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Silky Terrier

Australia

Small terrier with a silky, flowing coat. Silky Terriers are alert, intelligent, and make excellent companions.

Alert
Intelligent
Energetic
Loyal
small
11-14 years
Weight

8-10 lbs

Height

9-10 inches

Energy
Coat

long

History & Origin

Developed in Australia by crossing Yorkshire Terriers with Australian Terriers. They're also called Sydney Silky Terriers.

Health Considerations

  • Patellar Luxation
  • Eye Problems
  • Tracheal Collapse

Grooming

High maintenance. Daily brushing and regular professional grooming.

Exercise Needs

High energy requiring daily walks and playtime.

Training

Intelligent and trainable. Respond well to positive reinforcement.

🐶 Silky Terrier Temperament

The Silky Terrier is known for its alert, intelligent, energetic, loyal nature. These dogs are small terrier with a silky, flowing coat, making them ideal companions. Their temperament makes them active and engaging companions.

Alert
Intelligent
Energetic
Loyal

🐶 Silky Terrier Exercise Needs

High energy requiring daily walks and playtime.

🐶 Silky Terrier Health Issues

Like many dog breeds, Silky Terriers are prone to certain health conditions. Common health issues include Patellar Luxation, Eye Problems, Tracheal Collapse. Regular veterinary checkups, proper nutrition, and preventive care are essential to maintain your Silky Terrier's health and wellbeing throughout their 11-14 years.

  • Patellar Luxation
  • Eye Problems
  • Tracheal Collapse

🐶 Silky Terrier Lifespan & Aging

The Silky Terrier typically lives for 11-14 years. As they age, they will require adjusted care and attention. Senior Silky Terriers benefit from regular health screenings, modified exercise routines, and age-appropriate nutrition to maintain quality of life in their golden years.

🐶 Silky Terrier Grooming Needs

High maintenance. Daily brushing and regular professional grooming.

🐶 Silky Terrier Good for Kids?

The Silky Terrier may be suitable for families with older children who understand how to interact with dogs respectfully. Their alert and intelligent temperament means they have high energy levels that require experienced handling. Always supervise interactions between dogs and children, regardless of breed.

🐶 Silky Terrier Good for Apartments?

The Silky Terrier has high energy needs and typically requires more space than apartments provide. They require extensive daily exercise, making them better suited for homes with yards or access to large outdoor spaces. However, with dedicated owners who can provide multiple hours of exercise daily, some Silky Terriers can adapt to apartment living.

🐶 Silky Terrier Pros & Cons

Pros

  • High energy - great for active owners
  • Compact size - easy to manage

Cons

  • Requires extensive daily exercise
  • High grooming maintenance required
  • Prone to several health conditions - requires regular vet care

🐶 Silky Terrier Food Requirements

The Silky Terrier should be fed high-quality dog food appropriate for their small size and active lifestyle. Typically, small breeds require 1-1.5 cups of dry food per day, divided into two to three meals. Consider your dog's age, activity level, metabolism, and any health conditions when determining the exact amount. Always provide fresh water and consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations.

🐶 Silky Terrier Hypoallergenic?

The Silky Terrier is not considered hypoallergenic as they have a long coat that sheds regularly. They produce dander and shed seasonally, which can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. If you have allergies, consider spending time with a Silky Terrier before committing to ensure compatibility.

Fun Facts

  • 1They're also called Sydney Silky Terriers
  • 2They're a cross between Yorkshire and Australian Terriers
  • 3They're excellent watchdogs

Frequently Asked Questions

How much exercise does a Silky Terrier need?

High energy requiring daily walks and playtime.

What is the grooming requirement for a Silky Terrier?

High maintenance. Daily brushing and regular professional grooming.

Is the Silky Terrier good with families?

The Silky Terrier may be suitable for families depending on their temperament traits of Alert, Intelligent, Energetic. Proper socialization and training are important.

What are the main health concerns for Silky Terriers?

Common health concerns for Silky Terriers include Patellar Luxation, Eye Problems, Tracheal Collapse. Regular veterinary checkups and proper care can help prevent or manage these conditions.

How long does a Silky Terrier typically live?

The average lifespan of a Silky Terrier is 11-14 years. With proper care, nutrition, and regular exercise, many Silky Terriers can live long, healthy lives.