Silky Terrier

                                                     Silky Terrier

AKA:Sydney Silky, Australian Silky Terrier
Origin:Sydney, Australia
Size:Small
Ease of Training:Medium
Grooming:Low
Shedding:Low
Exercise needed:Daily walks
Energy level:Medium/High
Protection:High, makes an effective barking watchdog
Good with children:Yes, with older, gentle children and effective socialization
Health clearances:OFA, CERF
Popularity:70/155

Silky Terrier Temperament

Lively, spirited, and full of energy, the Silky Terrier is a confident and charming little dog with plenty of character. These are friendly and cheerful dogs, and are very adaptable and intelligent. Training the Silky Terrier shouldn't be too much of a problem, as they are quick to learn and responsive, making them ideal for inexperienced owners as well as the more experienced. These dogs may be small but they have plenty of courage and a curious streak. They are also very keen on digging, which is why a secure and safe area is necessary for him to play and exercise in when he is not on a leash. The Silky Terrier can sometimes be bossy, and needs an owner that will be assertive and firm yet positive. The Silky Terrier thrives on the attention and affection of his owner, and is not the right choice for those with little time for their pets.

Housebreaking the Silky Terrier may prove difficult, and owners should look out for his possessive streak when it comes to his belongings and food. You should socialize your Silky Terrier early on to promote a stable temperament and sociable personality, as some can grow to be suspicious. The Silky Terrier gets along well with children, but is best around older, gentle children as he doesn't take kindly to boisterous kids and being handled roughly. They will get along okay with other pets, but may be quarrelsome with dogs of the same sex. He does have a tendency to chase other animals, even if they are bigger than him. He will bark to announce visitors, and can make an effective watchdog.

Silky Terrier Appearance

The Silky Terrier is a small, compact, dog with small, erect ears, and a sweet yet alert expression. The coat of the Silky Terrier is luxuriously silky (hence the name), and is long and fine. The coloring of the coat is blue and tan. These dogs weigh in at around 10 pounds and reach around 9-10 inches in height.

Silky Terrier Grooming

The Silky Terrier is not a particularly high maintenance dog, despite his silky, long coat. You can brush the coat every few days to keep it looking silky and smooth. Occasional clipping or trimming can help to keep the coat a little shorter, and you should trim the hair around the bottom for hygiene reasons. These dogs are low shedders, and are well suited to those with allergies.

Silky Terrier Health Problems and Life Expectancy

The Silky Terrier has a life expectancy of around 13-16 years, and there are a number of health problems linked to the breed. Some of these include Legg-Perthes, luxating patella, epilepsy, collapsing trachea, and allergies. The parents of the Silky Terrier puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates.

Silky Terrier History

The Silky Terrier originates from Sydney, Australia, and is the result of crossing Australian Terriers with Yorkshire Terriers. They were developed as rat hunters and pets, and the breed was registered with the AKC in 1959.