Tenterfield Terrier

Also called Miniature Fox Terrier (former name), Mini Foxie

Recognised breedShort profile

From Australia, bred widely in and around northern New South Wales.1 2

At a glance the quick version

Weight3 to 4.5 kg2

Height25 to 31 cm2

Lifespan12 to 16 years2

Sizesmall

very intelligent

alert and lively

fun-loving and affectionate

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, smooth single coat

A small, neat terrier with a fine, short, smooth single coat.2

Colourstricolourblack and whitetan and whiteliver and white2

Personality what they are like

A bright, alert little dog with lots of energy. With consistent training and enough activity it becomes a cheerful, affectionate family companion.2

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High for its size: around 60 minutes of active exercise a day.2

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Minimal; the short coat sheds moderately and needs only simple regular brushing.2

The story where it all began

Small terriers came to Australia with 19th-century English settlers to keep rats down, and breeders crossed the smallest Fox Terriers with other small breeds to create a compact ratter. Long known as the Miniature Fox Terrier, the breed was renamed in the 1990s to honour the Tenterfield Saddler, George Woolnough.1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
The name was suggested in the 1990s by television gardening presenter Don Burke.1
2
George Woolnough, the saddler who owned these terriers, was the grandfather of entertainer Peter Allen, who wrote the song 'Tenterfield Saddler' about him.1
3
By the 1920s these little terriers had moved from farms into city homes all over Australia.1
4
Its ancestry includes Fox Terriers, Manchester Terriers, Toy Terriers, a bit of Whippet and even some Chihuahua.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name Tenterfield Terrier was suggested in the 1990s by television gardening personality Don Burke, and was adopted during the renaming of one of the then-Miniature Fox Terrier clubs.1

Name ideas for your new friend

BindiWombatSkippyDingoKookaburraTazBoomerMidgeRooCoralSunnyChilli

A day in the life told by a Tenterfield Terrier

I wake up and stretch my short legs, ready for the day. The sun is warm, and I race to the door, tail wagging. My human laughs and tosses a ball across the yard, I chase it, ears flapping. We walk along the path, sniffing every bush. A bird chirps; I tilt my head, curious. Back home, I curl on the sofa, watching my human cook. After a quick brush, I play tug-of-war with a squeaky toy. Evening comes, and I snuggle close, content. Another happy day.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

ANKC (Dogs Australia): Has an ANKC breed standard.1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Tenterfield Terrier. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Hand strippingHand stripping keeps the harsh texture; clipping also worksevery 12 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Tenterfield Terrier, and at what times?

Feed adult Tenterfield Terriers at least two meals a day, ideally at the same times each morning and evening. Puppies need three to four smaller meals daily. Check the food label for portion sizes and ask your vet for a schedule that suits your dog.3

What should a Tenterfield Terrier eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and size. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, macadamia nuts, and alcohol. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.4

How often should I bathe a Tenterfield Terrier?

Bathe your Tenterfield Terrier about every eight weeks, or as needed if it gets dirty. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days. Overbathing can dry the skin, so follow your vet's advice.5 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Tenterfield Terrier need brushing?

Brush your Tenterfield Terrier weekly to remove loose hair and keep its short coat healthy. Furry Diary's plan recommends brushing every seven days. This also helps with moderate shedding.5 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Tenterfield Terrier's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every three weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part). If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.5 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Tenterfield Terrier need?

This energetic little dog needs about 60 minutes of active exercise daily. Furry Diary's plan includes daily walks and play. Regular activity keeps it happy and well-behaved.2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Tenterfield Terrier's teeth and ears?

Brush your dog's teeth daily with a pet-safe toothpaste, and check ears every two weeks for dirt or redness. Never push anything into the ear canal. Your vet can show you the best technique.5 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Tenterfield Terrier live?

Tenterfield Terriers typically live between 12 and 16 years. With good care, regular vet checkups, and a healthy lifestyle, many enjoy a long, happy life.2

Is a Tenterfield Terrier good with children and other pets?

Yes, with consistent training and enough activity, this breed becomes a cheerful, affectionate family companion. It can get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized from a young age.2

Can a Tenterfield Terrier be left alone?

This varies by individual dog and training. Tenterfield Terriers are bright and energetic, so they may need gradual alone-time training. For specific advice, ask your vet or a good breeder.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.