Australian Terrier vs Chihuahua
Terrier · Small vs Toy · Toy
Australian TerrierSmall
A spirited, alert, courageous Australian outback ratter — the first breed developed Down Under.
Weight: 15–20 lbsLifespan: 11–15 years
ChihuahuaToy
A graceful, charming, sassy tiny dog of Mexican origin — the world's smallest breed, big in personality.
Weight: 6 lbsLifespan: 14–16 years
Quick take
- • Australian Terrier is the larger breed at 15–20 lbs (males) vs 6 lbs for the Chihuahua.
- • The Chihuahua typically lives longer (14–16 years).
- • The Australian Terrier is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Australian Terrier | Chihuahua |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Toy |
Size | Small | Toy |
Origin | Australia | Mexico |
Height (male) | 10–11" | 5–8" |
Height (female) | 10–11" | 5–8" |
Weight (male) | 15–20 lbs | 6 lbs |
Weight (female) | 15–20 lbs | 6 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 11–15 years | 14–16 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
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) | Low (2/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
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 Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a graceful, charming, sassy tiny dog of Mexican origin — the world's smallest breed, big in personality. Originally from Mexico, this toy toy breed typically weighs 6 lbs and lives 14–16 years. Breeders describe them as graceful, charming, sassy.
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Australian Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Diabetes
- • Allergies
Chihuahua health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Hydrocephalus
- • Heart disease
- • Dental issues