Silky Terrier

Yorkshire Terrier dogs arrived in Australia from England in the late 1800s and were bred with native blue and tan Australian Terriers to achieve a steel blue and tan coat color. The dog was once known as the Sydney Silky Terrier and then the Australian Silky Terrier. Americans shortened the name to the Silky Terrier in the 1950s. They are a moderately popular breed.

Owners need to be ready for a dog with a big personality as the Silky Terrier has it in spades. They require a calm and consistent hand when training which should be focused on positive reinforcement methods. While small, the Silky enjoys an active lifestyle, so ideal owners will include them on walks, family outings, and more.

Despite being petite, the Silky Terrier needs exercise to stimulate their bright and bold minds. They do well with training and dog sports. They are smart dogs, so puzzles and games can help mentally exhaust them.

Because of their pint-size stature, Silky Terriers are adaptable to city living so long as they have plenty of play and exercise time outdoors. They do well with apartment living but tend to bark a lot, something to consider if you have neighbors in close proximity.

The glossy and silky coat of the Silky Terrier needs regular brushing and combing to remove tangles and mats.

Silky Terrier dogs do not like to be ignored and will want to be stimulated often mentally and physically. They can be charming and funny, but it’s important to train them so that they are well-mannered and not mischievous.

Silky Terriers make good family dogs when trained and socialized properly. They are generally good-natured, but do best with older children who can respect the dog’s boundaries and not treat them like stuffed animals.

The cost of a Silky Terrier from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.