Little Pawz -- Silky Terrier -- Small Dogs -- Small Dog Breed Information -- Toy Dogs -- Miniature Dogs -- Dog Breeds

The Silky Terrier is distinguishable from the Yorkshire Terrier by its larger ears, more prominent muzzle, and longer back. In addition, it carries its tail higher and has hair of a slightly different colour and length.

The Silky Terrier is keenly alert, intelligent, lively, and robust. It is very friendly and affectionate with its owner and family.

Size
Height: not more than 9 inches (23 cm) at the withers
Weight: 7 – 10 lbs. (3.5 – 4.5 kg)

Coat and Colour
Coat flat, in texture fine, glossy, silky; on matured specimens the desired length of coat from behind the ears to the set on of the tail is from 5 – 6 inches (13 – 15 cm). On the top of the head the hair is so profuse as to form a topknot, but long hair on face and ears is objectionable. Legs from knee and hock joints to feet should be free from long hair. The hair is parted on the head and down over the back to the root of the tail. Colour blue and tan. The blue may be silver blue, pigeon blue or slate blue, the tan deep and rich. The blue extends from the base of the skull to the tip of the tail, down the forelegs to the pasterns and down the thighs to the hocks. On the tail the blue should be very dark. Tan appears on muzzle and cheeks, around the base of the ears, below the pasterns and hocks, and around the vent. There is a tan spot over each eye. The topknot should be silver or fawn.

Exercise
The Silky Terrier is an ideal apartment dog provided it gets proper exercise outdoors. It is very easy to train.

Grooming
Daily brushing with a pure bristle brush. Bathe once a month.

Feeding
Recommended would be 1/2 – 1 can (13.3 oz 376 g size) name-brand dog food, with a biscuit, or 1 1/2 cups dry dog food. Always provide an ample supply of fresh water for your Silky Terrier.

Origin and History
The Silky Terrier's forebears were taken along to Australia by English immigrants, where the little terriers were meant to hunt mice and other small animals. On the continent of Australia, they gave rise to two breeds: the wire-haired Australian Terrier and the Silky Terrier.