Australian Terrier vs Boston Terrier
Terrier · Small vs Non-Sporting · Small
Australian TerrierSmall
A spirited, alert, courageous Australian outback ratter — the first breed developed Down Under.
Weight: 15–20 lbsLifespan: 11–15 years
Boston TerrierSmall
A friendly, bright, amusing 'American Gentleman' in a tuxedo coat — born in Boston, the original AKC breed.
Weight: 12–25 lbsLifespan: 11–13 years
Quick take
- • Boston Terrier is the larger breed at 12–25 lbs (males) vs 15–20 lbs for the Australian Terrier.
- • The Australian Terrier typically lives longer (11–15 years).
- • The Australian Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Australian Terrier | Boston Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Non-Sporting |
Size | Small | Small |
Origin | Australia | USA |
Height (male) | 10–11" | 15–17" |
Height (female) | 10–11" | 15–17" |
Weight (male) | 15–20 lbs | 12–25 lbs |
Weight (female) | 15–20 lbs | 12–25 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 11–15 years | 11–13 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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About the Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is a spirited, alert, courageous Australian outback ratter — the first breed developed Down Under. Originally from Australia, this small terrier breed typically weighs 15–20 lbs and lives 11–15 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, alert, courageous.
About the Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is a friendly, bright, amusing 'American Gentleman' in a tuxedo coat — born in Boston, the original AKC breed. Originally from USA, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 12–25 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, bright, amusing.
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Australian Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Diabetes
- • Allergies
Boston Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Brachycephalic syndrome
- • Eye problems
- • Patellar luxation
- • Allergies