Silky Terrier — Breed Profile
"Spirited, confident, affectionate, curious, bold"
Big personality, tiny package
At a Glance
Breed Traits
Best For
Active apartment dwellers, families with older children, experienced small-dog owners, those seeking a spirited companion with terrier temperament in a toy-sized package
Not Ideal For
Homes with small pets (high prey drive), sedentary owners, people with limited grooming time, those seeking a calm lap dog, families with very young children due to fragility
Health Considerations
Patellar luxation, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, allergies, diabetes
Estimated annual vet cost: $600-$1,200
Breed History
Developed in Australia in the late 1800s by crossing Yorkshire Terriers with Australian Terriers and other small breeds. Bred to catch rats and small game in Sydney. Recognized as a distinct breed in Australia before gaining AKC recognition. Called Silky Terrier in North America and Australian Silky Terrier internationally.
Fun Facts
- Larger than their Yorkshire Terrier cousins despite both originating from similar stock
- Despite their small size, they retain strong terrier instincts and hunting drive
- Their silky coat requires regular brushing but doesn't shed excessively despite appearances
- Native to Sydney, Australia, making them one of few major breeds developed in the Southern Hemisphere
- Energetic enough to excel in dog sports despite their toy classification
Famous Silky Terriers
Unknown notable individual dogs; breed popularized in Australian media
Silky Terrier products coming soon.
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