Silky Terrier
Quick Summary
Elegant and alert companion ideal for active owners seeking a small but spirited dog. Best suited for those who appreciate regular grooming and can provide consistent training.
Contents
Weight Range
10-10 lbs
♂ Male: 8-10 lbs
♀ Female: 8-10 lbs
Height Range
23-25 inches
♂ Male: 9-10"
♀ Female: 9-10"
Life Expectancy
13-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #68
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Toy Group
Originally bred for Developed in Australia during the late 19th century, these terriers excelled at hunting small vermin in urban areas while maintaining their role as refined companion dogs
Popularity
#112
Less common breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 9"-10" |
| Female Height | 9"-10" |
| Male Weight | 8-10 lbs |
| Female Weight | 8-10 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $800-$2000 for purchase, plus supplies. Monthly expenses cover premium food ($30-40), grooming ($50-70), and preventive care. Annual veterinary costs average $300-500 for routine care.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Alert and spirited terriers combining intelligence with independence. Their moderate energy levels balance well with their watchdog tendencies. Social with family but may be reserved with strangers, displaying typical terrier confidence.
Social Needs
Thrives on family interaction and forms strong bonds with owners. Generally good with other dogs but may need early socialization. Can handle short periods alone but prefers company and engagement.
Breed Overview
Silky Terriers possess a striking silky blue and tan coat that flows gracefully to the ground. Their refined appearance belies their tenacious terrier spirit, featuring a wedge-shaped head, almond eyes, and small V-shaped ears. Standing 9-10 inches tall, these compact dogs combine elegant looks with alert, spirited personalities, making them both beautiful companions and capable watchdogs.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Low shedding coat
- ✓ Excellent watchdog
- ✓ Adaptable to apartment living
- ✓ Intelligent and trainable
Cons
- ✗ Regular grooming required
- ✗ Can be vocal
- ✗ May chase small animals
- ✗ Stubborn streak
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Friendly, Quick, Keenly Alert |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Agreeable |
| Grooming Needs | 2-3 Times a Week Brushing |
| Shedding | Occasional |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Silky Terriers require 45-60 minutes of daily exercise, combining brisk walks with interactive play sessions. Their moderate energy level suits both indoor games and outdoor activities, maintaining a balanced intensity that prevents boredom without exhaustion.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for dental health due to small jaw size. Premium protein sources recommended for coat maintenance.
Feed 1/2-1 cup premium dry dog food daily, divided into two meals. Choose small-breed formulas rich in protein and fatty acids for coat health. Monitor portion sizes to prevent weight gain in this small breed.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Well-suited to apartment living with adequate exercise. These adaptable dogs thrive in both urban and suburban settings, preferring moderate climates but managing well in various conditions.
Minimum space requirements are modest, making them suitable for apartment living. Adapt well to various environments but need secure outdoor areas. Indoor living preferred with regular outdoor access.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Australian breeders developed Silky Terriers by crossing Yorkshire Terriers with Australian Terriers in Sydney during the late 1800s. Their goal was to create a refined yet capable vermin hunter that could also serve as an elegant companion.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Australia during the late 19th century, these terriers excelled at hunting small vermin in urban areas while maintaining their role as refined companion dogs.
Fun Fact
Despite their refined appearance, Silky Terriers were originally bred as capable rat hunters in Sydney's harbors.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular coat maintenance essential with brushing 2-3 times weekly. Moderate exercise needs must be met. Dental care crucial due to common oral health issues.