Silky Terrier Breed Profile: Essential Facts
Silky Terriers are alert, energetic and affectionate.
- AKC Group: Toy
- Weight: 8–11 lbs.
- Height: 9–10 in.
- Life Span: 12–15 years
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Key Characteristics
Silky Terriers are small, loving dogs with Australian roots. The eyes are almond-shaped and dark in color. The small ears are triangular and stand up on the head. The feet are small and -- funny enough -- resemble the feet of a cat. The tail stands up on the back of the body and is usually docked.
The coat is long and silky, and it parts in the middle of the back. The color of the coat is black when the dogs are born, but it can change into one of the many other coat colors for this breed: Black Black and tan Blue Blue and tan Blue silver and tan Cream Fawn Gray Gray and tan Silver and tan Silver black and tan Silver and platinum
Where They Came From
Silky Terriers were created in the 1800s by crossing a Yorkshire Terrier and an Australian Terrier.
The new breed was initially referred to as the Sydney Silky Terrier. In 1955, it was renamed Australian Silky Terrier. Eventually, the Silky Terrier and Australian Silky Terrier were separated into different breeds. The breed appeared in the United States when soldiers brought the dogs back from World War II.
Breed standards were written in 1906 and 1909 in Australia. A revised breed standard was issued in 1926. The Silky Terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1959.
How Friendly Are They?
Silky Terriers are affectionate, smart and friendly. They are great watch dogs because of their alertness, but they can also be stubborn. They act more like terriers than typical lap dogs.
They are good with children and other pets, and are adaptable. They like to be close to family members and don't do well being ignored or left alone for a long time.
According to Vince Stead, author of Fun Training Your Silky Terrier Puppy and Dog, separation anxiety or changes in the household can cause a Silky Terrier to have urination accidents. Limit your time away from your dog and have a plan in place if you need to be gone for a long time.
Is This the Right Dog for You?
Exercise Needs
MEDIUM: This breed is more terrier-like than toy, so expect a lot of energy and stamina. The dogs like to play and spend time outdoors. Daily walks are a necessity. Silky Terriers are adaptable and active indoors, so they do well in apartments or urban areas.
Grooming Needs
MEDIUM: There is little-to-no shedding, but you'll need to brush your Silky Terrier every day. The coat mats easily. The hair can split and tangle. Using a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner can alleviate these problems. Bathe your Silky Terrier often to keep the hair in good condition.
Also, trim the coat to stay off the ground and trim the hairs around the ears, between the eyes and on the feet (in addition to regular maintenance such as teeth brushing, nail trimming and ear cleaning).
Health Problems
LOW: Possible health problems include: Patellar luxation Eye disease Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease Hypothyroidism
Let's take a closer look at these smart, tenacious canines:
Where to Adopt One
Shelters and rescues should be your first steps in finding a Silky Terrier. If you contact a breeder, make sure the dog's parents are healthy and are being raised in good conditions.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, Yorkies (Yorkshire Terriers) and Silky Terriers are different breeds. Silky Terriers are slightly larger, have a longer body, and a silkier coat, while Yorkies are smaller and have a finer coat.
Yes, Silky Terriers are naturally alert and vocal, often barking at unfamiliar noises or people. Training can help manage excessive barking.
A Silky Terrier puppy typically costs between $1,000 and $3,000, depending on the breeder, lineage, and location.
Yes, Silky Terriers enjoy cuddling with their owners, but they are also independent and energetic, often preferring playtime before settling down for affection.
Additional Resources
- American Kennel Club's Silky Terrier page
- Silky Terrier Club of America, Inc.
- Silky Terrier Rescue
- Australian Silky Terrier Club of Victoria
Kristine Lacoste has been researching dog and cat breeds for nearly a decade and has observed the animals up close at dog shows in both the United States and the United Kingdom. She is the author of the book One Unforgettable Journey, which was named as a finalist for a Maxwell Award from the Dog Writers Association of America, and was host of a weekly pet news segment on the National K-9 Academy Radio Show. In addition, she was the New Orleans coordinator for Dogs on Deployment, a nonprofit that helps military members and their pets, for 3 years. Kristine has researched and written about pet behaviors and care for many years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, another bachelor’s degree in English and a Master of Business Administration degree.
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