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Home Blog Dogs Australian Silky Terriers: The Perfect Small Dog for Active Families
Australian Silky Terriers: The Perfect Small Dog for Active Families

Australian Silky Terriers: The Perfect Small Dog for Active Families

CharacteristicsDetails
HeightAustralian Silky Terriers typically stand between 9 and 10 inches tall at the shoulder, making them a small, compact breed.
WeightAustralian Silky Terriers usually weigh between 8 and 10 pounds, maintaining a small yet sturdy and muscular build.
Life SpanThe Australian Silky Terrier has a life span of approximately 12 to 15 years, with proper care and a healthy lifestyle.
Coat ColourAustralian Silky Terriers typically have a coat that comes in shades of blue and tan, with the blue ranging from silver to steel-blue, and the tan being rich and warm, usually covering the face, chest, and legs.
Suitable forAustralian Silky Terriers are suitable for individuals or families looking for a small, lively companion. They thrive in both flats and houses, making them ideal for urban living, and do well with active owners who can provide regular exercise and mental stimulation. They are also suitable for older children and families who can handle their grooming needs.
TemperamentAustralian Silky Terriers have a lively, confident, and affectionate temperament. They are loyal companions, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Despite their small size, they are bold and alert, making them excellent watchdogs. They are playful and energetic, enjoying interactive activities and games, but can also be a bit stubborn at times. With proper training and socialisation, they are friendly and well-mannered, though they may exhibit a strong prey drive due to their terrier instincts.

The Ultimate Guide to the Australian Silky Terrier: Breed Overview, Care, and Ownership

Table of Contents:

Discover the Australian Silky Terrierโ€™s temperament, grooming, exercise needs, and suitability as a loyal companion for families or apartment living.
The Australian Silky Terrier, small yet fearless, embodies elegance and spirit. Their loyalty, intelligence, and lively nature bring joy and companionship, making them the perfect little dog with a big heart.
  1. Introduction
  2. Origins of the Australian Silky Terrier
  3. Physical Characteristics
  4. Temperament and Personality
  5. Intelligence and Trainability
  6. Exercise Needs
  7. Grooming and Coat Care
  8. Health and Lifespan
  9. Suitability as a Family Dog
  10. Living Conditions and Space Requirements
  11. Dietary Needs
  12. Pros and Cons of Owning an Australian Silky Terrier
  13. Conclusion: Is the Australian Silky Terrier the Right Breed for You?
  14. FAQs About the Australian Silky Terrier

1. Introduction

The Australian Silky Terrier is a small yet vibrant breed known for its elegant coat, lively personality, and loyal nature. Although often confused with its close cousin, the Yorkshire Terrier, the Silky Terrier has distinct characteristics that set it apart. It is an affectionate and active dog that thrives on human interaction and enjoys being a part of family life. With its compact size, the Australian Silky Terrier is ideal for city and suburban living as long as it gets sufficient exercise and stimulation.

This guide provides an in-depth look at the Australian Silky Terrierโ€™s origins, care requirements, and temperament, helping you determine if this breed fits your household. Whether youโ€™re new to the breed or a seasoned dog owner, youโ€™ll find everything you need to know about living with and caring for this charming little terrier.

2. Origins of the Australian Silky Terrier

The Australian Silky Terrierโ€™s origins are rooted in a fascinating mix of chance and intentional breeding. Although the exact historical timeline is somewhat unclear, the breed began to take shape in Australia in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. During this time, English immigrants arrived with various small terrier breeds they had brought from their homeland. These dogs, which included breeds like the Skye Terrier, Scottish Terrier, Paisley Terrier, Black & Tan Terrier, Clydesdale Terrier, Waterside Terrier, and Norwich Terrier, served both practical and companionship roles.

The Australian Silky Terrier originated in late 19th-century Australia from crossbreeding Yorkshire and Australian Terriers. Initially bred for vermin control, the breed later developed into a companion dog known for its silky coat and lively personality. Officially recognised in 1959, the Silky Terrier remains a popular, adaptable pet today.

In the early days of Australiaโ€™s colonisation, these tiny terriers were used to control vermin and protect livestock, serving as an essential tool for early settlers. Terriers were favoured because of their compact size, which made it easy for them to bring on long sailing voyages to Australia and their agility and bravery when dealing with pests. These dogs were often crossbred with each other, sometimes randomly, creating various terrier types that had rough or broken coats. This group of dogs became the foundation for what would eventually be known as the Australian Terrier.

The first public display of these broken-coated terriers was in 1872 at the Royal Melbourne Show. Here, the terriers were divided into two classesโ€”dogs under 7 pounds and those over 7 pounds. The lighter terriers were referred to as Broken Coated Toy Terriers. A few years later, in 1888, the show recognised these dogs under a different name: Broken Coated Blue Terriers. As time passed, blue and tan became the dominant coat colours, leading to the breedโ€™s evolution into what was known as the Australian Terrier.

At this point in the breedโ€™s history, two distinct terriers emerged: one with a coarse, wiry coat and the other with a much softer coat. Breeders in Australia focused on refining these physical characteristics, and introducing the Dandie Dinmont Terrier into the bloodlines in Tasmania helped enhance the softness of the coat and the prominence of the dogsโ€™ top knots. Around this time, the Yorkshire Terrier was introduced into the breeding programme, further improving the texture and length of the dogsโ€™ coats.

The Yorkshire Terrierโ€™s influence on these terriers, especially in terms of their coat texture, helped produce a more elegant and refined appearance, leading to the silky-haired dogs we know today. The breed started to gain recognition, and by 1904, the first formal breed standard was established by the Victorian Silky and Yorkshire Club. A distinct type was forming, particularly in the Sydney area, where breeders sought to create a dog that combined the beauty of the Yorkshire Terrierโ€™s silky coat with the Australian Terrierโ€™s sturdier, more practical qualities.

The Sydney Silky Club was founded by breed enthusiasts, and in 1911, the Silky Terrier was finally recognised as a unique breed. This marked a significant turning point in the breedโ€™s development, as breeders focused exclusively on preserving the Silky Terrierโ€™s distinct traits. By 1934, the Kennel Control Council of Australia prohibited crossbreeding with Yorkshire or Australian Terriers, ensuring the breed remained pure. This ruling was crucial in shaping the modern Silky Terrier, setting the foundation for the current breed standard.

Official recognition of the Australian Silky Terrier came in 1959, when it was given its current name and a definitive breed standard was established. This marked the breedโ€™s official distinction from its Yorkshire and Australian Terrier ancestors. The silky coat, alert personality, and small yet sturdy build made the breed a favourite in homes around the world.

The Silky Terrierโ€™s Global Appeal and Evolution

Though less popular than the Yorkshire Terrier, the Australian Silky Terrier developed a dedicated following, particularly in Australia, where it continues to be adored for its manageable size, minimal shedding, and lively personality. The breed also gained popularity abroad, particularly in the UK and the United States. However, finding well-bred Silkies can be challenging, particularly in the UK, where waiting lists are often long, and puppies can command high prices.

The Australian Silky Terrier appeals with its elegant coat, lively personality, and compact size. Loyal, intelligent, and low-shedding, they are perfect companions for both city living and families, offering affection and adaptability.

One of the breedโ€™s most influential promoters was MacArthur Little, a breed enthusiast who worked tirelessly to popularise the Australian Silky Terrier globally. His efforts helped spread the breedโ€™s reputation, making it more widely known and appreciated.

Historically, the Australian Silky Terrierโ€™s tail was typically docked, a practice common among terrier breeds to prevent injuries, particularly in working dogs. However, in 2007, tail docking was banned in Australia and many other countries, including the UK, with exceptions only for specific working breeds or cases where a medical condition necessitates it. Today, the Silky Terrierโ€™s tail is left natural, and owners embrace the breedโ€™s complete, flowing appearance.

Key Moments in the Development of the Australian Silky Terrier:

  • Late 19th century: English settlers brought small terrier breeds to Australia, leading to random crossbreeding that produced the foundation for the Australian Terrier.
  • 1872: First exhibition of Broken Coated Terriers at the Royal Melbourne Show.
  • 1888: The term Broken Coated Blue Terrier emerged, and the standard blue and tan coat colours became the Broken Coated Blue Terrier.
  • 1904: The Victorian Silky and Yorkshire Club established the first breed standard.
  • 1911: Formal recognition of the breed as the Sydney Silky Terrier.
  • 1934: Crossbreeding between Yorkshire and Australian Terriers was outlawed to preserve breed purity.
    1959: The breed was officially recognised as the Australian Silky Terrier, and a finalised breed standard was adopted.

The Australian Silky Terrierโ€™s development reflects its terrier ancestry and the influence of careful breeding to achieve a specific, refined appearance. The breedโ€™s evolution from working dog to elegant companion highlights its versatility and appeal. Today, Silky Terriers are cherished for their intelligence, loyalty, and lively nature, continuing to capture the hearts of dog lovers worldwide.

3. Physical Characteristics

The Australian Silky Terrier is a small, elegant dog with a silky blue and tan coat. Compact and well-proportioned, it has bright eyes, erect ears, and an alert, confident expression.

The Australian Silky Terrier is a small, compact dog, typically standing between 9 and 10 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing around 8 to 10 pounds. Its most distinctive feature is its long, glossy, straight, and silky coat, often compared to human hair. The coat is usually blue and tan, with the blue colour ranging from light silver-blue to a deeper steel-blue, and the tan being warm and rich, covering the face, legs, and underbelly.

Despite their small size, Silky Terriers are muscular and well-proportioned, giving them a sturdy and agile appearance. They have dark, almond-shaped eyes that reflect their alert and inquisitive nature. Their ears are small, erect, and triangular, adding to their sharp, confident look. The tail is typically docked in countries where this practice is still legal, standing erect to complement their alert posture.

4. Temperament and Personality

Australian Silky Terriers have lively, confident, and affectionate temperaments. They are fiercely loyal to their families and enjoy being involved in daily activities. Despite their small stature, they have prominent personalities and often act like larger dogs, showing courage and determination when needed. They are known for being friendly but can be reserved around strangers, which makes them excellent watchdogs. However, they are not aggressive and will warm up to new people with time and proper socialisation.

They also have a playful and energetic side, always ready for a game or a walk, making them great companions for individuals or families who can match their lively nature. While they can be stubborn sometimes, they respond well to positive reinforcement and consistent training. They thrive on attention and mental stimulation, so interactive play and puzzle toys are ideal for keeping their sharp minds engaged.

5. Intelligence and Trainability

The Australian Silky Terrier is an intelligent breed that excels in learning new commands and tricks. Their sharp minds and eagerness to please make them relatively easy to train, primarily when training is based on positive reinforcement methods. Silky Terriers enjoy the mental challenge of learning, so activities like obedience training, agility, and even trick training can enrich them and their owners.

However, their intelligence can also lead to stubbornness, mainly if they sense inconsistency or leniency. Early training and socialisation are crucial to ensuring a well-behaved and adaptable pet. While they are quick learners, patience is needed to manage their occasional independent streak. Consistent, engaging training sessions will help them develop good manners and make them a joy to live with.

6. Exercise Needs

Australian Silky Terriers need 30 to 60 minutes of daily exercise, including walks and playtime. Regular activity keeps them healthy and prevents boredom-related behaviours like barking or chewing.

Despite their small size, Australian Silky Terriers are highly energetic dogs. They require daily exercise to stay healthy, both physically and mentally. A brisk walk or two and some playtime in the garden or at home will usually suffice to meet their activity needs. Interactive games like fetch or puzzle toys also help burn off excess energy and keep them entertained.

Silky Terriers enjoy exploring and can be surprisingly adventurous, so trips to the park or safe outdoor spaces where they can sniff and roam are great for stimulating them. They can become bored without adequate exercise, which may lead to behavioural issues such as excessive barking or chewing. Engaging them in physical and mental activities keeps them happy and balanced.

7. Grooming and Coat Care

Australian Silky Terriers need daily brushing to prevent tangles. Bathe every few weeks and regularly clean their ears, trim nails, and brush teeth for overall health.

One of the Australian Silky Terrierโ€™s defining features is its long, silky coat, which requires regular grooming to maintain its lustrous appearance. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangles and matting, particularly because the coat can easily pick up dirt and debris during walks or playtime. A good-quality, soft-bristle brush is ideal for maintaining the coatโ€™s shine and texture.

Bathing should be done every few weeks, depending on their activity levels, and itโ€™s crucial to use dog-friendly shampoo to keep their coat healthy. Additionally, regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and teeth brushing should be part of their grooming routine to ensure overall health and well-being. Unlike some other small breeds, the Australian Silky Terrier has a low-shedding coat, making them a good choice for owners who prefer a dog with minimal shedding.

8. Health and Lifespan

The Australian Silky Terrier is generally a healthy breed with a typical lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Like all dogs, it is prone to certain health issues, although responsible breeding can help minimise these risks. Some common health concerns in Silky Terriers include patellar luxation (a knee joint issue), Legg-Calvรฉ-Perthes disease (a hip condition common in small dogs), and dental issues due to its small jaw size.

Routine veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and regular exercise are vital in ensuring your Silky Terrierโ€™s long and healthy life. As with all breeds, early detection of potential health problems can significantly improve treatment and overall quality of life.

9. Suitability as a Family Dog

Australian Silky Terriers make lovely family pets, especially in households that can keep up with their energetic and affectionate nature. They are great with older children who understand how to handle small dogs gently. Their playful, spirited personality makes them excellent companions for families who enjoy interactive play and outdoor activities.

However, because of their small size and somewhat delicate build, they may not be the best choice for families with very young children, who may accidentally handle them too roughly. With proper supervision and early socialisation, they can get along well with other pets, although their terrier instincts might cause them to chase smaller animals, such as cats or rodents.

10. Living Conditions and Space Requirements

Australian Silky Terriers are adaptable and can live comfortably in flats and houses as long as they exercise enough. They do not require a large garden to be happy, but regular walks and playtime are essential for their physical and mental well-being. Because they are small and energetic, they are well-suited for city living, though they enjoy the freedom of running in a secure garden or park whenever possible.

Due to their affectionate nature, Silky Terriers prefer to be with their owners rather than be left alone for long periods. They can become anxious or develop separation anxiety if left unattended too often, so they thrive in homes where they can be part of family life and activities.

11. Dietary Needs

The Australian Silky Terrier has relatively simple dietary requirements. A balanced, high-quality dog food for small breeds is ideal for maintaining their health and energy levels. Their small size means they donโ€™t eat large portions. Still, it is essential to ensure their diet is nutritionally complete and tailored to their activity level, age, and any specific health concerns.

As with all dogs, portion control is essential to avoid obesity, which can lead to health problems. Treats should be given in moderation, and regular vet visits will help ensure your Silky Terrier maintains a healthy weight. Fresh water should always be available, and any changes in diet should be introduced gradually to avoid digestive issues.

12. Pros and Cons of Owning an Australian Silky Terrier

Pros:

  • Loyal and affectionate, forming strong bonds with their owners
  • Small, compact size makes them ideal for flats and city living
  • Intelligent and trainable with a playful, lively personality
  • Low-shedding coat, reducing the amount of fur around the home
  • Great watchdogs due to their alertness and courage

Cons:

  • Requires regular grooming to maintain their long, silky coat
  • Can be stubborn or independent if not trained consistently
  • High energy levels require daily exercise and mental stimulation
  • May develop separation anxiety if left alone too often
  • Not ideal for homes with very young children due to their delicate size

13. Conclusion: Is the Australian Silky Terrier the Right Breed for You?

The Australian Silky Terrier is a charming, loyal, and energetic breed that can make a fantastic companion for the right household. It could be a great match if youโ€™re looking for a small dog with a big personality. However, potential owners should be prepared for regular grooming, daily exercise, and plenty of mental stimulation. Silky Terriers are best suited to homes where they can be active in family life and get the attention they crave.

For families with older children, individuals living in flats, or those looking for an affectionate, alert watchdog, the Australian Silky Terrier offers a delightful mix of intelligence, charm, and companionship.

14. FAQs About the Australian Silky Terrier

Expanded FAQs About the Australian Silky Terrier

Q: How much exercise does an Australian Silky Terrier need?
A: Despite their small size, Australian Silky Terriers are energetic and require regular physical activity to stay healthy and happy. Ideally, they should have at least 30 to 60 minutes of exercise each day. This can include a combination of brisk walks, playtime in the garden, and mental stimulation activities like puzzle toys. They enjoy exploring and can have bursts of energy, so outdoor activities such as fetch or agility training are excellent ways to meet their exercise needs. Silkies can become bored without enough activity and develop behavioural problems, such as barking or chewing.

Q: Are Australian Silky Terriers good with children?
A: Australian Silky Terriers are generally good with older children who know how to interact gently with small dogs. Their playful nature makes them engaging companions, but their size makes them more vulnerable to rough handling by very young children. Supervision is recommended when they are around toddlers, as accidental rough play can lead to injury. With proper socialisation and clear boundaries, Silkies can form strong, affectionate bonds with children, making them delightful family pets for school-aged kids or older households.

Q: Do Australian Silky Terriers shed a lot?
A: No, Australian Silky Terriers are considered low-shedding dogs, which is one of the reasons they are popular with people who prefer a dog with minimal shedding. However, their long, silky coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Brushing them daily helps keep their coat in good condition, ensuring they look their best and reducing the likelihood of loose hairs around the house. While they shed very little compared to other breeds, their coat maintenance can be more time-consuming due to their delicate texture and length.

Q: How long do Australian Silky Terriers live?
A: Australian Silky Terriers have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, though with excellent care, some may live longer. Their long lifespan is a testament to their overall good health. Still, regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and a proper exercise routine are essential to ensure they remain healthy throughout their lives. Like any breed, early detection of potential health issues and providing preventative care can help extend their life expectancy and maintain their quality of life.

Q: Are Australian Silky Terriers easy to train?
A: Yes, Australian Silky Terriers are intelligent and trainable, but they also have an independent, sometimes stubborn streak. This can make them challenging for first-time dog owners unfamiliar with terrier traits. They respond well to positive reinforcement, such as treats, praise, and playtime, making consistent and reward-based training the best approach. Establishing boundaries early on is important, as their independent nature can lead to naughty behaviour if left unchecked. With patience and consistency, Silkies can learn commands quickly and excel in obedience training.

Q: Can Australian Silky Terriers live in flats?
A: Australian Silky Terriers are well-suited to flat or apartment living due to their small size and adaptability. However, while they donโ€™t need a large garden, they require daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Regular walks and interactive play indoors will help keep them satisfied. They are not overly noisy dogs, but they can bark if they become bored or anxious, so providing enough attention and engagement is crucial. Their small size and manageable exercise needs to make them excellent companions for urban dwellers.

Q: Are Australian Silky Terriers good with other pets?
A: With proper socialisation, Australian Silky Terriers can get along well with other dogs, primarily if they are raised together. However, their terrier instincts may lead them to chase smaller pets, like cats or rodents, especially if unfamiliar with them. Early socialisation is vital to reducing prey drive or territorial behaviour, and introducing them to other animals slowly and under supervision is essential. Silkies can learn to coexist peacefully with other pets, but itโ€™s necessary to manage introductions carefully and ensure all animals in the household are comfortable with each other.

Q: How much grooming does an Australian Silky Terrier require?
A: The Australian Silky Terrierโ€™s long, fine coat requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangles and matting, mainly because their hair can easily pick up dirt and debris. Professional grooming every few months may be necessary to maintain the coatโ€™s shape and texture. In addition to coat care, regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and teeth brushing are essential to maintain overall health. Their coat doesnโ€™t shed much, but they require more frequent attention than short-haired breeds, making them a better fit for owners willing to commit to a regular grooming routine.

Q: Are Australian Silky Terriers suitable for first-time dog owners?
A: Australian Silky Terriers can be a good choice for first-time dog owners, provided the owner is prepared for the grooming and training requirements that come with the breed. While they are intelligent and trainable, their terrier nature can make them stubborn, so consistency and patience are key. They also need daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom, which may be a consideration for someone new to dog ownership. Their manageable size, affectionate nature, and relatively low shedding make them appealing to first-time owners, but understanding their energetic and independent traits is essential to ensure a good match.

Q: Do Australian Silky Terriers bark a lot?
A: Australian Silky Terriers can be vocal, especially if they are bored or need to alert their owners to something unusual. Their terrier instincts make them natural watchdogs, and they may bark at strangers or strange noises. However, with proper training, barking can be controlled. Teaching them when itโ€™s appropriate to bark and giving them plenty of exercise and mental stimulation can help reduce excessive barking. Like many small dogs, they can be prone to developing โ€˜small dog syndromeโ€™ if not properly trained, so establishing good habits from an early age is essential.

Q: What are common health issues in Australian Silky Terriers?
A: Australian Silky Terriers are generally healthy but prone to certain genetic health conditions, which can be mitigated through responsible breeding practices. Some common health concerns include:

Patellar Luxation is a condition in which the kneecap slips out of place, common in small breeds.

  • Legg-Calvรฉ-Perthes Disease: A hip joint issue that can cause limping and discomfort.
  • Dental Issues: Like many small breeds, Silkies are prone to dental problems due to their smaller jaw size, so regular teeth cleaning is crucial.
  • Tracheal Collapse: This condition affects the windpipe and can cause breathing difficulties, particularly in older dogs.

Regular vet check-ups, a proper diet, and keeping your Silky healthy can help prevent or manage these issues.

Q: Do Australian Silky Terriers need a lot of attention?
A: Yes, Australian Silky Terriers are affectionate and social dogs that thrive on human interaction. They donโ€™t like being left alone for long periods and can develop separation anxiety if they donโ€™t get enough attention from their owners. They are happiest when involved in family activities and love to be at the centre of attention. Owners should be prepared to provide plenty of companionship, mental stimulation, and exercise to keep their Silky happy and well-adjusted.

Q: Are Australian Silky Terriers hypoallergenic?
A: Australian silky terriers are not considered hypoallergenic, but their low-shedding coat makes them a better choice for people with mild allergies than heavy-shedding breeds. Regular grooming and brushing can help minimise the amount of dander they produce, but itโ€™s important to note that no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic. Individuals with dog allergies should spend time around Silkies to see if they react before bringing one into their home.

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