Australorp — breed guide

At a glance

Group

layer

Size

Medium

Weight

3–4 kg (7–9 lb)

Life span

6–10 years

Coat

Glossy black with a green sheen

Living with a Australorp

• Low energy — happy with gentle daily exercise.
• Almost no grooming.
• Light shedding.
• Can be stubborn.
• Quiet.
• Good with children.
• Gets along with other dogs.
• Can live with a cat, with a slow introduction and an escape route for the cat.
• Not well suited to a flat — space, exercise need or voice works against it.
• A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
• Average heat tolerance.
• Handles cold well.

Temperament

Calm · Docile · Steady

Health to watch

• Bumblefoot
• Mites
• Egg binding

Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.

Questions people ask

Is a Australorp good with kids?

Generally yes. Australorps are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.

Is a Australorp good with cats?

It can work, with management. Introduce them gradually, feed them apart, and make sure the cat has vertical space the dog cannot reach. Plan to manage it rather than assume it.

How much exercise does a Australorp need?

A gentle daily walk.

Can a Australorp handle hot weather?

About average — use normal hot-day sense.