Silky Terrier

Australian Silky Terrier, Sydney Silky
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Silky Terrier is a small, lively dog breed originating from Australia, known for its beautiful silky coat and spirited temperament. They are affectionate with family but can be reserved with strangers, needing consistent training and moderate exercise.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in Australia in the early 20th century.
  • Originally bred to hunt and kill rodents and snakes.

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female9-10 inches (23-26 cm)8-11 pounds (3.6-5 kg)
Male9-10 inches (23-26 cm)8-11 pounds (3.6-5 kg)

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Blue and tan
  • Silver and tan
  • Grey and tan
Type
  • Silky
  • Fine
  • Straight
Length
  • Long
  • Flowing

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Low
Grooming
  • Daily brushing
  • Regular bathing
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Moderately long
  • Strong
Skull
  • Flat between the ears
  • Moderately broad
Ears
  • Small
  • V-shaped
  • Set high
  • Erect
Eyes
  • Small
  • Oval
  • Dark
Nose
  • Black
Muzzle
  • Strong
  • Well-defined
Teeth
  • Scissor bite
Neck
  • Medium length
  • Slightly arched
Forequarters
  • Shoulders well laid back
Fore Legs
  • Straight
  • Fine boned
Hindquarters
  • Strong
  • Well-angulated
Hind Legs
  • Straight
  • Parallel
Feet
  • Small
  • Cat-like
  • Padded
Tail
  • Set high
  • Carried erect or slightly curved
  • May be docked or left natural
Gait
  • Free
  • Smooth
  • Light

Temperament

  • Alert
  • Spirited
  • Affectionate
  • Playful
  • Intelligent
  • Bold
  • Independent

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • High
Good with Children
  • Good with older children
  • Supervise with younger children
Good with Dogs
  • Moderate
  • Can be selective
Good with Cats
  • Moderate
Openness to Strangers
  • Reserved
  • Can be wary
Playfulness Level
  • High
Protective Nature
  • Moderate
Adaptability Level
  • Moderate

Working Roles

  • Companion
  • Rodent control

Exercise Needs

  • Moderate
  • Daily walk
  • Play sessions

Health

  • Generally healthy
  • Potential for patellar luxation
  • Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
  • Tracheal collapse

Additional Notes

  • Requires consistent training.
  • Can be prone to barking.
  • Not suitable for very young children due to their size.

References