The forefathers of the Tenterfield Terrier originated in England (also see History of the breed).  The fox hunters of the day found they needed to develop a small dog of great agility that was able to go to ground to chase out vermin from their dens and then able to leap into the saddlebags on the horse to pursue the chase with the hounds.

The early settlers to Australia brought out the forebears of the Tenterfield Terrier as a working dog for vermin.  The breed was widely used throughout England and Australia for ratting, rabbiting as well as fox hunting.  Over the next hundred or so years, the breed became quite established in Australia as a working terrier and family companion.  There was hardly a farm in Australia that did not have at least one of these terriers.  The breed was developed in Australia to the type it is today - a true "Aussie". 

Average Life Span

The Tenterfield Terrier is well known for its lengthy lifespan.  It is not unusual for these dogs to live to be 12-20 years of age.

Average Size and Weight

The height at shoulder is ideally 28 cm (11 inches) with a 2.5 cm (1 inch) variation either way.  The weight to be in proportion to the size of the dog.

Breed personality / Characteristics/ Temperament

The Tenterfield Terrier is a strong, very intelligent, active, agile working terrier of great versatility.  He has proven himself, without question, as a hunter of vermin and of being an extremely loving and loyal pet.

The Tenterfield Terrier is at home whether hunting vermin either large or small, (terriers were bred to flush out prey such as foxes and rats from their dens or earth), on the land and around the home and property, or curled up on a loving knee in front of a fire.  He is an ideal companion for both children and the elderly alike.

Compatibility with Other Pets

The Tenterfield Terrier is very amicable with other pets.  They are often used as companion dogs for larger breeds.  They can become the best of friends with the family cat when introduced as a puppy.  They get along very well with other Tenterfields even when running in a pack.

The Tenterfield Terrier is a true terrier in temperament and therefore will not hesitate to 'stand up for himself' should he feel threatened.

Care Requirements

The Tenterfield Terrier is a simple wash and wear dog.  They need very little keep other than keeping their toenails trimmed, their teeth clean (as with any breed) and an occasional bushing to remove loose hair (especially when dropping summer and winter coats).