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Silky Terrier Dog Breed Information

  • AKA:Sydney Silky, Australian Silky Terrier
  • 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
  • Weight:8 - 11 lbs
  • Height:9 - 10 inches
  • Coat Colour:Blue and tan

Silky Terrier Coat

The Silky Terrier's coat is virtually non-shedding and odorless. Their coat is one of the breed's most prominent features. It is straight, silky, and shiny. Unlike the Yorkie, whose coat flows to the floor, the Silky coat is shorter and conforms to the shape of the body. The texture is much like human hair. The color of the coat may be blue and red, or blue and tan

Silky Terrier Character

The Silky Terrier is an excellent companion. This breed has a keen alertness and a true Terrier nature. They can, on occasion, exhibit defiance and stubbornness. They do not like to be left alone for extended periods of time and do best when someone is home for most of the day. The Silky makes an excellent watchdog.

Silky Terrier Temperament

The Silky Terrier is generally happy and loves to play. They are bold in action and have a mischievous streak. This breed loves to dig and bark. The Silky is most suited for older, well-behaved children. They are extremely territorial and may exhibit aggression toward other dogs. They love to chase cats, so raising them with cats from puppy-hood is highly recommended.

Silky Terrier Care

The Silky Terrier's coat is highly susceptible to tangles and matting. They require daily brushing and combing. This breed requires a deep commitment from their owners. To keep the coat lustrous regular shampooing is necessary. The Silky is prone to several disorders including luxating patella, tracheal collapse, and epilepsy.

Silky Terrier Activity

The Silky Terrier is a bundle of energy. They love to be given chances to run and play, but must have a tightly fenced yard. They also enjoy brisk walks and playing ball. The Silky is able to do well in an apartment, although they are also an active indoor breed. It is important they are kept busy and social to discourage boredom

Silky Terrier Health 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.