Silky Terrier: Understanding the Breed’s Health, Care, and History (2024)

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The Silky Terrier is a small toy dog breed with a silky blue and tan coat. Originating in Australia in the early 20th century, this breed is a cross between Yorkshire Terriers and Australian Terriers.

Standing at 9 to 10 inches tall and weighing around 8-10 pounds, the Silky Terrier is a loyal and affectionate companion with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. They are playful and energetic, affectionate, territorial, and protective.

Daily exercise and mental stimulation are essential for the Silky Terrier, and they are suitable for apartment living. Grooming is necessary to prevent tangles and matting, and they are hypoallergenic.

Health concerns for the Silky Terrier include cataracts, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), dental disease, patellar luxation, and Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease.

Silky Terrier Overview

Discover the delightful world of the Silky Terrier, a small toy dog breed with a long, shiny coat that gives it its name. Originating in Australia in the early 20th century, this breed was created by crossing Yorkshire Terriers** with Australian Terriers to create a dog that was both alert and affectionate. With a height of 9 to 10 inches and a weight of around 10 pounds, the Silky Terrier is a compact, energetic companion that’s perfect for those who want a small-scale adventure.

The Silky Terrier’s coat is a distinctive blue and tan color, with a fine, flat, and glossy texture that requires regular grooming to prevent tangles and matting. This breed has a lifespan of 12 to 15 years and is known for its spunky and playful personality. Silky Terriers are intelligent, affectionate, and adaptable, making them great companions for families and individuals alike.

In terms of care, the Silky Terrier requires daily exercise and mental stimulation, making it suitable for apartment living. They’re prone to barking, so early socialization is essential to prevent excessive noise. Their grooming needs are significant, with regular brushing, trimming, and bathing necessary to maintain their coat’s health and appearance.

The breed’s history is rich, with its development in Australia in the early 1900s and recognition by the American Kennel Club in 1959. The Silky Terrier has a loyal following and is known for its affectionate nature and energetic demeanor.

Physical Characteristics

You’ll notice the Silky Terrier’s distinct physical traits, from its athletic build to the long, glossy coat that comes in a variety of colors. Its wedge-shaped head and V-shaped ears contribute to a sharp, alert appearance that reflects its energetic personality.

Size and Shape

As you embark on your journey into the realm of Silky Terriers, one of the primary aspects you’ll encounter is their distinctive dimensions and form. These canines are petite, often reaching a height of 9 to 10 inches at the shoulder and weighing approximately 8-10 pounds. They’re categorized as toy dogs, a term that aptly describes their diminutive size.

Their body structure is somewhat elongated in comparison to their height, featuring chests of moderate width that extend to their elbows. Their bone structure exhibits a certain finesse, yet their thighs possess a muscular and robust quality. Their legs terminate in compact, feline-like paws, and their heads display a flat skull that slightly exceeds the length of their muzzles.

Silky Terriers sport a wedge-shaped head and erect, V-shaped ears that contribute to their alert and attentive demeanor. Their eyes are small, resembling almonds in shape, with dark hues being preferred within the breed standard. The breed’s tail is customarily docked, positioned high, and held at a twelve to two o’clock angle.

These dogs exude an air of resilience and charm, brimming with an eagerness to engage with their surroundings. They’re swift to convey their exuberant spirits with their families and serve as exceptional companions for adventures. Their diminutive stature renders them easily portable and travel-friendly, making them a sought-after choice for individuals seeking a petite yet lively companion.

When it comes to their well-being, Silky Terriers necessitate daily exercise, along with consistent training and socialization. Their grooming also demands a significant time commitment, contingent on the length at which their coat is maintained. Despite their diminutive size, they’re far from fragile and are capable of considerable activity.

Comprehending the dimensions and shape of a Silky Terrier is paramount for pet parents, as it enables them to provide appropriate care, exercise, and living arrangements for their furry companion.

Coat and Color

The Silky Terrier is a breed known for its long, straight, and silky coat, which is an essential part of its unique appearance. The breed’s coat is typically blue and tan, with the darker and richer the colors, the better. The coat is fine, flat, and glossy, with a silky feel, and it mustn’t be so long as to impede the dog’s action.

To maintain the coat’s health and appearance, regular grooming is necessary. Brushing the coat twice a week and up to daily, depending on the length, is recommended to prevent tangles and mats. Bathing and trimming the coat every four to six weeks is also necessary, along with checking the ears for wax buildup and brushing the teeth daily.

The breed’s coat is hypoallergenic, making it suitable for people with allergies. The coat color variations include blue and tan, blue, silver, and tan, gray and tan, silver and tan, or silver, black, and tan. The blue body color must be clear without tan or bronze streaking, and the tan markings mustn’t be smutty.

Grooming tips for the Silky Terrier include using a slicker brush to remove tangles, a comb to prepare the coat for trimming, and blunt-end scissors for trimming the coat. The face and tail should be trimmed for a refined appearance, and the hind end should be checked for cleanliness between grooming sessions.

Head and Ears

Shifting from the luxurious smoothness of their coats, let’s examine their heads and ears. Your Silky’s facial hair isn’t merely decorative—it’s an emblem of their allure. Those V-shaped ears, narrower at the base than a Yorkie’s, aren’t just sensory organs; they’re a grooming cue. Maintain their cleanliness to prevent ear infections, as healthy ears are contented ears!

Temperament and Personality

Silky Terriers are known for their playful energy, affectionate nature, territorial instincts, and protective nature. They’re loyal companions that make excellent watchdogs due to their attentive and protective nature. Here are four key points about the temperament and personality of Silky Terriers:

1. Playful and energetic: Silky Terriers are quick and alert, always ready for adventure and play.
2. Affectionate: They’re loving and caring towards their family members, often seeking attention and affection.
3. Territorial: Silky Terriers can be possessive of their toys and food, showing dominance in some cases.
4. Protective: They’re alert to their surroundings and can be quick to bark at strangers or perceived threats, while being quite loving with their family.

These characteristics make Silky Terriers great companions for those who want a small, energetic, and affectionate dog.

Activity Levels and Care

Silky Terriers are energetic and require daily exercise and mental stimulation. They’re suitable for apartment living but don’t like to be left alone. Their grooming routine is essential to prevent tangles and matting, and they’re hypoallergenic, making them a great companion for seniors.

Activity Level	Care Requirements
Extremely active	Daily exercise and mental stimulation
Suitable for apartment living	Grooming routine to prevent tangles and matting
Hypoallergenic	Companion for seniors

Silky Terriers are a loving and affectionate breed that enjoys adventure and is always up for a challenge. They’re oblivious to their size and are playful, making them a great companion for those who want a small-scale adventure. However, they require a fair amount of care, including regular exercise and grooming, to keep them healthy and happy.

Health Concerns

As a Silky Terrier owner, it’s imperative to be cognizant of prevalent health concerns that can impact your pet’s well-being. These include cataracts, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), dental disease, patellar luxation, and Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease.

Cataracts

Silky Terriers, like other dog breeds, can develop cataracts, which are opacities in the eye lens that prevent light from passing through to the back of the eye, causing blurred vision. Cataracts can occur at any age, but they’re more common in older dogs. The formation of cataracts can be due to genetics, diabetes mellitus, or other factors such as nutritional impairment, congenital issues, trauma, or uveitis.

The age of onset for cataracts in Silky Terriers can vary, but they’re more common in older dogs. Early detection is essential, as small cataracts may not affect vision, while larger cataracts can cause vision loss. If a cataract is detected, surgical options are available to remove the cataract and restore vision. The cost of cataract surgery for Silky Terriers typically ranges from $2,700 to $4,000, which includes the preliminary examination, ERG and ultrasound, surgery, anesthesia, operating room use, hospitalization, initial medications, and postoperative checkups.

Prevention measures include maintaining a healthy diet, regular eye examinations, and avoiding trauma to the eyes. If you suspect your Silky Terrier may have a cataract, consult a veterinary ophthalmologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Silky Terriers are prone to Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), an inherited eye disease that causes slowly progressive blindness over a period of months or years. PRA is more commonly seen in miniature and toy poodles, cocker spaniels, and Labrador retrievers, but it can affect other breeds, including Silky Terriers.

Symptoms of PRA include a gradual loss of vision, starting with night blindness and progressing to the inability to see in bright light conditions during the day. Affected dogs may also have dilated pupils and an abnormal shine called tapetal reflection through the dilated pupils.

Diagnosis of PRA typically involves an eye examination by a veterinary ophthalmologist, who may use specialized lenses or an electroretinogram (ERG) to evaluate the retina. DNA tests are also available for some breeds, including Silky Terriers, to detect the presence of PRA or carrier status.

There is no cure for PRA, and affected dogs are likely to become totally blind. However, antioxidant therapy has been suggested to potentially delay vision loss, and research into gene therapy may provide hope for the future. Affected dogs shouldn’t be bred, as breeding is the only prevention available.

Dental Disease

As a Silky Terrier owner, it’s essential to make dental care a top priority for your furry friend. Just like humans, their teeth are prone to tartar buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. Regular brushing and professional cleanings can help stave off these problems. Remember, dental care isn’t just about minty breath; it’s about safeguarding your pet’s overall well-being.

Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation, commonly known as dislocated kneecaps, is a common health concern in Silky Terriers. This condition involves the kneecap (patella) moving out of its normal position within the groove of the thigh bone (femur). The severity of patellar luxation is graded from I to IV, with higher grades indicating more severe dislocations and joint instability.

Treatment options for patellar luxation in Silky Terriers may include lifestyle modifications, rehabilitation exercises, non-surgical interventions, and surgical procedures. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in low-impact exercises, and providing orthopedic bedding and ramps can help manage the condition in milder cases. Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises can improve joint flexibility and mobility, while pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, joint supplements, and bracing or taping may be used to manage discomfort and reduce inflammation. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the condition and provide long-term relief. Surgical procedures involve repositioning and reattaching the patellar ligament to the shin bone, reshaping the groove of the femur, and tightening the joint capsule and fascia.

Early diagnosis and appropriate intervention are essential for ensuring your Silky Terrier’s comfort and well-being. Detecting the condition in its early stages could allow for less invasive treatment and prevent the development of more severe limb deformities. If your Silky Terrier exhibits symptoms such as lameness, reluctance to run or exercise, or a bow-legged or knock-kneed appearance, consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, also known as Perthes Disease, is a condition that affects the hip joint in young children. It’s characterized by the interruption of blood supply to the femoral head, leading to necrosis, resorption, and eventual re-ossification of the bone. This process can result in the formation of a misshapen femoral head, which may cause degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis) later in life.

Treatment options for Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease include both surgical intervention and nonoperative methods. Nonoperative treatment may involve keeping the joint moving to supply the cartilage with synovial fluid, casting, bracing, and physical therapy to help maintain the head in the hip socket. Surgical treatment, such as femoral varus osteotomy, innominate osteotomy, pelvic osteotomies, triple osteotomy, Chiari osteotomy, and shelf acetabuloplasty, may be recommended for noncontainable LCPD hips. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as onset age, femoral head involvement severity, and treatment method.

Recovery time and potential complications following surgical intervention vary. For example, after a femoral head and neck ostectomy (FHNO), dogs may begin to bear weight within the first 1 to 2 weeks, but post-operative physiotherapy exercises are often recommended to help strengthen the muscles. Close observation of signs and dynamic arthrography are beneficial before choosing the treatment approach, as the disease has a poor prognosis in children over 8 years old but can also benefit from advanced surgical methods.

Prevention measures for Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease aren’t well-established, as the cause of the condition is currently unknown. However, early diagnosis and prompt treatment can help minimize the impact on the child’s hip joint and overall quality of life.

Training and Behavior

Silky Terriers are renowned for their energetic and playful dispositions. However, they can also be determined when it pertains to instruction. Prompt socialization is indispensable to avert the emergence of undesirable conduct.

They’re swift to vocalize at unfamiliar individuals or perceived hazards, but they generally exhibit affection towards their kin. Their hunting instinct is potent, which may incite them to pursue diminutive creatures.

They necessitate quotidian physical exertion and cognitive stimulation, rendering them appropriate for apartment abodes but not optimal for extended periods of solitude. Positive reinforcement techniques and unwavering directives are paramount for effective training.

Early Socialization

Starting early training with your Silky Terrier puppy is like planting a tree – the best time was yesterday, the second-best time is now. Puppy socialization isn’t just about making friends; it’s the bedrock of obedience training. House training with positive reinforcement turns your tiny terror into a well-mannered roommate, without the need for a chore chart.

Barking

Silky Terriers can be prone to excessive barking, which can be a source of frustration for their owners. To prevent barking, it’s vital to find out what makes them bark and teach your Silky Terrier barking commands. Early socialization is critical in training your dog to bark appropriately. If barking becomes an issue, ask a professional dog trainer for help.

Prey Drive

Your Silky Terrier’s prey drive is an inherent part of their breed’s innate disposition. To control their hunting instincts when interacting with small animals, contemplate obedience training and positive reinforcement techniques. Always oversee their interactions and offer abundant mental stimulation through toys and activities.

Energy and Adventure

Your Silky Terrier’s zest for life turns every day into an adventure. Think of playtime ideas that channel their boundless energy—like a spirited game of fetch that doubles as a health precaution against obesity.

Socialization tactics are key; introduce them to new pals at the park, and watch them outshine other breeds with their vivacious spirit.

Always keep adventure activities safe and fun!

Adaptability to Living Conditions

As a Silky Terrier owner, you’ll find that these dogs are adaptable to various living conditions. They’re suitable for apartment life and can adjust well to city living. However, they don’t like being left alone for long periods.

To help them adapt, consider crate training and providing plenty of mental stimulation through toys and interactive activities. Remember, they’ll need daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Breed History and Origins

To understand the origins and history of the Silky Terrier, one must first explore its roots in Yorkshire and Lancashire, England, during the Victorian era. The breed’s development in Australia involved breeding Yorkshire Terriers with Australian Terriers, leading to the creation of a new breed. This new breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1955, and its name was changed to simply ‘silky terrier’ when it arrived in America.

Yorkshire and Lancashire, England

The Yorkshire and Lancashire region of England played a significant role in the origins of the Yorkshire Terrier breed. Initially, these dogs were brought down to England by Scottish weavers and were used to eliminate rodent infestations in the burgeoning mills and mines of the Industrial Revolution. Their small size and tenacity made them ideal for this purpose, as they could squeeze into tight spaces and keep the textile mills free of rats and mice.

After the Industrial Revolution, the class structure in England began to change, and the Victorian era brought about a shift in the role of dogs. As the upper class sought companionship and status symbols, Yorkshire Terriers became popular lap dogs, favored for their elegance and the status they conferred. Breeders favored smaller pups for their new roles within the household, leading to the metamorphosis from working dogs to Lap dogs.

The Victorian era was marked by a focus on fashion and social hierarchy, which further contributed to the popularity of Yorkshire Terriers. These dogs were seen as a symbol of wealth and status, and their diminutive size and long, silky coat made them a desirable companion for the upper class. The breed’s popularity soared during this time, with Huddersfield Ben, born in 1865, being a significant influence on the breed’s development and characteristics.

Victorian Era

During the Victorian era, Yorkshire Terriers gained immense popularity in England and were commonly kept as lap dogs by the upper class. Breeders preferred smaller Yorkies for their novel roles within households, leading to a change from working dogs to lap dogs.

This shift in status signified that Yorkies weren’t exclusively popular as pets but also as show dogs, with the first Yorkie being documented by the American Kennel Club in 1885.

The breed’s reputation as a devoted and affectionate companion made it a favorite among Victorian pet enthusiasts, who admired its diminutive size and refined appearance.

Development in Australia

The Australian Silky Terrier‘s story began to unfold in the land down under. This breed is a blend of the Yorkshire Terrier and the Australian Terrier, and was developed in Australia around a century and a half ago.

In 1959, the breed’s name was changed from the ‘Sydney Silky‘ to the ‘Australian Silky Terrier’, reflecting its national identity. Despite the name change, the breed’s origins remain a mix of Yorkshire Terrier and Australian Terrier lineage.

Recognition by the American Kennel Club

The Silky Terrier gained recognition by the American Kennel Club in 1955, which markedly enhanced the breed’s popularity in the United States. This acknowledgment had a deep impact on the breed’s development, as it allowed for a more organized breeding program that accentuated the breed’s distinctive characteristics. The Australian influence and genetic heritage were further highlighted, resulting in a dedicated following among dog enthusiasts.

• AKC recognition
• Boosted breed popularity
• Impact on breed development
• Australian influence
• Genetic heritage

Changes in Breed Name

The Silky Terrier’s name has undergone a few changes throughout its history. Initially known as the Sydney Silky Terrier, the breed was later renamed the Australian Silky Terrier in 1959 when a committee of Kennel Club representatives from New South Wales and Victoria agreed on a national standard. This name change reflected the breed’s origins in Australia and its recognition by the Australian National Kennel Council.

When the breed was introduced to the American Kennel Club in 1959, it was again renamed, this time simply as the Silky Terrier. This change in name was likely to differentiate it from other breeds with similar names, such as the Yorkshire Terrier, and to emphasize its unique characteristics and evolution from Australian origins.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)