Australian Terrier vs Greyhound

Terrier · Small vs Hound · Large

Quick take
  • Greyhound is the larger breed at 65–70 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.
  • The Australian Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian TerrierGreyhound
Group
TerrierHound
Size
SmallLarge
Origin
AustraliaEgypt
Height (male)
10–11"28–30"
Height (female)
10–11"27–28"
Weight (male)
15–20 lbs65–70 lbs
Weight (female)
15–20 lbs60–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–15 years10–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)High (4/5)
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)Very Low (1/5)
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)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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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 Greyhound

The Greyhound is a gentle, independent, noble sighthound — the fastest dog (45 mph) and biggest couch potato off-track. Originally from Egypt, this large hound breed typically weighs 65–70 lbs and lives 10–13 years. Breeders describe them as gentle, independent, noble.

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Australian Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Diabetes
  • Allergies

Greyhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Bone cancer
  • Anesthesia sensitivity