Tenterfield Terrier — breed guide
An Australian farm terrier, named for the New South Wales town — squarer and slightly sturdier than the Mini Foxie it is often confused with.
At a glance
- Group
- terrier
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 3–5 kg (7–11 lb)
- Life span
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Short, smooth, close coat
Living with a Tenterfield Terrier
- High energy — needs real exercise every day, not a stroll.
- Almost no grooming.
- Light shedding.
- Quick to learn.
- Barks readily.
- Good with children.
- Usually fine with a familiar dog; strange dogs need managing.
- Can live with a cat, with a slow introduction and an escape route for the cat.
- Suits apartment living, given its daily walks.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Handles warm weather well.
- Average cold tolerance.
Temperament
Lively · Confident · Friendly · Alert
Health to watch
- Patellar luxation
- Lens luxation
- Deafness
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a Tenterfield Terrier good with kids?
Generally yes. Tenterfield Terriers are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Tenterfield Terrier 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 Tenterfield Terrier need?
An hour or more of proper exercise every day.
Can a Tenterfield Terrier handle hot weather?
It copes well with warm days.
Leash Life keeps a Tenterfield Terrier's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.