How much exercise does an Australian Terrier need?

Australian Terriers need 30-60 minutes of active engagement daily: about 30 minutes of physical exercise like brisk walks or yard patrol, plus 15-20 minutes of mental stimulation through activities like earthdog trials, flirt pole games, or puzzle toys.

Do Australian Terriers shed a lot?

No, Australian Terriers are low-shedding dogs. Their double coat catches dead hair, which needs to be brushed or hand-stripped out weekly. They are considered 'hypoallergenic' friendly due to low dander and shedding, though no dog is 100% allergen-free.

Are Australian Terriers easy to train?

Australian Terriers are moderately trainable. They are intelligent but independent with a 'what's in it for me?' attitude. Positive reinforcement with high-value rewards works best. Harsh methods will cause them to shut down or fight back.

What health problems do Australian Terriers have?

The most critical concern is Diabetes Mellitus - Australian Terriers are 32 times more likely to develop diabetes than mixed-breed dogs. Other issues include luxating patella, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (hip joint degeneration in puppies), and allergic dermatitis.

How long do Australian Terriers live?

Australian Terriers are a long-lived breed, typically living 11-15 years with proper care. Annual blood glucose screening starting at age 5 is recommended due to their high diabetes risk.

Are Australian Terriers good with cats?

Caution is advised. They can coexist with cats if raised together, but a running cat may still trigger their strong prey drive. They were bred to kill rats and snakes, so their chase-and-grab instinct is hardwired.

How much does an Australian Terrier cost?

Puppies from reputable breeders cost $1,200-2,500 USD ($2,500-4,000 AUD in Australia, £800-1,500 in the UK). Monthly costs run $120-200 for food, insurance, and grooming. Note: if your dog develops diabetes, expect an additional $100-200/month for insulin and monitoring.

Do Australian Terriers bark a lot?

Yes, Australian Terriers are alert watchdogs bred to bark at intruders and snakes. They will bark at passersby, delivery trucks, and unusual noises. Training 'quiet' is essential, and this can be a dealbreaker for apartment dwellers with noise restrictions.

Are Australian Terriers hypoallergenic?

Australian Terriers are considered hypoallergenic-friendly due to their low-shedding, wiry coat that produces less dander than many breeds. However, no dog is 100% allergen-free. Their harsh coat also produces less oil and odor than hounds or retrievers.

Are Golden Retrievers good family dogs?

Yes, Golden Retrievers are exceptional family dogs. They are patient, gentle, and form strong bonds with all family members including children. Their tolerant nature and love of play makes them ideal companions for active families.

How much exercise does a Golden Retriever need?

Golden Retrievers need 60-90 minutes of exercise daily. This should include walks, fetch, swimming (they love water), and mental stimulation through training or puzzle toys.

Do Golden Retrievers shed a lot?

Yes, Golden Retrievers are heavy shedders. They have a dense double coat that sheds year-round with heavier shedding twice a year during seasonal coat changes. Regular brushing helps manage loose fur.

Are Golden Retrievers easy to train?

Yes, Golden Retrievers are one of the easiest breeds to train. They are eager to please, food-motivated, and respond well to positive reinforcement. They excel in obedience and are often used as service dogs.

What health problems do Golden Retrievers have?

The most significant concern is cancer, affecting up to 60% of Golden Retrievers. Other common issues include hip dysplasia (19.8%), elbow dysplasia, eye conditions like pigmentary uveitis, and skin conditions like ichthyosis.

How long do Golden Retrievers live?

Golden Retrievers typically live 10-12 years. This is slightly shorter than average for their size, largely due to high cancer rates in the breed.

Are Golden Retrievers good with cats?

Yes, Golden Retrievers are generally good with cats, especially when raised together. Their soft mouth and gentle temperament make them one of the more cat-friendly large breeds.

How much does a Golden Retriever cost?

Puppies from reputable breeders cost $1,500-3,500. Monthly costs average $60-100 for food and $60-120 for pet insurance. Expect higher insurance premiums due to cancer risk.

Do Golden Retrievers bark a lot?

Golden Retrievers have a medium barking tendency. They will alert bark but are not excessive barkers. They may bark when excited or seeking attention.

Are Golden Retrievers hypoallergenic?

No, Golden Retrievers are not hypoallergenic. They shed heavily and produce dander. Consider a Poodle or Goldendoodle if allergies are a concern.

Australian Terrier vs Golden Retriever

Q: Are Australian Terriers good family dogs?

Yes, Australian Terriers are affectionate and playful with respectful children, but they won't tolerate rough handling like a Golden Retriever might. They do best in homes with older children who understand how to interact respectfully with dogs.

A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.

Terrier

Australian Terrier

Also known as: Aussie, Australian Rough

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The Australian Terrier is a small, robust breed known for its spirited personality, intelligence, and loyalty. Originally bred to hunt vermin and guard homes, this terrier is both a devoted companion and an alert watchdog, characterized by its distinctive rough, weather-resistant coat and keen expression.

Size

Small

Energy

Medium

Lifespan

11-15 yrs

Height

25-28 cm

Weight

6.8-9.1 kg

SportingRetriever

Golden Retriever

Also known as: Golden, Goldie, Yellow Retriever

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The Golden Retriever is a friendly and intelligent dog breed known for its gentle temperament and striking golden coat. Originally bred for retrieving game, they are highly trainable and make excellent family pets due to their affectionate nature and loyalty.

Size

Large

Energy

High

Lifespan

10-12 yrs

Height

55-61 cm

Quick Comparison

Trait	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Energy
Trainability
Grooming Needs
Family Friendly
Independence

Key Characteristics

Good with Kids
Good with Dogs
Good with Cats
Hypoallergenic
Apartment Friendly
First-Time Owner OK

Detail	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Size	Small	Large
Energy Level	Medium	High
Grooming	Medium	Medium
Trainability	Moderate	Easy
Barking Level	High	Medium
Shedding Level	Low	High
Housing	Yard	Yard

Owner Fit & Decision Guide

Owner Match

Trait	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Experience Level	Beginner (with conditions)	Beginner
First-Time Owner
Ideal Owner	Confident beginner or experienced owner willing to train consistently. Works from home or has flexible schedule. Single-dog household preferred, or with opposite-sex passive dog. No small prey animals. Comfortable with managing barking through training.	Active individual or family with time for daily exercise and grooming. Works from home or can provide midday breaks. Tolerant of shedding and muddy paws.

Australian Terrier Dealbreakers

Want a silent dog
Have pocket pets (hamsters, rats) that roam
Want a dog that can be off-leash in unfenced areas
Unwilling to manage potential dog-aggression
Passive or permissive owner (if you treat them like a baby, they will become a tyrant)

Golden Retriever Dealbreakers

Cannot tolerate dog hair everywhere
Work long hours away from home
Not financially prepared for cancer treatment
Want a low-maintenance dog

Surrender Risk

Factor	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Risk Level	Low	Low to Medium
Primary Reasons	Barking complaints from neighbors, Incompatibility with other pets (chasing cats, fighting dogs), Owners buy thinking they are low-maintenance small dogs and are overwhelmed by their big-dog energy and tenacity	Size/energy underestimated for 70lb sporting dog, Shedding overwhelms owners - golden hair on every surface, Health costs from dysplasia or cancer diagnosis

Temperament & Personality

Behavior Comparison

Trait	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Prey Drive
Watchdog Ability
Stranger Friendly
Drool Level
Wanderlust

Vocalization

Trait	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Barking Level	High	Medium
Howling Tendency
Whining Tendency	Low	Medium
Separation Vocalization

Australian Terrier bark triggers

Delivery trucksPassersbyHallway footstepsUnusual noisesLeaves blowing

Golden Retriever bark triggers

DoorbellStrangers approachingExcitement/play

Safety & Reliability

Trait	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Escape Artist
Dog Park Suitable
Off-Leash Reliable
Small Animal Safe
Leash Reactivity
Resource Guarding Risk	Low	Moderate

Australian Terrier Social Traits

Velcro Dog

One Person Dog

Handling ToleranceMedium

Stranger Wariness

Medium

With Other Dogs

Often bossy and may spark fights with much larger dogs, refusing to back down. Same-sex aggression is a known trait.

Golden Retriever Social Traits

Velcro Dog

One Person Dog

Handling ToleranceHigh

Stranger Wariness

None

With Other Dogs

Generally loves all dogs, some same-sex aggression in intact males at 18-24 months

Training

Australian Terrier

MethodPositive reinforcement only

Repetitions to Learn15-25

Challenges

The 'What's in it for me?' factor - they are intelligent but independentRepetitive drilling bores themOff-leash recall is unreliable - if a squirrel runs, the Aussie follows

Tips

Harsh methods trigger their 'terrier grit,' causing them to shut down or fight back
Use high-value rewards (food/toys)
Keep training sessions short and varied
Practice 'Nothing in Life is Free' to maintain household boundaries

Golden Retriever

MethodPositive reinforcement

Repetitions to Learn<5 for new commands

Challenges

Impulse control with new people (jumping, over-excitement)Maintaining focus in high-distraction environments

Tips

Use food motivation to your advantage
Teach bite inhibition early - they are mouthy
Channel retrieval instinct into carrying tasks

Australian Terrier Considerations

dealbreakerThe Alarm System That Won't Quit

Bred to alert settlers to snakes and intruders, they score 5/5 on watchdog ability. In modern settings, this means barking at delivery trucks, hallway footsteps, and leaves blowing across the patio. Often a dealbreaker for renters with noise restrictions.

dealbreakerSame-Sex Aggression

Documented risk of aggression toward dogs of the same sex, particularly between two females. This often emerges at sexual maturity (18-24 months) and can escalate from posturing to serious fighting. They generally do best as the only dog or with a companion of the opposite sex.

dealbreakerPredatory Fixation

Their prey drive is not a game; it is a job. They were engineered to kill rats and snakes. They cannot be trusted with hamsters, rabbits, or guinea pigs, and they may harass cats that run. This is a Full Predatory Sequence breed—they do not just chase; they grab and shake.

Golden Retriever Considerations

challengeResource Guarding

Golden Retrievers have a genetic predisposition for resource guarding behaviors. Early training and management is essential.

dealbreakerVelcro Dog / Separation Anxiety

This breed bonds intensely and may struggle when left alone. They can develop destructive behaviors if isolated for long periods.

challengeMouthiness and Nipping

Puppies and adolescents are especially mouthy due to their retriever heritage. Requires consistent bite inhibition training.

challengeMud Magnet

Their love of water and outdoors means they will track mud, dirt, and debris into your home constantly. Not ideal for pristine households.

Multi-Species Compatibility

Species	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
With Cats	Caution - safe only if raised together and the cat does not run	Generally safe - among best breeds for coexisting with cats
Small Mammals	Unsafe - high risk for hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs, rodents	Safe with proper introduction
Birds / Reptiles	Unsafe - high risk	Caution - bird dog instincts may trigger chase/grab

Advanced Behavior

Trait	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Predatory Sequence Risk	Full	Arrested
Biddability	Medium	High
Noise Sensitivity	Low	Low
Territorial Barking
Same-Sex Aggression Onset	18 months	18 months

Australian Terrier: Full Predatory Sequence: Orient → Eye → Stalk → Chase → Grab-Bite → Kill-Bite. Bred to kill snakes and rats. You cannot 'train out' the desire to shake a rat; you can only manage it. Not 'will to please' dogs - they are 'what's in it for me?' dogs.

Golden Retriever: Predatory sequence arrested at grab/hold - soft-mouthed, won't kill. Works *with* you (cooperative), not for themselves like independent breeds.

First Year & Life Stages

First Year Challenges

Challenge	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Puppy Difficulty
Destructive Phase	6-18	6-18
House Training	Medium	Easy
Crate Training	Medium	High
Adolescent Regression

Australian Terrier: While small and portable, they are intense. House training is moderately difficult (terriers can be stubborn), and their sharp puppy teeth are used freely during play. Critical socialization window is 8-16 weeks - must socialize to handling and strangers to prevent natural wariness from turning into defensiveness.

Golden Retriever: Golden puppies are 'land sharks' - intense teething phase 4-6 months. Adolescence brings regression in training and peak energy.

Life Stages Timeline

Stage	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Puppy Phase	12 months	18 months
Adolescence	6-18	6-18
Adult Years	2-9	2-8
Senior Onset	~10 years	~8 years
Peak Energy Age	1-3 years	1-3 years

Size & Physical Characteristics

Physical Stats

Measurement	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Height	25-28 cm	55-61 cm
Weight	6.8-9.1 kg	N/A
Size Category	Small	Large
Lifespan	11-15 years	10-12 years
Litter Size	4-6	4-12

Australian Terrier Coat

Typedouble

LengthMedium

Texturewiry

Colors

Blue and TanRedSandy

Golden Retriever Coat

Typedouble

LengthMedium

Texturewavy

Colors

Light GoldenGoldenDark GoldenCream (English)Red (Field lines)

Lineage & Origin

Detail	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Original Purpose	Kill rats and snakes in gold mines and sheep stations, tend sheep, and alert owners to intruders	Soft-mouthed retrieval of waterfowl and upland game birds
Origin	Australia, 19th century	Scottish Highlands, late 19th century

Breeding Details

Detail	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
C-Section Rate	Low	17.7%
Whelping Difficulty	Easy	Medium
Puppy Mortality Rate	Low	Low

Physical Risks

Risk	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Bloat / GDV Risk	Low	High
Slippery Floor Risk	Low	Medium
Min Fence Height	1.2m	1.2m
Dig / Escape Risk	High	Low

Health & Common Conditions

Australian Terrier Health Issues

Diabetes Mellitus32x higher than mixed breeds

Luxating PatellaCommon in small breeds

Legg-Calve-Perthes DiseaseOnset 5-8 months

Allergic DermatitisModerate

Golden Retriever Health Issues

Cancer (Hemangiosarcoma & Lymphoma)60%

Hip Dysplasia19.8%

Elbow Dysplasia11-25%

Pigmentary Uveitis5.5-23.9%

Ichthyosis

Australian Terrier Suggested Tests

Annual blood glucose and urinalysis (starting at age 5)
OFA Patella Evaluation
CERF Eye Examination
Family history of Diabetes inquiry

Golden Retriever Suggested Tests

Hip Evaluation (OFA or PennHIP)
Elbow Evaluation
Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Cardiac Exam
PRA-1, PRA-2, prcd-PRA (eye)
Ichthyosis DNA test
NCL (Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis)

Health Risk Overview

Risk Factor	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Cancer Risk	Low	High
Cardiac Risk	Low	Medium
Neurological Risk	Low	Low
CCL/ACL Tear Risk	Low	Medium
Vet Burden Tier	Medium	High

Sensitivities & Allergies

Sensitivity	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Skin Allergies
Environmental Allergies
Stomach Sensitivity	Low	Medium
Food Allergies	General environmental allergens	Chicken, Beef, Wheat

Health Maintenance

Care Item	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Nail Growth Rate	Fast	Normal
Eye Care Needs	Low	Medium
Anal Gland Issues	Rare	Occasional

Senior Care & Aging

Australian Terrier Senior Care

Common Senior Issues

Diabetes Mellitus (watch for excessive thirst/urination)
Cataracts
Joint stiffness

Mobility Aid LikelihoodLow

QoL Decline Age~12 years

End of Life ComplexityMedium

Mobility usually remains good until very late life. Primary concern in seniors is monitoring for diabetes symptoms (excessive thirst, frequent urination, weight loss despite normal eating).

Golden Retriever Senior Care

Common Senior Issues

Arthritis/joint stiffness
Cancer (hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma)
Cognitive decline
Vision/hearing loss

Mobility Aid LikelihoodHigh

QoL Decline Age~10 years

End of Life ComplexityHigh

Significant slowdown at 8+. High cancer risk onset. May need ramps for arthritis.

Grooming & Care

Australian Terrier

medium maintenance

Coat Typedouble

Coat Lengthmedium

Coat Texturewiry

Shedding LevelLow

Seasonal SheddingLow

Ear Cleaningas needed

Dental RiskHigh

Obesity Prone

Winter Gear Needed

Summer Restrictions

Paw Protection

Odor LevelLow

Tactile FeelWiry - harsh coat produces less oil and odor than hounds or retrievers, not soft/silky except the topknot

Colors

Blue and TanRedSandy

Golden Retriever

medium maintenance

Coat Typedouble

Coat Lengthmedium

Coat Texturewavy

Shedding LevelHigh

Seasonal SheddingExtreme

Ear Cleaningweekly

Dental RiskMedium

Obesity Prone

Winter Gear Needed

Summer Restrictions

Paw Protection

Odor LevelModerate to Strong (especially when damp)

Tactile FeelSilky/Soft - pleasant to touch

Colors

Light GoldenGoldenDark GoldenCream (English)Red (Field lines)

Lifestyle Compatibility

Australian Terrier Daily Life

Exercise Needs30-60 min/day

Alone TimeUp to 5h

Mental StimulationHigh

ApartmentChallenging - their size is perfect, but managing barking is essential for apartment living

Work from HomeSuitable - they are 'shadow' dogs who like to be in the same room, but may demand attention

Weekend WarriorSuitable - adaptable, can handle a lazy Tuesday but ready for a 5-mile hike on Saturday

HousingYard

Barking LevelHigh

First-Time Owner

Exercise Types

Brisk walks with sniffing patrolSecure yard explorationEarthdog/Barn Hunt trialsFlirt pole games

NighttimeGenerally sleeps through, but will wake instantly and bark if they hear a noise outside (Guard Patrol mode)

Food MotivationMedium

Golden Retriever Daily Life

Exercise Needs60-90 min/day

Alone TimeUp to 4h

Mental StimulationHigh

ApartmentModerate - possible with dedication to 3-4 daily outings

Work from HomeSuitable - will sleep under your desk but may demand attention

Weekend WarriorSuitable - can handle moderate weekdays with active weekends

HousingYard

Barking LevelMedium

First-Time Owner

Exercise Types

Fetch/retrieving gamesSwimmingHikingNosework/scent games

NighttimeSleeps soundly, may sleep on bed or nearby

Food MotivationHigh

Housing & Legal Restrictions

Restriction	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
BSL Restricted
Common Rental Ban
Insurance Blacklist
Weight Category	Under 25lbs	Over 50lbs

Climate Tolerance

Climate	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Heat Tolerance
Cold Tolerance
Water Affinity	Low	High

Travel Compatibility

Activity	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Car Travel	Good	Excellent
Camping
Beach Friendly
Hiking Rating
Cabin Flight Eligible
Hotel Friendly Size

Niche Suitability

Role	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Service Dog	Low	High
Therapy Dog	Medium	High
Deep Pressure Therapy
Canicross / Bikejoring
Apartment Adaptable
Tactile / Sensory Friendly
Livestock Guardian
Medical Alert	Low	High

Costs & Expenses

Upfront Costs

Cost	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Purchase Price	$1,200-2,500	$1,500-3,500
Initial Cost Range	$1,200–$2,500	$1,500–$3,500
Cost Tier

Ongoing Costs

Cost	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Monthly Range	$120–$200	$150–$250
Yearly Range	$1,440–$2,400	$1,800–$3,000
Food / Month	$30-50	$65-100
Insurance / Month	$40-70	$40-65
Grooming / Session	$50-80	$70-100
Vet Routine / Year	$300-600	$500-1,500
Monthly Cost Tier

Australian Terrier Lifetime Cost

$15,000-30,000

Golden Retriever Lifetime Cost

$20,000-65,000

Quirks & Fun Facts

Daily Quirks

Quirk	Australian Terrier	Golden Retriever
Snoring
Flatulence	Rare	Occasional
Slobber Level	None	Light
Smell When Wet	Mild	Strong
Zoomies Frequency	Weekly	Daily
Counter Surfing
Digging Tendency	High	Low

Australian Terrier Quirks

The Ruff

Distinctive ruff of hair around the neck (like a lion's mane) which was historically protective against snake bites

The Topknot

The soft, silky hair on their head contrasts with the wire body coat and needs gentle combing

Digging for Fun

They don't just dig to escape; they dig for fun. Provide a designated sandpit and bury toys in it to save your flowerbeds.

Bossiness

They will attempt to run the household. 'Nothing in life is free' training is recommended to maintain boundaries.

Golden Retriever Quirks

Carrying Objects

Will greet you with a shoe, sock, or toy in their mouth - this is genetic self-soothing behavior

The Golden Lean

Will lean their entire body weight against your legs as affection

Mouth Everything

Interacts with world through mouth - common to carry household objects around

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Australian Terriers are affectionate and playful with respectful children, but they won't tolerate rough handling like a Golden Retriever might. They do best in homes with older children who understand how to interact respectfully with dogs.

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Compare with Other Breeds

Compare Australian Terrier with:

Compare Golden Retriever with:

Akita

Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog

Alaskan Malamute

American Eskimo Dog

American Foxhound

American Staffordshire Terrier

Based on comprehensive breed research data.

View Australian Terrier profile·View Golden Retriever profile