Origin: Australia
Origin of Name: The Australian Silky Terrier or simply Silky Terrier is a small breed of dog of the terrier dog type.
Size | Temperament | Shedding | Drooling | Monthly keeping cost | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Small | Zero High |
Negligible Hair Everywhere |
Zero Excess |
|
The casual observer may be forgiven at first glance for mistaking a silky for a Yorkshire or Australian terrier. After all, Yorkies and Australians were the main components used by Australian breeders during silty making in the early 20th century. Other breeds that may be factors in silky development (depending on the storyteller) include Cairn, Dandy Dinmont and Sky Terrier, three of the many British terriers brought to Australia by English settlers. For the record, Silky is older than Yorkies and younger than Australian.
The Silky Terrier’s coat should be brushed at least twice a week with a pin brush or soft bristle brush. A long-toothed metal dog comb can also come in handy for gently working through areas where tangles may be beginning to form. Left unattended, tangles and mats are uncomfortable for your dog and can cause skin problems to develop. The nails should be trimmed once a month, and a bath every four to six weeks with a gentle shampoo meant for dogs will help to keep the coat and skin clean and healthy. Grooming sessions are a good time to check the dog all over for any new lumps or skin problems, and to check that the eyes and ears are healthy and trouble free.
Silky terriers can adapt well to any living situation, but require owners who have time to devote to them - they don't like being ignored, playing with their family or going on a walk I like it. Taken by the lure of the breed, owners may be tempted to let silky terriers get away with unwanted behavior; It is best to make rules and make sure to follow them. The breed has a strong hunting drive, and a leash is required when running outdoors.
More terrier than lapdog, silky terrier requires more exercise than most toy group breeds. Intelligent, courageous and energetic, Silky needs human partners who will know how to put that energy into daily exercise and sports and work training. The breed does well in the structure ring, and the silky companions have been successful in events, especially agility.
Silky terriers should be fed high-quality dog food suitable for the dog's age (puppy, adult, or senior) and ideally prepared for small or toy breeds. Give table scraps at least, if at all, especially avoiding cooked bones and foods with too much fat. Know which human foods are safe for dogs and which are not. Contact your vet if you have any concerns about your dog's weight or diet.
While silky terriers are generally healthy dogs, there are many health and genetic screening considerations specific to the breed. Responsible breeders have tested their stock for conditions that may pose a breed threat, including patellar laxation and eye disease. A silky terrier's ears should be examined regularly for signs of infection, and teeth should be brushed frequently using toothpaste designed for dogs. Regular visits to the vet for checkups and parasite control help the dog ensure a longer, healthier life.
Recommended health tests from the National Breed Club: