Australian Silky Terrier

The Australian Silky Terrier, often simply called the Silky Terrier, was developed in Australia in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Unlike its namesake, the Australian Terrier (which has a harsh, wiry coat), the Silky was intentionally bred for a finer, more luxurious, silky coat, primarily as a companion dog, though it retains its terrier instincts for hunting small vermin. The breed’s development involved crossing Yorkshire Terriers, brought to Australia by English immigrants, with native Australian Terriers.

The goal was to create a dog that combined the sturdiness and spirit of the Australian Terrier with the beautiful silky coat of the Yorkshire Terrier, but with a slightly larger and more robust build than the Yorkie. Early development occurred primarily in Sydney and surrounding areas of New South Wales. Initially, there was some variation in type and name (sometimes called the Sydney Silky). Breed standards were eventually established, and the Australian Silky Terrier gained recognition as a distinct breed. The American Kennel Club recognized the Silky Terrier in 1959. They are cherished worldwide for their elegant appearance and spirited terrier personality.

The Australian Silky Terrier possesses a temperament that is a delightful blend of toy breed affection and true terrier spirit. They are highly intelligent, alert, and curious about the world, always ready for an adventure or a bit of excitement. Silkies are known for their confidence and courage, often displaying a “big dog in a small body” attitude, and they are fearless for their size. They form strong, loyal bonds with their families and are typically very affectionate, enjoying playtime and cuddles.

However, their terrier heritage means they can also be independent, feisty, and sometimes stubborn. They have a keen instinct to chase small animals and may enjoy digging if given the chance. Silkies are excellent watchdogs and will readily bark to announce strangers or anything unusual. Early and consistent socialization is crucial to ensure they are well-mannered around new people and other dogs, as they can sometimes be assertive with other canines. They thrive on interaction and can become bored or mischievous if left alone for long periods without enough stimulation.

The Australian Silky Terrier’s most distinctive feature is its long, straight, fine, glossy, and silky single coat (no undercoat). The coat is parted from the stop to the tail and flows down the body. While beautiful, this coat requires regular and dedicated grooming to keep it free from tangles and mats and looking its best.

Daily or at least every-other-day brushing and combing down to the skin are essential. A pin brush, slicker brush, and a fine-toothed metal comb are necessary tools. Pay particular attention to areas prone to matting, such as behind the ears, under the legs, and the belly. The hair on top of the head (the topknot) is often tied up with a bow or clip to keep it out of their eyes and prevent irritation. Regular baths with a quality dog shampoo and conditioner (suited for silky coats) will keep the coat clean and lustrous. Many owners opt for professional grooming every few weeks, especially if they prefer a slightly shorter, more manageable pet trim. Regular nail trims, ear cleaning, and diligent dental care are also crucial, as toy breeds are often prone to dental problems.

Australian Silky Terriers are active and energetic little dogs that require moderate daily exercise to stay physically fit and mentally stimulated. Despite their toy size, they have the stamina and playfulness of a true terrier. They are not couch potatoes and enjoy having things to do.

Aim for one or two daily walks, along with opportunities for indoor or outdoor playtime. Good exercise options include:

• Brisk daily walks on a leash.
• Playtime in a securely fenced yard. They enjoy games like fetch with small toys, chasing balls, or exploring.
• Interactive games that challenge their intelligent minds, such as puzzle toys or learning new tricks.
• Some Silkies enjoy and can excel in canine sports like agility (on a smaller scale) or Earthdog trials (if their terrier instincts are strong).

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise to prevent boredom, which can lead to undesirable behaviors such as excessive barking or digging. They are adaptable and can do well in apartment living as long as their exercise and companionship needs are consistently met.

Australian Silky Terriers are generally a healthy and long-lived breed, but like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain genetic health conditions. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for these issues. Potential health concerns include:

• Patellar Luxation: Dislocation of the kneecap, common in toy and small breeds.
• Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease: A hip joint disorder affecting small breeds, leading to degeneration of the head of the femur bone.
• Tracheal Collapse: A condition where the windpipe weakens, more common in toy breeds. Using a harness instead of a collar for walks is often recommended.
• Dental Issues: Due to their small mouths, they can be prone to overcrowding, tartar buildup, and gum disease, leading to early tooth loss if not managed.
• Eye Problems: Including Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and glaucoma.
• Diabetes Mellitus:** Can occur in the breed.
• Epilepsy:** Seizure disorders have been noted in some lines.