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Australian Terrier vs Poodle

Discover the differences between Australian Terrier and Poodle to make the best choice for your situation.

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Australian Terrier
Australia

Australian Terrier

Terrier Group
Small

Energetic, spirited, and alert, this small dog thrives on companionship and adventure. Loyal and fearless, it makes a devoted family member and a lively playmate.

Poodle
Germany/France

Poodle

Non-Sporting Group
Medium

Elegant, intelligent, and highly trainable, this breed stands out for its lively spirit and loyal companionship. Their hypoallergenic coat and playful personality make them ideal family pets.

Quick comparison

Size:

Small

Male:

6.5–7.5 kg

Coat:

Harsh, straight

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Female:

5.5–6.5 kg

Energy:

High energy

Size:

Medium

Male:

20–32 kg

Coat:

Curly, dense

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Female:

18–27 kg

Energy:

High energy

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Australian Terrier

Friendliness
4/5

Generally sociable, enjoys human companionship

Intelligence
4/5

Quick learner, responds well to training

Energy Level
5/5

Very active, needs regular exercise

Playfulness
4/5

Likes games, enjoys interactive play

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts fairly well to new situations

Poodle

Friendliness
5/5

Warm and sociable with family and guests

Intelligence
5/5

Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands

Energy Level
4/5

Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive playtime

Adaptability
5/5

Easily adjusts to new environments and routines

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Australian Terrier

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (1–2 times weekly)
Exercise:
45–60 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Quick learner
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Patellar luxation, diabetes

Poodle

Grooming:
High grooming needs (at least weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Highly trainable
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

Australian Terrier

First-time Owner
4/5

Good starter breed

Easygoing nature and manageable size make them suitable for new dog owners

Apartment Living
4/5

Apartment friendly

Small size and moderate exercise needs suit urban and smaller living spaces

Active Lifestyle
3/5

Needs stimulation

Enjoys activity and play but not as high-energy as some breeds

Kids
4/5

Generally tolerant

Usually does well with gentle children but needs supervision with very young kids

Multiple Pets
3/5

May need guidance

Can get along with other pets but early socialization is important

Being Left Alone
2/5

Not recommended

Prone to separation anxiety and boredom when left alone for extended periods

Poodle

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.

Apartment Living
4/5

Highly suitable

Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Perfect fit

Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.

Kids
5/5

Very friendly

Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.

Multiple Pets
4/5

Gets along well

Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.

Being Left Alone
2/5

Prone to anxiety

Poodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods regularly.

Breed strengths

What each breed excels at and their best qualities

Australian Terrier

  • Alert and effective watchdog
  • Loyal to family members
  • Adaptable to urban or rural living
  • Low grooming needs due to harsh coat
  • Generally good with respectful children

Poodle

  • Highly intelligent and easy to train
  • Hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding
  • Strong bond with family members
  • Adaptable to various living environments
  • Excellent performance in canine sports

Challenges & considerations

Potential challenges and considerations for each breed

Australian Terrier

  • Prone to digging and chasing small animals
  • Can be stubborn during training sessions
  • Needs daily exercise to prevent boredom
  • May be vocal with frequent barking
  • Can be wary of unfamiliar dogs

Poodle

  • Requires regular professional grooming
  • Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
  • Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
  • Can be reserved with unfamiliar people
  • Susceptible to certain genetic health issues

Ready to choose your perfect breed?

Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

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