Australian Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier

Terrier · Small vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Australian Terrier is the larger breed at 15–20 lbs (males) vs 7 lbs for the Yorkshire Terrier.
  • The Yorkshire Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian TerrierYorkshire Terrier
Group
TerrierToy
Size
SmallToy
Origin
AustraliaEngland
Height (male)
10–11"7–8"
Height (female)
10–11"7–8"
Weight (male)
15–20 lbs7 lbs
Weight (female)
15–20 lbs7 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–15 years11–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
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)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
wirehairedlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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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 Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is a feisty, brave, tomboyish toy terrier with a glamorous floor-length silk coat. Originally from England, this toy toy breed typically weighs 7 lbs and lives 11–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, sprightly, tomboyish.

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Australian Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Diabetes
  • Allergies

Yorkshire Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Liver shunt
  • Dental disease