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 Scottish Sheepdog Longhairs (Rough Collies) good family dogs?

Yes, Rough Collies are excellent family dogs. They are gentle, patient with children, and have a natural protective instinct without aggression. They're one of the most livable family dogs, though young Collies may try to herd running children by nipping heels.

How much exercise does a Rough Collie need?

Rough Collies need 45-60 minutes of daily exercise - less than many people expect. They have a distinct 'off switch' and are often couch potatoes indoors, unlike their high-energy Border Collie cousins.

Do Rough Collies bark a lot?

Yes, this is the primary behavioral complaint. They were bred to communicate over long distances and alert to everything - delivery trucks, neighbors, squirrels, even wind. The bark is sharp and piercing. Training 'quiet' is essential.

Are Rough Collies easy to train?

Yes, they are highly biddable and want to please. However, they are 'soft' dogs - harsh corrections will cause them to shut down. Positive reinforcement is non-negotiable. Keep sessions short and fun to prevent boredom.

What health problems do Rough Collies have?

The most critical is MDR1 drug sensitivity (~70% affected) - certain common drugs like Ivermectin can be life-threatening. Collie Eye Anomaly affects 70-97% of the population. Hip dysplasia is surprisingly low at ~2.8%. Bloat risk is moderate-high.

How long do Rough Collies live?

Rough Collies typically live 12-14 years, which is long for a dog of their size. They are generally healthy when bred responsibly with proper genetic testing.

How much grooming do Rough Collies need?

A LOT. Weekly deep line-brushing (45-60 minutes) is mandatory to prevent painful mats. Surface brushing is not enough. They blow coat 1-2 times a year, filling trash bags with fur. Professional grooming costs $80-150 every 6-8 weeks if not maintained at home.

What is the MDR1 gene in Collies?

MDR1 is a mutation causing sensitivity to certain drugs. ~70% of Collies have it. Affected dogs cannot safely process common medications like Ivermectin (heartworm prevention), Loperamide (Imodium), and some anesthetics. DNA testing is CRITICAL before any veterinary treatment.

Are Rough Collies good with cats?

Generally yes - they are one of the best large breeds for multi-species homes. They have low prey drive and are gentle. They may try to herd cats (nose poking, blocking paths) but rarely have the 'grab-bite' instinct of terriers.

Are Rough Collies good for first-time owners?

Yes, they are fantastic first dogs IF the owner commits to the grooming and manages the barking. Their gentle, forgiving nature makes them excellent for novices. They are polite puppies and not as mouthy or hyper as Labs.

Australian Terrier vs Scottish Sheepdog Longhair

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

HerdingPastoral

Scottish Sheepdog Longhair

Also known as: Rough Collie, Lassie Dog, Scottish Collie, Long-Haired Collie

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The Scottish Sheepdog Longhair, also known as the Rough Collie, is a highly intelligent and elegant herding breed renowned for its striking long coat, loyalty, and gentle temperament. Made famous by 'Lassie,' this breed was originally developed in the Scottish Highlands as a shepherd's dog and is now cherished as a devoted family companion.

Size

Large

Energy

Medium

Lifespan

12-14 yrs

Height

56-66 cm

Quick Comparison

Trait	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
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	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Size	Small	Large
Energy Level	Medium	Medium
Grooming	Medium	High
Trainability	Moderate	Easy
Barking Level	High	High
Shedding Level	Low	High
Chew strength	Moderate	Moderate
Housing	Yard	Yard

Owner Fit & Decision Guide

Owner Match

Trait	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
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.	Patient person or family who appreciates regular grooming as bonding time. Tolerant of barking or willing to train 'quiet' command. Enjoys moderate activity but not extreme athletics. Uses positive reinforcement training methods.

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)

Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Dealbreakers

Cannot tolerate barking
Want a 'wash and go' dog - grooming is a hobby here
Want a dog to jog 10 miles with you in July
Use harsh training methods - they are 'soft' dogs that shut down

Surrender Risk

Factor	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Risk Level	Low	Low
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	Barking - underestimated volume and frequency, Shedding/Grooming - extreme hair and time commitment, Lassie Effect - unrealistic expectations from TV show

Temperament & Personality

Behavior Comparison

Trait	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Prey Drive
Watchdog Ability
Stranger Friendly
Drool Level
Wanderlust

Vocalization

Trait	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Barking Level	High	High
Howling Tendency
Whining Tendency	Low	Medium
Separation Vocalization

Australian Terrier bark triggers

Delivery trucksPassersbyHallway footstepsUnusual noisesLeaves blowing

Scottish Sheepdog Longhair bark triggers

ExcitementBoredomAlerting (everything)Talking back during training

Safety & Reliability

Trait	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Escape Artist
Dog Park Suitable
Off-Leash Reliable
Small Animal Safe
Leash Reactivity
Resource Guarding Risk	Low	Low

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.

Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Social Traits

Velcro Dog

One Person Dog

Handling ToleranceHigh

Stranger Wariness

Moderate

With Other Dogs

Generally dog neutral to friendly. Same-sex aggression is rare.

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

Scottish Sheepdog Longhair

MethodPositive reinforcement only

Repetitions to Learn<15

Challenges

Can get bored with endless repetitionSensitive to handler emotion - if you're frustrated, they disengage

Tips

Keep sessions short (5-10 mins) and fun
Harsh corrections will cause them to shut down or become fearful
They are intelligent but not 'neurotic' about problem-solving like Border Collies
Train 'quiet' command early to manage barking

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.

Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Considerations

dealbreakerThe Recreational Barker

Bred to communicate with shepherds over long distances, Collies alert to everything: delivery trucks, neighbors, squirrels, and wind. Unlike a guard dog's warning bark, a Collie often barks to chat or express boredom. The bark is sharp and piercing.

challengeExtreme Noise Sensitivity

Exceptionally sensitive to their environment. Thunderstorms, fireworks, and even loud arguments can cause significant distress. Poor candidates for chaotic households with constant screaming or slamming doors.

dealbreakerThe Grooming Commitment

The spectacular coat requires weekly 45-60 minute line-brushing sessions. Surface brushing leaves the undercoat to mat, leading to 'felted' dogs that must be shaved - a disaster for double coats. This is a hobby, not a chore.

challengeThe Herding Nip

Young Collies may attempt to herd running children by nipping at heels. This is an arrested predatory sequence behavior, not aggression, but it can be frightening for small children and requires management.

Multi-Species Compatibility

Species	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
With Cats	Caution - safe only if raised together and the cat does not run	High safety - one of the best large breeds for multi-species homes. Low prey drive.
Small Mammals	Unsafe - high risk for hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs, rodents	Generally safe - may try to herd but rarely has grab-bite instinct
Birds / Reptiles	Unsafe - high risk	Good with poultry if trained, though may harass if untrained

Advanced Behavior

Trait	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Predatory Sequence Risk	Full	Arrested
Biddability	Medium	High
Noise Sensitivity	Low	High
Territorial Barking
Same-Sex Aggression Onset	18 months	N/A

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.

Scottish Sheepdog Longhair: Predatory sequence is Orient → Eye → Stalk → (Stop). They may stare at and follow cats but grab-bite is largely inhibited. They WANT to work with you - unlike Huskies who ask 'what's in it for me?' a Collie asks 'what do you want me to do?'

First Year & Life Stages

First Year Challenges

Challenge	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Puppy Difficulty
Destructive Phase	6-18	6-14
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.

Scottish Sheepdog Longhair: Collie puppies are generally polite and observant, easier than Labradors or high-drive breeds. Main challenges are noise sensitivity and socialization to prevent shyness. May need ear taping for classic semi-prick look (cosmetic only).

Life Stages Timeline

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

Size & Physical Characteristics

Physical Stats

Measurement	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Height	25-28 cm	56-66 cm
Weight	Not enough data yet	Not enough data yet
Size Category	Small	Large
Lifespan	11–15 years	12–14 years
Litter Size	4-6	6-10

Australian Terrier Coat

Type double

Length Medium

Texture wiry

Colors

Blue and TanRedSandy

Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Coat

Type double

Length Long

Texture harsh outer, soft undercoat

Colors

Sable and WhiteTricolor (Black, Tan, White)Blue MerleWhite (with colored markings)

Lineage & Origin

Detail	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Original Purpose	Kill rats and snakes in gold mines and sheep stations, tend sheep, and alert owners to intruders	Gathering and droving sheep in the Scottish Highlands, farm guardianship
Origin	Australia, 19th century	Scottish Highlands and Northern England, 19th century

Breeding Details

Detail	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
C-Section Rate	Low	Low
Whelping Difficulty	Easy	Easy
Puppy Mortality Rate	Low	Low

Physical Risks

Risk	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Bloat / GDV Risk	Low	High
Slippery Floor Risk	Low	Low
Min Fence Height	1.2m	1.3m
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

Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Health Issues

MDR1 Drug Sensitivity~70%

Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)70-97%

Hip Dysplasia~2.8%

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)Moderate-High risk

Dermatomyositis (DMS)Breed predisposition

Australian Terrier Suggested Tests

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

Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Suggested Tests

MDR1 (DNA) - CRITICAL
CEA (DNA + Clinical Exam at 6-8 weeks)
PRA-rcd2 (DNA)
Hip Evaluation

Health Risk Overview

Risk Factor	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Cancer Risk	Low	Low
Cardiac Risk	Low	Low
Neurological Risk	Low	Low
CCL/ACL Tear Risk	Low	Low
Vet Burden Tier	Medium	Medium

Sensitivities & Allergies

Sensitivity	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Skin Allergies
Environmental Allergies
Stomach Sensitivity	Low	Low
Food Allergies	General environmental allergens	Generally hardy

Health Maintenance

Care Item	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Nail Growth Rate	Fast	Normal
Eye Care Needs	Low	High
Anal Gland Issues	Rare	Rare

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).

Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Senior Care

Common Senior Issues

Arthritis in hips/knees
Cognitive decline
Vision problems (CEA progression)

Mobility Aid LikelihoodHigh

QoL Decline Age~11 years

End of Life ComplexityMedium

High risk of arthritis - introduce ramps for cars early to protect joints. Keep mentally engaged with nosework to slow cognitive decline.

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

Scottish Sheepdog Longhair

high maintenance

Coat Typedouble

Coat Lengthlong

Coat Textureharsh outer, soft undercoat

Shedding LevelHigh

Seasonal SheddingExtreme

Ear Cleaningweekly

Dental RiskMedium

Obesity Prone

Winter Gear Needed

Summer Restrictions

Paw Protection

Odor LevelLow

Tactile FeelSoft and abundant - great for sensory-seeking owners who find petting soothing

Colors

Sable and WhiteTricolor (Black, Tan, White)Blue MerleWhite (with colored markings)

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

Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Daily Life

Exercise Needs45-60 min/day

Alone TimeUp to 5h

Mental StimulationMedium

ApartmentPoor - not due to size but barking. They alert to hallway noises and will likely annoy neighbors.

Work from HomeExcellent - will sleep under your desk. However, doorbell barking may disrupt video calls.

Weekend WarriorSuitable - can handle a lazy Tuesday and a 5-mile hike on Saturday. Very adaptable.

HousingYard

Barking LevelHigh

First-Time Owner

Exercise Types

Sniff walks (mental + physical)Fetch sessionsTrick trainingHiking

NighttimeSleeps through the night early on, not a restless pacer

Food MotivationMedium

Housing & Legal Restrictions

Restriction	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
BSL Restricted
Common Rental Ban
Insurance Blacklist
Weight Category	Under 25lbs	Over 50lbs

Climate Tolerance

Climate	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Heat Tolerance
Cold Tolerance
Water Affinity	Low	Low

Travel Compatibility

Activity	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Car Travel	Good	Good
Camping
Beach Friendly
Hiking Rating
Cabin Flight Eligible
Hotel Friendly Size

Niche Suitability

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

Costs & Expenses

Upfront Costs

Cost	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Purchase Price	$1,200-2,500	$1,500-3,000
Initial Cost Range	$1,200–$2,500	$1,500–$3,000
Cost Tier

Ongoing Costs

Cost	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Monthly Range	$120–$200	$150–$250
Yearly Range	$1,440–$2,400	$2,000–$3,000
Food / Month	$30-50	$60-90
Insurance / Month	$40-70	$40-70
Grooming / Session	$50-80	$80-150
Vet Routine / Year	$300-600	$600-1,000
Monthly Cost Tier

Australian Terrier Lifetime Cost

$15,000-30,000

Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Lifetime Cost

$25,000-40,000

Quirks & Fun Facts

Daily Quirks

Quirk	Australian Terrier	Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Snoring
Flatulence	Rare	Rare
Slobber Level	None	None
Smell When Wet	Mild	Moderate
Zoomies Frequency	Weekly	Weekly
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.

Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Quirks

The Collie Nose

They use their long nose to poke, prod, and nudge you - their way of holding hands

The Greeter's Grin

Some Collies 'smile' (bare their teeth) when submissive or happy. Looks terrifying to strangers but is a sign of joy.

Air Snapping

May snap the air when excited or playing

The Off Switch

Unlike Border Collies, Rough Collies have a distinct 'off switch' and are often described as couch potatoes indoors

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 Scottish Sheepdog Longhair 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 Scottish Sheepdog Longhair profile