The Silky Terrier is a small, compact dog characterized by its long, silky, and glossy coat that parts down the spine.

9-10 inches at the shoulder

8-11 pounds

Straight, silky, and glossy; should not reach the floor

Blue and tan; blue saddle with tan points on the head, legs, and around the base of the tail

Moderately long, with a well-defined stop and a wedge-shaped muzzle

Small, dark, and almond-shaped, with an intelligent expression

Small, V-shaped, carried erect

Traditionally docked (where permitted), carried erect or semi-erect

Silkys are known for their lively, confident, and friendly temperament, blending the affectionate nature of a toy breed with the spirited alertness of a terrier.

Keenly aware of their surroundings and quick to bark at anything unusual.

Generally good with people, including children, when properly socialized.

Possess a bold and self-assured demeanor.

Curious and love to explore.

Enjoy games and activities with their family.

Quick learners, but can be independent-minded.

Silky Terriers are best suited for individuals or families who can provide them with consistent training, regular grooming, and plenty of attention.

Good watchdogs.

Prone to certain health issues.

The ideal owner for a Silky Terrier is someone who appreciates a lively, intelligent companion and is committed to providing consistent training, regular grooming, and a loving home. They thrive in environments where they are included in family activities.

Silky Terriers require regular grooming to maintain their coat, a balanced diet, and a comfortable living environment, preferably indoors.

Brush several times a week, with daily brushing being ideal, to prevent mats and tangles. Regular bathing is also necessary.

High-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Primarily indoor dogs, but they enjoy having access to a securely fenced yard.

Regular teeth brushing to prevent dental disease.

Trim nails regularly, usually every few weeks.

Check and clean ears weekly to prevent infections.

Silky Terriers are intelligent and moderately easy to train, though they can have a stubborn streak. They require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.

Silkys respond well to positive reinforcement methods, such as praise, treats, and play. Early socialization and consistent training are crucial to prevent them from developing small dog syndrome. Their independent nature means patience and persistence are key. Short, engaging training sessions are more effective than long, repetitive ones.

Despite their small size, Silkys have a moderate energy level. Daily walks, playtime in a securely fenced yard, and interactive games are sufficient to meet their needs. They also enjoy activities like agility and obedience training, which provide mental stimulation.

Expose them to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age.

Use rewards-based training for best results.

Maintain a consistent routine and rules.

Provide puzzle toys and games to keep their minds engaged.

Avoid carrying them everywhere; let them walk and interact on their own.

Ensure your yard is securely fenced, as they can be escape artists.

Silky Terriers are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions.

A condition where the kneecap dislocates, causing pain and lameness.

A degeneration of the hip joint, leading to pain and lameness.

A weakening of the tracheal rings, causing coughing and difficulty breathing.

A metabolic disorder affecting the body's ability to regulate blood sugar.

A neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.

The Silky Terrier's roots trace back to late 19th-century Australia. It was primarily developed from crosses between the Australian Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier, with some Dandie Dinmont Terrier and Skye Terrier potentially in the mix. The goal was to create a dog that retained the terrier's spirited personality but with a finer, silkier coat. Initially, there was considerable variation in type, but selective breeding led to standardization. The breed was officially recognized in Australia in the early 1900s, though two separate standards existed until 1959 when one agreed-upon standard was published. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Silky Terrier in 1959.

While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, Silky Terriers produce less dander than many other breeds and are considered a good choice for people with mild allergies.

Yes, when properly socialized, Silky Terriers can be good with children. However, supervision is always recommended, especially with younger children.

They need daily walks and playtime, totaling around 30-60 minutes of activity per day.

They are intelligent and can learn quickly, but they can also be independent. Consistent, positive reinforcement training is key.

They can be prone to barking, especially when alerting to strangers or unusual sounds. Early training can help manage this.

The average lifespan of a Silky Terrier is 12-15 years.

Ideally, brush them daily to prevent matting. Bathing should be done as needed, usually every few weeks.

With proper socialization, they can get along well with other dogs. However, they may have a tendency to be bossy with other small dogs.

Yes, they can adapt well to apartment living as long as their exercise needs are met.

You can check with Silky Terrier rescue organizations or look for reputable breeders.