Lots of stamina, agile, active. Superior watchdog; territorial. Some members of this breed can be aggressive, an unacceptable trait that good breeders are trying successfully to eliminate. Cannot abide heat. Some individuals are barkers. Needs an experienced owner.

Hunting rodents, foxes.

Alert, inquisitive, fearless, assured, sophisticated, bold.

25.5cm; 8 to 10kg. This breed comes in a mix of colours, including wheaten, steel, and brindle, not just the commonly seen black.

Harsh, wiry, long, weatherproof. High maintenance required; brushing three times a week. Professional grooming is recommended at least four times a year; clipping for pets and stripping for show dogs. Light shedding.

12 to 15 years.

Bladder cancer, CMO, von Willebrand’s, allergies, hypothyroidism.

High; they need a considerable amount.

Adaptable to any living situation.

Low; needs early obedience training; difficult to train; many will challenge their owners for dominance.

Earthdog trials.