Silky Terrier Dog Breed Information

Group

Toy

Weight

4-5 kg

Height

23-26 cm

Lifespan

12-15 years

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About the Silky Terrier

Reviewed by:

Dr. Liza Cahn

Veterinarian

What is the history & origin of the Silky Terrier?

The Silky Terrier originated in Australia when Yorkshire Terriers were imported and cross-bred with native Australian Terriers. These small dogs were originally used as hunters to catch household prey and vermin. While they appear similar to Yorkies, the long coat tends to be a distinguishing feature.

There have been several standards for this breed throughout its history, including an initial breed standard developed in 1906, followed by a revision in 1909. By 1926 these standards were unified to form the current benchmark that defines the breed. The Australian National Kennel Council first recognized the breed in 1958, and in 1959 it was recognized by the American Kennel Club. The breed has also been known as Sydney Silky Terrier and Australian Silky Terrier.

What is a Silky Terrier breed?

This petite canine sports a slightly elongated body compared to its height, and its refined, wedge-shaped head complements its profile. Adding to its charm are V-shaped ears and eyes surrounded by dark rims. But the breed hallmark is undeniably its luxurious, flowing coat – a shimmering, silky mane that often extends to the ground.

The Silky Terrier’s disposition is a blend of enthusiasm and loyalty. With roots in the terrier family, they possess an energetic and alert nature. But beneath this lively spirit, they also have a gentle and affectionate side, making them endearing companions for families and individuals alike.

Who is a Silky Terrier best for?

The Silky can be a great family pet for anyone looking for a loveable breed small enough to be a lap dog for most. Their compact size paired with their warm and affectionate demeanor makes them an ideal fit for urban dwellers in apartments or townhouses.

Their energetic spirit means they are well-suited to active families, especially those with older children who can match their vivacity. They also seem to deal well with noise and traffic of the household.

Anyone looking for a close companion will love this breed, as they certainly cling onto you like glue. For those seeking a dog that offers both lively interaction and cuddly moments of affection, the Silky Terrier is a match made in canine heaven.

Silky Terrier Grooming & Shedding

One of the best features of the Silky Terrier is its beautiful coat. Long, sleek and parted down the back, it’s often grown out to hit the floor and comes in colors of tan and various shades of blue.

The coat will need brushing two to three times per week to remain tangle free. Monthly bathing may also be a good idea for this long-haired breed.

Additional grooming care will involve nail trimming and teeth brushing, as small breeds are especially prone to developing periodontal disease.

Do Silky Terriers bark a lot?

Like most terriers, this can be a vocal breed and excessive barking is a possibility. Training and enrichment can help curb this habit.

What is the average weight & height of a Silky Terrier dog?

Typically both males and females will weigh around 4 to 5 kilos and stand around 23-26 cm tall.

Are Silky Terriers easy to train?

With a classic terrier temperament, early socialisation (exposure to both people and other dogs) and training is critical. A good way to do this is puppy classes. Despite their small size, this highly intelligent breed can have a stubborn streak but should respond well to positive reinforcement.

How do Silky Terriers behave? A look at their temperament and personality

As a breed, Silkies are known to have an excellent temperament that’s laid-back, friendly, and manageable for most households. They love chasing small animals and make an excellent watchdog for anyone who needs extra protection over their home.

A devoted member of the household, the Silky is happiest when surrounded by their loved ones. Their unwavering loyalty, combined with their playful zest for life, makes the Silky Terrier a cherished member of any household.

Does the Silky Terrier have any common health issues?

Whilst they are a generally healthy breed, there are some health problems that this breed can encounter.

Epilepsy: A neurological disorder, epilepsy can cause seizures that vary in severity.
Diabetes Mellitus: This metabolic condition affects how the body handles blood sugar. Typical signs include excessive thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, and an increased appetite.
Tracheal Collapse: Particularly seen in smaller breeds, this is when the cartilage of the windpipe weakens, restricting airflow.
Legg-Perthes Disease: A hip joint disorder, this condition involves the degeneration of the head of the femur bone, leading to inflammation and pain.
Luxating Patella: This condition involves the kneecap moving out of its natural position. Signs might include occasional limping or an irregular gait, with periods where the dog might hold the affected leg off the ground.

Regular veterinary consultations and attentive observation for unusual symptoms are crucial for early detection and effective management of these conditions.

What is the lifespan of a Silky Terrier?

The Silky terrier does well in life, getting a good 12-15 years on average. Making sure they have plenty of exercises and looking after common health issues can help ensure a long healthy life.

How much does a Silky Terrier need to be fed?

You should work together with your trusted veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to decide the most appropriate food for your pup.

When choosing a diet, look for WSAVA and AAFCO seals of approval, indicating that the food is complete and balanced. Avoid boutique diets such as raw and grain-free, as these have been linked to infection and heart disease.

Most owners feed two meals per day after puppyhood, with the amount depending on your dog’s diet, size, and activity level. You can give your dog quality treats in moderation, especially during training, but avoid feeding table scraps as this could be unhealthy and also result in unwanted begging behaviour.

Fresh water should always be available.

How much can you expect to pay for a Silky Terrier in Australia?

There are significant variations in price, but in general you can expect to pay up to $2000 for a puppy of this breed. Be sure that you find a breeder who follows responsible breeding practices and utilizes appropriate testing and veterinary care to contribute to the health and temperament of their puppies.

It’s essential to recognize that the initial cost of the puppy is only a small part of the total expenses. Ongoing costs for food, veterinary care, grooming, training, and other necessities should also be factored into your budget.

You may also find a Silky Terrier through rescue groups, a breed club, or a shelter for a much lower cost.

Silky Terrier FAQs

Do Silky Terriers like to cuddle?

The Australian Silky Terrier loves to cuddle, and when it comes to attention, the more you can give to them the better. They’ll want to be by your side most of the time, so if you want a dog that sticks to you like glue, then this is a breed that’s perfect for you. As a result, though, they are more prone to having separation anxiety when their owner leaves.

Are Silky Terriers hypoallergenic dogs?

While no breed is completely hypoallergenic, Silkies are often considered to be so. They produce a lot less dander than other dogs and may be a better choice for those with allergies. Despite their long coat, they shed minimally and have a hair structure similar to humans.

How long can a Silky Terrier be left alone?

For dog breeds like the Silky Terrier, it’s important to be home most of the time. Otherwise they may turn to chewing and barking to alleviate some of the boredom or stress that they feel.

Can Silky Terriers swim?

Many terriers will enjoy a swim in a lake or the sea. These pups get excited when they see a body of water but keep the sessions short as their coat can make them quite heavy when they’re in deeper water. It is always important to introduce a dog to water gradually and monitor them closely while swimming.