Silky Terriers: A guide to dogs and puppies of the Silky Terrier breed

The Silky Terrier!

The Silky Terrier, also referred to as the Sidney Terrier, is a lightly built yet compact dog. It has a wide, flat head, erect ears and a sturdy jaw that reveal teeth that form a scissor bite. The eyes of the Silky Terrier are dark and round and display a very intense expression. The body of this dog is long and covered with long and silky hair that is quite prone to matting and tangling, especially when not professionally groomed. The Silky Terrier’s coat, which is parted at the center of its back, should not be permitted to reach the floor.

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
12-15 years

Energy Level:
Boisterous & Playful.

Living Conditions:
Fine for apartments.

Barking:
High.

Exercise Needs:
Self-active dog. Compliment with brief daily walk.

Breed Group:
Terrier

Size:
Small

Height:
9-10 inches

Weight:
8-11 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
Black, blue & fire red shades or blue with tan markings.

National breed club:
The Silky Terrier Club of America

Silky Terrier Skills

The Silky Terrier was developed during the 19th century in Australia. The breed was primarily a cross between the Australian Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier and also had influences from the Skye and Cairn Terrier dogs. American soldiers who were stationed in Australia during World War II brought the Silky Terrier to the United States after the war. It has always been regarded as a companion dog although it can also catch domestic rodents.

Silky Terrier Personality

The Silky Terrier, while affectionate to its master, is hardly a gentle lap dog. It is very boisterous and playful and generally enjoys the company of children. They express their curiosity by digging. The Silky Terrier can also be trained to become good watch dogs, because of their alert nature. However, they have the tendency to become barkers and can get jealous of other animals, if not guided properly.

Exercise Needs

Being a very active breed, the Silky Terrier will enjoy being allowed to run around and play. However, it can easily adjust to its owners living conditions.

Living Conditions

The Silky Terrier can easily adapt to small living areas. They are very active indoors and do not require a large yard.

Grooming Requirements

The Silky Terrier requires daily combing and brushing because its long and silky coat is prone to matting and tangling. The coat and the hair on its legs from the knees down must also be trimmed periodically. Make sure that the dog is thoroughly dry after bathing. Tie the hair across the eye area into a topknot to allow the Silky Terrier to see well.

Health Issues

While the Silky Terrier is generally healthy, it can also be susceptible to elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, invertebral disc disease and Legg-Perthes.

If you liked this dog…

You may also take a liking to the Golden Retriever. Aside from having a lush, golden coat, this dog is very well-mannered, obedient and intelligent, making them a good choice for a family dog.