Information on the
Tenterfield Terrier
BACKGROUND
The forefathers of the Tenterfield Terrier originated in
England. 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 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 didn’t have at least one
of these terriers.
There is a photo taken in the late 1800s of a police party searching
AVERAGE LIFESPAN
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.
The height at shoulder is ideally 28cms (11 ins) with a 2.5
cm (1 in) 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, active, agile working
terrier of great versatility. He has proven himself, without question, as a
hunter of vermin and of being an extremely loving pet.
The Tenterfield Terrier is at home either hunting vermin (large and small) 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 Tenterfield's, 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.
The Tenterfield Terrier is a simple wash and wear dog. They
need very little upkeep other than keeping their toe nails trimmed, the teeth
clean (as with any breed) and occasional brushing to remove loose hair
(especially when dropping summer and winter coats).
The Tenterfield Terrier can have a mind of its own. Early training, including
Puppy School, is a great advantage.
IDEAL OWNER/S
The Tenterfield Terrier is extremely adaptable to most home
situations. He is quite the farm/working terrier or the loving household pet.
He is ideally suited to both children and the elderly. They will eagerly play
and romp with the children and/or curl up on the knee of someone less active.
They love getting out and about for a walk or run and equally enjoy a game of
ball for those who are unable to take their loving pet for a walk.
The Tenterfield Terrier will dig if allowed to. Always provide plenty of toys and items he can chew to keep him entertained, especially if he is to be left alone for long periods of time.
IN CONCLUSION
Now you know a little about the Tenterfield Terrier and have decided this is the dog for you or you want more information, about the breed or availability of puppies feel free to contact me.