| Breed Description
- Australian Silky Terrier |
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| Kennel Club Group |
Toy |
|
|
| General Size |
Small |
Exercise requirements |
Low |
| Adult Height |
8" - 9" (20 - 23 cms) |
Suitability for Children |
Medium |
| Adult Weight |
8 - 10 lb (4 - 5 kgs) |
Compatibility other pets |
Low |
| Average Lifespan |
12 - 15 years |
Grooming Requirements |
High |
|
 |
| A fine boned, lightly built, low set Terrier slightly longer than it is tall and with a level back and small cat like feet. The Australian Silky Terrier's dominant feature is it's long fine silky coat which is around 5 - 6 inches long and should stop just above the ground. There is no undercoat and colouring is blue and fire red or blue with tan markings. |
| The Silky Terrier was developed in Australia in the 1800's from a combination of other terrier breeds including the Yorkshire Terrier, Skye Terrier, Cairn Terrier and Australian Terrier. The breed has always been primarily a companion animal but with it's terrier heritage it is more than capable of catching and killing rats and other rodents. |
| The Australian Silky Terrier is a lively, intelligent dog and should not be considered a docile lap dog. They are full of energy, keen and demanding and enthusiastic diggers. If they are to share the household with young children and existing pets they must be socialised carefully as they have a tendency to be snappy if roughly handled by children and by nature will chase other small animals. If sharing a household with rodent pets care should be taken to keep them separate for obvious reasons. Training should be easy as they are by nature keen to learn. |
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| They have surprising stamina for a dog of their size and will exercise or play for long periods. However, extensive exercise is not a requirement and they will adapt to a family routine and can do well in a flat without a garden given one or two walks per day. Grooming should not be underestimated, their coat is very fine and can be easily matted or knotted, up to 15 minutes per day of brushing and grooming should be expected with regular baths to keep the coat in top condition. Trimming may also be required on an irregular basis. |
| Potential
Health Problems |
| Generally a robust and healthy breed they have a genetic disposition towards problems with the spine, knees and elbows. Epilepsy and diabetes are also more common than in most other breeds. |
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