Australian Cattle Dog vs Silky Terrier
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Cattle Dog: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Silky Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Australian Cattle Dog: May be Stubborn0.2
Silky Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Cattle Dog: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Silky Terrier: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Cattle Dog3/5
Silky Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Cattle Dog3/5
Silky Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Cattle Dog3/5
Silky Terrier4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Australian Cattle Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss risk
OCD: Obsessive behavioral patterns
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Eye Problems: Various ocular concerns
Silky Terrier
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Dental Issues: Tooth decay risk
Tracheal Collapse: Breathing difficulty
Pros & Cons Comparison
Australian Cattle Dog
Pros
Extremely loyal and protective
Highly intelligent
Excellent work ethic
Great endurance
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise requirements
Can be stubborn
May nip at heels
Needs constant mental stimulation
Can be territorial
Silky Terrier
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
Australian Cattle Dog Fun Fact
These dogs often have a unique mask-like marking around their eyes, earning them the nickname 'masked merle.'
Silky Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their refined appearance, Silky Terriers were originally bred as capable rat hunters in Sydney's harbors.
Heritage & Purpose
Australian Cattle Dog
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1800s for cattle herding in harsh outback conditions. These dogs were bred to manage livestock across vast distances with minimal supervision.
Silky Terrier
Origin:
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.
Special Considerations
Australian Cattle Dog
Needs extensive exercise and mental stimulation daily. Regular brushing required during shedding seasons. Early socialization crucial for balanced temperament.
Silky Terrier
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.
Shedding
RegularlyShedding
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