Silky Terriers are known as toy dogs which are crossbreed of the Australian Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier. As the name indicates, it has a shiny long coat and low fur shedding. The cute look of a Silky Terrier is because of its appearance, mainly straight hanging hair.
The Silky Terrier is a watchful and truly smart dog. It has a good sense to perceive any sort of threats but is very friendly and loving towards other pets. A Silky Terrier will fit well into an active family but is unsuitable for families with younger children as they are excessively local and intrusive around toddlers.
Silky Terrier History
In the 1800s, the Yorkshire Terrier was brought to Australia to breed with the Australian Terrier to get a heavier coat and fur in the next generation. In 1906, the process was successful, and the Silky Terrier came into existence. At that time, a silky terrier was known for being a distinctive breed. In 1958, this breed was registered in the American Kennel Club.
The ancestors of the Silky Terrier are tough and known for vermin catching in Europe and Australia. This cute dog was introduced in the United States after World War 2 when American soldiers returned. In 1955, a club was formed by the name Sidney Silky Terrier Club. Since then, the Silky Terrier has been a famous dog all around the globe.
Silky Terrier Characteristics
A Silky Terrier is a lively spirited animal and a friendly bud one could have. The energy of a Silky Terrier is always high, and it is always ready for fun. Walking, running, fetching games are some of the fun activities that Silky Terriers can’t resist. Alertness and intelligence are the two main traits a Silky terrier contains. You will always find your Silky Terrier responsive, whether sleepy or dull. At the time, this breed could be bossy, but firm training can always be helpful.
How Big do Silky Terriers Get?
The average height of a Silky Terrier is about nine to ten inches (23 to 25 cm). The female Silky Terriers are smaller in size compared to the male ones. The average weight of this breed is eight to eleven pounds (4 to 5 kg).
How Long Does A Silky Terrier Live?
The average life expectancy of a Silky Terrier is of twelve to fifteen years. However, you can always increase the lifespan of your pup by taking good care. Good nutrition, grooming on a daily basis, regular exercise and a loving environment are all the factors that contribute to making your pets life better and longer.
How Much Does A Silky Terrier Cost?
Adopting a Silky Terrier would be cheaper as compared to buying one. The adaptation fee is around $300 while buying from breeders will cost you around $800 to $3,000. The Silky Terrier is a common dog breed, and you won’t have to face the hassle in finding one. Although having a pet costs you monthly expenses such as dog food, dog treats and dog bed.
Silky Terrier Temperament/ Personality
The Silky Terrier is a clever and mischievous dog breed. It has a higher tendency to bark loudly. A Silky Terrier can become aggressive and bold at times. It is also seen that it becomes scrappy towards other dogs and pets. Along with being energetic and active, a Silky Terrier loves to have family time with its owner.
Never leave your Silky Terrier alone for a longer time as it can develop separation anxiety and can become destructive. As for the discovered personalities of Silky terriers, they are not apartment dogs but require larger living space. They have the curious nature to dig holes and loves to chase things.
Caring for A Silky Terrier
Like an infant, all your pet wants from you is care and affection. A Silky Terrier is a loving dog and expects the same from its owner. The thick hairy coat of a Silky Terrier requires proper care. Don’t trap your Silky Terrier to indoor activities as it requires socializing and physical activities. Taking on a morning walk, interaction with other animals and fun activities will keep your Silky Terrier happy and healthy.
Silky Terrier Nutrition
The most important thing is to keep your Silky Terrie hydrated. Feed a high-quality diet with adequate nutrition. As it is a small dog, feed optimal food for small dogs. Offer meal twice times in a day and measured form. Dog treats should be given to enhance the diet further. Make sure your Silky Terrier is not overeating, which can move towards obesity.
How to Groom A Silky Terrier?
Maintaining its long double, coated hair is necessary and difficult. It requires daily brushing and weekly washing so that no dust is trapped in the fur. Brush your Silky Terrier teeth once a week using toothbrushes for dogs and toothpaste for dogs. Lighter cleaning around the ears, foot, nail and eyes is necessary. If you are busy most of the time, take your Silky Terrier to weekly or monthly grooming sessions. Ensure you monitor every unusual signal your Silky Terrier shows, such as bad odor or redness.
Silky Terrier Activity Levels
Keeping a Silky Terrier is not an easy task, as it is more than just being a lap dog. The Silly Terrier is an active and energetic dog breed that requires exercise on a daily basis. Daily exercise, training, running or walking will always benefit a Silky terrier. Catching and chasing dog games is what you need to play with your Silky Terrier.
Silky Terrier Health
The Silky Terrier is a healthy dog breed, but some illness runs into their genes. The health issues such as patellar luxation and eye infections can be commonly found in your Silky Terrier. Developing genetic health problems in common in this breed. Retinal atrophy, luxating patellae (knee cap displacement), and Legg Calve Perthes (leg bones don’t get enough blood supply) are some of the diseases a Silky Terrier is prone to. Make sure you get your Silky Terrier tested for hip, knee, blood, urine, and skeletal every year.
Breeds Similar to Silky Terriers
- Silkshire Terrier
- Chizer
- Aussie Silk Terrier
- Papillon
- Keeshond
- Briquet Griffon Vendeen
Best Dog Food for Silky Terriers
The best dog food for Silky Terrier is Nutro Natural Choice Small Breed Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food. This creation of Nutro contains brown rice and chicken as the main ingredients in the recipe. It ensures delicious taste and a good energy level for the healthy lifestyle of your pal. It also features a good amount of protein for healthier muscles.
- Equipped with chondroitin and glucosamine for superior joints health.
- Made free from soy, wheat, corn, GMO ingredients, and by-product meals.
- Antioxidants boost digestive health.
Best Puppy Food for Silky Terriers
The best puppy food for Silky Terrier is Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Paws Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food. This Hill’s Science’s creation is formulated with wholesome ingredients that include rice, chicken meal, and barley as key ingredients.
- Includes DHA to improve eye health and develop the brain.
- Enhances immune system with vitamin C, vitamin E, and antioxidants.
- Free of artificial ingredients such as colors, preservatives, and flavors.
Best Dog Crate for Silky Terriers
The best dog crate for Silky Terrier is Paws & Pals Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate, 20 inches. This dog crate has a highly convenient one-door structure. It is made of high-quality wires for superior security.
- Supports resistance against corrosion, fade, and rust.
- Easy cleaning with ABS plastic tray.
- Offers fold and store system through collapsible design.
Best Dog Bed for Silky Terriers
The best dog bed for Silky Terrier is Best Friends by Sheri Calming Lux Fur Donut Cuddler Bolster Cat & Dog Bed. This dog bed features a donut-like shape that makes it extremely cozy and provides a relaxing sleep to your pal.
- Prevents an accident with its dirt and water-resistant bottom.
- Made without any toxic materials.
- Safe on dryer and machine.
Best Dog Harness for Silky Terriers
The best dog harness for Silky Terrier is Best Pet Supplies Voyager All Season Mesh Dog Harness, Turquoise, Small. This harness has a breathable mesh fabric that insulates in cool weather and stays cool in summers.
- Contains weight-distributing straps.
- Easy operation with walk-in design.
- Includes D ring for leash attachment.
Recommended Reading:
- How Much Does A Silky Terrier Cost?
- Best Dog Food
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