean with routine brushing and occasional bathing.
Routine grooming should also include nail trimming, ear cleaning, dental care, and regular inspection of the skin for irritation, debris, or parasites after outdoor activity.
The breed’s manageable grooming requirements make it appealing for owners who want a terrier with a rugged appearance and practical coat without the extreme maintenance associated with many heavily coated breeds. With consistent care, the Australian Terrier maintains its characteristic rough-coated charm, healthy skin, and sturdy outdoor-ready appearance.
Learn more on our Dog Grooming Page.
Health Overview
The Australian Terrier is a small but sturdy working terrier originally developed to control vermin and serve as a tough, adaptable companion in the harsh conditions of Australia. Known for its confidence, intelligence, and spirited personality, the Australian Terrier is generally considered a healthy and long-lived breed, but like many small terriers, it can still be prone to certain inherited and structural health concerns. Understanding common Australian Terrier health problems and recommended breeder health testing can help puppy buyers make more informed decisions when selecting a healthy puppy. Because this breed combines a compact frame, active temperament, and strong terrier instincts, maintaining healthy joints, skin condition, dental health, and overall mobility is especially important throughout the dog’s life.
Health issues sometimes seen in Australian Terriers may include patellar luxation, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, diabetes, allergies, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, cruciate ligament injuries, and certain eye disorders. Some individuals may also develop dental disease or obesity-related joint stress if body weight and preventive care are not managed properly. While not every Australian Terrier will develop these conditions, understanding the breed’s health tendencies allows owners to make better long-term decisions regarding breeding, exercise, nutrition, preventive care, and veterinary monitoring.
Health Testing & Responsible Breeding
Responsible Australian Terrier breeders should perform appropriate health screenings before breeding in order to reduce the likelihood of inherited conditions being passed to future generations. Many puppy buyers are encouraged to ask about health testing, but they are often unsure which evaluations are most important for this breed. In the Australian Terrier, careful attention to orthopedic, eye, endocrine, and overall structural health is especially valuable.
Buyers should ask whether the sire and dam have completed patella evaluations and whether eye examinations or additional orthopedic screening have been performed when appropriate. Some responsible breeders may also discuss diabetes, epilepsy, thyroid disease, or Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease if those concerns have appeared within their bloodlines. Because the breed was developed to remain active and physically capable despite its small size, maintaining strong movement, stable structure, and long-term mobility should remain important priorities in responsible breeding programs.
At this time, Australian Terrier breeder health testing relies primarily on veterinary evaluations, orthopedic screening, eye certification, and pedigree knowledge rather than a large number of widely used breed-specific DNA tests. However, responsible breeders should still be willing to openly discuss inherited health concerns within their breeding program and explain the purpose of any testing they perform. Ethical breeders understand that preserving the Australian Terrier involves much more than maintaining appearance or personality alone — it also includes protecting healthy structure, sound temperament, and long-term quality of life.
Before Australian Terrier puppies are placed into new homes, they should receive a complete veterinary wellness examination that evaluates the heart, eyes, knees, bite alignment, parasite status, overall structure, and general physical development. Because smaller terrier breeds can sometimes develop luxating patellas, retained baby teeth, or orthopedic concerns during growth, careful early monitoring is especially important. Puppies should also leave with age-appropriate vaccinations, deworming records, feeding guidance, and recommendations for safe exercise, training, and socialization during puppyhood.
A responsible Australian Terrier breeder should willingly provide documentation of completed health clearances and openly discuss inherited health concerns affecting the breed. Puppy buyers should be cautious of breeders who avoid health discussions, refuse to provide testing information, or claim their dogs are completely free of health problems. Ethical breeding focuses on reducing inherited risk through careful selection, health screening, pedigree knowledge, and lifelong breeder support rather than making unrealistic promises.
Preventive Care & Long-Term Wellness
Maintaining healthy body condition and regular exercise is especially important for the Australian Terrier because this breed is naturally energetic, alert, and highly active despite its small size. Without sufficient physical activity and mental stimulation, some individuals may become bored, vocal, stubborn, or develop undesirable terrier behaviors. Regular exercise helps support cardiovascular health, joint stability, muscle tone, and emotional well-being throughout life.
Dental care is another important part of long-term wellness in the Australian Terrier. Smaller breeds can be prone to tartar buildup, gum disease, retained baby teeth, and dental crowding if preventive care is neglected. Routine brushing, professional dental evaluations, and early dental maintenance can help reduce long-term complications and discomfort.
The breed’s harsh weather-resistant coat also requires routine grooming and coat maintenance. Although the Australian Terrier is not considered excessively high-maintenance, regular brushing and occasional trimming help maintain healthy skin and coat condition. Grooming sessions also provide an excellent opportunity to monitor for skin irritation, lumps, parasites, or coat-quality changes.
Because Australian Terriers are intelligent and independent thinkers, mental enrichment and structured training also contribute to overall wellness. Consistent routines, interactive play, and positive reinforcement training help support emotional balance and reduce stress-related behaviors.
Routine veterinary examinations throughout adulthood and senior years remain important for monitoring joint stability, thyroid function, eye condition, dental health, mobility, and overall wellness. Early detection of developing health concerns often allows for more successful long-term management and improved quality of life.
Lifespan & Senior Australian Terrier Care
The Australian Terrier is often a long-lived breed, with many individuals living approximately 12 to 15 years when responsibly bred and properly cared for. Senior Australian Terriers may gradually develop arthritis, dental disease, hearing decline, vision changes, reduced stamina, or decreased mobility as they age. Some older dogs may also become more prone to weight gain or stiffness if exercise levels decrease during the senior years.
As Australian Terriers enter their senior years, many owners focus on maintaining moderate low-impact exercise, healthy weight management, joint support, regular dental care, supportive bedding, and routine wellness monitoring. Because the breed often remains mentally alert and highly engaged with its family throughout life, continued interaction, enrichment, and companionship remain important even during old age.
With attentive care, preventive veterinary support, responsible breeding, and a healthy lifestyle, many Australian Terriers continue to thrive as spirited, affectionate, and highly entertaining companions well into their senior years.
You can find information about the diseases that affect this breed in our Dog Health Dictionary
Is the Australian Terrier Dog Breed Right for You?
The Australian Terrier is a spirited, intelligent, and affectionate small terrier breed known for its rough coat, alert personality, and confident attitude. Originally developed to hunt vermin and serve as a hardy companion, this breed is energetic, loyal, and full of character.
While entertaining and adaptable, the Australian Terrier is not the ideal fit for every household. Here’s a quick overview to help you decide:
✔ Ideal for:
- People looking for a small but energetic companion
- Owners willing to provide regular interaction and training
- Families with respectful children
- Homes able to provide daily exercise and mental stimulation
- People interested in an alert and loyal companion dog
❌ Not Ideal for:
- People wanting a completely quiet or low-energy dog
- Homes where the dog will frequently be left alone for long periods
- Owners unwilling to manage terrier digging or chasing instincts
- People looking for a highly obedient or inactive breed
- Homes unprepared for barking and strong prey drive behaviors
Where to Find an Australian Terrier
If you’re interested in bringing a dog of this breed into your home, consider adopting from a rescue organization or finding a reputable breeder.
Find a Reliable Rescue:
Read our page about how to adopt from a reliable dog rescue.
Find reliable rescues through our Dog Rescue Directory.
Find a Responsible Breeder:
Read our information page about buying a healthy puppy from a responsible breeder.
Find responsible breeders through our Dog Breeders Directory.
Puppy Considerations
Australian Terrier puppies are curious, energetic, and full of personality. Early socialization and positive training are important to help puppies develop confidence and appropriate behavior while learning how to channel their terrier instincts.
These puppies are intelligent and often eager to explore everything around them. Like many terriers, they may naturally enjoy digging, chasing, and investigating small movements and sounds.
Puppies benefit from:
- Early socialization with people, dogs, and new environments
- Positive reinforcement training and clear routines
- Daily exercise and mentally stimulating activities
- Interactive toys and supervised playtime
- Consistent boundaries and gentle guidance
Because of their alert nature and terrier instincts, bored Australian Terrier puppies may develop unwanted behaviors such as excessive barking or destructive chewing if not properly engaged.
Living With an Australian Terrier
Living with an Australian Terrier is often rewarding for owners who enjoy lively and affectionate companion dogs. These terriers generally form close bonds with their families and enjoy being involved in everyday household activities.
Although small in size, Australian Terriers are energetic and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to remain healthy and balanced. Many enjoy walks, games, training sessions, and interactive activities that keep them mentally engaged.
The breed’s rough coat is relatively low-maintenance compared to some other terriers, but regular brushing and occasional grooming help keep the coat healthy and tidy.
Families with respectful children often do well with this breed due to its playful and loyal personality. However, supervision around smaller pets may be important because of the breed’s strong prey drive.
Feeding a balanced, high-quality diet and maintaining a healthy weight are important for supporting long-term health, energy levels, and overall wellness. Regular veterinary care, grooming, exercise, and companionship all contribute to helping the breed thrive.
Final Thoughts…
The Australian Terrier is a spirited, intelligent, and loyal breed that thrives with owners who appreciate the lively personality and confidence typical of terriers. Their affectionate nature, alertness, and adaptability make them rewarding companions for many households.
With proper training, socialization, exercise, and companionship, the Australian Terrier can become a devoted and entertaining lifelong family companion.
Are you considering adding an Australian Terrier to your family?
🐶 Australian Terrier FAQs
How long do Australian Terriers live?
Australian Terriers typically have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. With proper nutrition, routine veterinary care, and regular activity, many live long, healthy lives. As a small breed, dental care and weight management are especially important as they age.
What is the Australian Terrier temperament like?
Australian Terriers are known for being spirited, confident, and loyal. Despite their small size, they have a bold terrier personality and are alert and courageous. They form strong bonds with their families and enjoy being involved in daily activities.
Are Australian Terriers good family dogs?
Yes, Australian Terriers can make excellent family dogs, particularly in homes that understand terrier behavior. They generally do well with children when properly socialized, though supervision is recommended with very young kids due to their small size and assertive nature.
Do Australian Terriers shed a lot?
Australian Terriers are considered low to moderate shedders. Their harsh, wiry coat requires regular brushing to remove loose hair and occasional trimming to maintain its shape and texture.
Are Australian Terriers easy to train?
Australian Terriers are intelligent but can be independent and strong-willed, which is common in terrier breeds. They respond best to consistent, positive training methods. Early training and socialization help channel their energy and confidence in positive ways.
🐕 Related Breeds You Might Like
If you’re interested in the Australian Terrier, you may also enjoy learning about these similar small and terrier-type breeds:
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Cairn Terrier – A lively, confident terrier with a playful personality and strong independence.
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Norwich Terrier – A small but sturdy terrier known for alertness, affection, and adaptability.
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Border Terrier – Friendly and resilient, combining terrier spirit with a more easygoing temperament.
🐾 Lisa’s Picks for Australian Terriers
As someone who has worked with dogs for over 50 years—including more than 20 years helping with housebreaking and everyday care—I’m often asked for product recommendations. I’ve found that a few simple items can make a big difference in a dog’s comfort and daily routine.
If you have an Australian Terrier or are planning to bring one into your home, these products and tips can help support your journey together.
🛏️ 1. Dog Beds
👉 My Tip: Waterproof Bed Protection (My Personal Favorite Trick)
One thing I personally do is use twin-size waterproof mattress covers over larger dog beds. They’re easy to wash, protect the bed beneath, and save money long-term—especially helpful for puppies, seniors, or heavy shedders. You can find different colors and patterns that fit your decor.
For tiny dog beds, you can use waterproof pillow covers that fit over the beds to protect them and save money long-term.
I use the same idea around the house, too. Washable, waterproof couch covers are a simple way to protect furniture from dirt, shedding, and accidents—especially helpful with puppies, seniors, or dogs that love the couch.
* Orthopedic Foam Dog Beds:
A high-quality orthopedic bed is one of the best investments you can make for your dog. I recommend these for every breed, once they are out of the chewing stage, especially as they age. They provide joint support, improve comfort, and help dogs truly rest.
* Tough Dog Beds for Dogs That Chew:
If your dog tends to chew or destroy their bedding, a standard plush bed may not last long. In these cases, I recommend tough, chew-resistant dog beds made with reinforced materials.
These are designed to hold up better against digging, scratching, and chewing, and can save you from constantly replacing beds. While no bed is completely indestructible, choosing a more durable option can make a big difference.
* Puppies need Simple Washable Bedding:
For young puppies that are still learning house training, I often suggest starting with simple, washable blankets instead of an expensive dog bed.
Thick towels, fleece throws, or washable pads work very well during this stage. They’re easy to clean, quick to replace, and help protect your main dog beds until your puppy is more reliable. Once house training is more consistent, you can transition to a more permanent, supportive bed.
✂️ 2. Proper Grooming Tools for the Australian Terrier Coat
Australian Terriers have a harsh, wiry outer coat with a softer undercoat, so using the right grooming tools makes a big difference.
A gentle slicker brush works well to remove loose hair and prevent small tangles, while a metal comb helps keep the coat neat—especially around the face, legs, and furnishings. Regular hand-stripping is often recommended to maintain the proper texture and color of the coat, although trimming is sometimes used for easier maintenance.
With consistent grooming, the coat stays neat, healthy, and true to its natural texture.
Regular brushing:
- Helps prevent mats
- Reduces shedding
- Keeps the coat healthy
🦴 3. Treats (Great for All Dogs)
- Jerky Treats for Dogs: Almost all dogs love soft, easy-to-break NATURAL jerky treats. They’re perfect for rewarding good behavior without overfeeding. Soft jerky treats provide protein and are easy to chew.
- Tiny Treats for Small Dogs
For small dogs, I recommend using very tiny, NATURAL training treats that are soft and easy to chew. This lets you reward often without overfeeding.
- Stronger Chew Treats for Larger Dogs
Dogs that enjoy a more robust chewing experience will benefit from stronger chew treats. Some larger dogs may still go through them quickly, while others will take more time—so it often depends on the individual dog.
👉 My Tip: Check Ingredient Labels
I always recommend checking the ingredient label when choosing treats at the store. Dogs don’t need added sugar or artificial ingredients, and some treats can upset their stomach or cause diarrhea. Look for all-natural ingredient labels, and single ingredient or few ingredient labels are preferred.
It’s important to note that even among the same breed, some dogs enjoy chewing more than others, and many have preferences for certain types of chews. If you notice bleeding gums during chewing, it’s a good idea to have your dog examined by a veterinarian to rule out any dental issues.
🧠 4. Enrichment Toys for Mental Stimulation
Australian Terriers are intelligent, so giving them something to do is important.
An enrichment toy can help:
- Prevent boredom
- Reduce unwanted behaviors
- Keep their mind engaged
When choosing an enrichment toy, think about your dog’s personality and needs. Some dogs love puzzle toys and mental challenges, while others are happier with something they can chew or carry around.
🐕 5. Safe, Comfortable Harness, Collar & Leash
From my experience, choosing the right walking gear can make a big difference in both safety and control. Some harnesses and collars are designed to help prevent dogs from slipping out, which is especially important for strong or easily startled dogs, and those are the types I personally recommend for safety.
Harness: A quality, comfortable properly fitted harness can make walks more comfortable and easier to manage—especially for dogs that tend to pull or get excited outdoors. If you have a dog that tries to wiggle out of their harness, search for an “escape proof” harness that has an extra strap towards the back.
Collar: I use and prefer safety martingale collars, as they can help prevent dogs from backing out of their collar while still being more gentle than traditional collars when used correctly.
Leash: Choose a lightweight leash for small dogs and a sturdier, heavier leash for larger dogs to ensure good control. Nylon leashes are strong and long-lasting. Some leashes also include a comfortable padded handle.
👉 My Tip: Avoid Retractable Leashes
I don’t recommend retractable leashes, as they can break and tangle easily and create safety issues and tripping hazards.
💡 Lisa’s Tip:
You don’t need a lot of products to care for a dog well… just the right ones. Focus on comfort, consistency, and routine, and you’ll make life easier for both you and your dog.
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