Read About Silky Terrier

<ImageSilky Terrier a big dog in a little dog body has a lot of fight. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Summary:

  1. Size:

    Small built body.
  2. Weight:

    10-18 lbs
  3. Coat:

    The coat is long and silky.
  4. Shedding:

    Very little or no shedding.
  5. Temperament:

    Robust, playful and happy
  6. Obedience:

    Very obedient
  7. Ease of Training:

    Difficult to train
  8. Way with Children:

    Not appropriate for small children.

Silky Terrier -- Facts

  1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

    Toy Dog, 1959
  2. Size & Weight:

    9-10 inches, 8-11 lbs.
  3. Coat:

    The coat is harsh and straight, about 21/2 inches all over its body, with a distinctive ruff and apron, and a soft, silky topknot.
  4. Head & Muzzle:

    The head may appear to be wedge-shaped, and long. They will have small, dark, or almond shaped eyes. Their ears are small with a v-shaped appearance and erect. The skull is flat and average between the ears. The skull is longer than the muzzle with black teeth and nose.
  5. Body:

    The body is small but medium boned with a long arched neckline. Its head is long with pricked ears and black-rimmed eyes.
  6. Colors:

    The colors may range from and tan that may be deep and rich or a blue color that may be silver, pigeon or slate.
  7. Life Expectancy:

    11-14 years
  8. Popularity:

    They are the 68th most popular breed out of 151 breeds rated by the AKC.
  9. Habitat:

    This breed is ideally suited in an apartment environment and likes being indoors.

Silky Terrier -- Origins

  1. Country of Origin:

    Australia
  2. Historical Information:

    The Silky was the result of the cross breeding of the Australian Terrier with the Yorkshire Terrier.

Silky Terrier -- Defining Characteristics

  1. Temperament:

    It may be very shy and excessively nervous, but may be friendly and responsive.
  2. Behavior:

    May have an outburst of being snappy when pushed beyond their level of tolerance.
  3. Habits:

    Very noisy, likes to have own way.

Silky Terrier -- Concerns

  1. Health Issues:

    These dogs are normally healthy and will seldom need treatment of illnesses. Rotten teeth are the biggest health concern.
  2. Exercise Needs:

    Best suited for indoor living, and needs little exercise.
  3. Grooming Needs:

    It is important to brush their hair at least twice a week. You will need to have some type of lanolin oil for their hair and prefers daily grooming. Their hair needs are compared to humans and may be subject to dryness.
  4. Travel Needs:

    The crate with sufficient bedding material is the safest way for the Terrier to travel.
  5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

    May snap at other dogs and chase cats, but are suitable with children.

Silky Terrier -- How to Choose

  1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

    Make sure that the puppy has a clean coat without rashes. Their eyes should not be cloudy, but clear and bright. Check to see if the puppy has a good appetite.
  2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

    You will need to purchase quality food for a balanced diet. Liver is a good treat for them. Most Silkies love the climate of Australia and owners need to make sure that they can meet those demands.
  3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

    You should never leave food, candy, or dirty dishes in their reach. Make sure that all papers, books or magazines are removed to prevent chewing or making a mess with torn paper.