Australian Terrier health: what owners should know

Australian Terriers are generally healthy and long-lived. The breed is known to be predisposed to diabetes mellitus, patellar luxation, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease of the hip, and skin allergies. Responsible breeders check knees and hips, have eyes examined, and ask about diabetes and allergies in their lines.

Keep your dog at a healthy weight and learn its normal drinking and toilet habits. See a vet promptly if your Aussie starts drinking or urinating much more than usual, loses weight despite a normal appetite, or develops a limp or hopping gait. Persistent itching, licking of paws or ear scratching also warrants a check.