Australian Terrier

Brushing Routine

Brush the Australian Terrier's harsh, straight outer coat and soft undercoat 2-3 times weekly with a slicker brush and stripping knife. The coat should have a rough, weather-resistant texture that is maintained through hand-stripping. Focus on the softer topknot, the ruff around the neck, and the apron on the chest. A bristle brush adds finishing polish to the flat-lying body coat.

Bathing Tips

Bathe every 6-8 weeks with a texturizing shampoo that preserves the coat's harsh feel. Over-bathing softens the wiry texture. Apply conditioner only to the softer topknot and chest apron, never on the harsh body coat. The small size makes sink bathing convenient. Towel dry the body and blow-dry the topknot and ruff.

Common Issues

• Coat softening from clipping instead of stripping
• Topknot tangles and breakage
• Skin allergies causing coat thinning
• Patellar luxation requiring gentle handling
• Ruff and apron matting

Extend Your Grooming Results

Pull loose dead hairs weekly between professional strips to maintain coat texture. The topknot needs daily fluffing with fingers to prevent it from going flat. A texturizing spray on the body coat between grooms maintains the harsh, natural feel. Keep the apron tidy with light combing.

Seasonal Care

The double coat sheds moderately in spring and fall. Hand-stripped coats shed less than clipped ones. In summer, the wiry outer coat protects from sun and heat. In winter, the undercoat thickens for warmth. The topknot may need extra care in dry winter air to prevent static and breakage.

Maintenance Schedule

Brush 2-3 times weekly. Fluff topknot daily. Hand-strip every 8-12 weeks or clipper trim every 6-8 weeks. Clean ears weekly. Trim nails every 2-3 weeks. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.