Silky Terrier Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Silky Terrier is a spirited toy dog with a long, silky coat, a terrier's courage and a good dose of cheekiness. It was developed in Australia and combines the look of a toy with the energy of a working ratter.

Origins and appearance

The breed arose in Sydney and Melbourne in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, from crosses between the Australian Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier. Silkies are longer than they are tall, with a wedge-shaped head, small erect ears and a flat, straight, glossy coat in blue and tan. The coat is parted down the back and falls to the sides, though many pet owners choose a shorter clip.

Temperament

Silkies are confident, curious and playful. They enjoy being part of family life, but they are terriers at heart: they chase, dig and bark. They may challenge larger dogs and chase small animals. With firm, positive guidance and socialization, they are loyal, friendly companions. They are often more independent than other toys.

Exercise

Plan around forty-five minutes of daily activity. They enjoy walks, fetch and games of chase. They benefit from agility and trick training, and thrive when given a job. A bored Silky digs and barks. Use a leash outdoors, since prey drive can override recall. See recall training guide.

Training

The breed is intelligent and sometimes stubborn. Use short, lively sessions with rewards. House training may take time. Early socialization prevents bossiness. Teach quiet and leave-it cues to manage barking and chasing.

Coat and grooming

The silky coat needs brushing every other day, with attention to the legs and behind the ears. Bathe every two to four weeks. See silky coat dog grooming guide. Many owners choose a short clip for easier care. Trim around the eyes and paws, clean ears and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Frequently discussed topics include:

• Luxating patella. See luxating patella in dogs
• Diabetes. See dog diabetes
• Collapsing trachea. See collapsing trachea in dogs
• Dental disease. See dental disease in dogs
• Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
• Epilepsy and allergies

Living with a Silky Terrier

They adapt to apartments but need activity and mental stimulation. Provide a fenced yard and keep an eye on small pets. They like attention and often enjoy being near the action.

A day with a Silky

Mornings might begin with a brisk walk and a training game. A midday nap, afternoon play and an evening outing fill the rest. Keep puzzle toys handy, and rotate them. Daily brushing fits in easily after dinner.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include underexercising, neglecting grooming and allowing barking to become habit. Others let the dog off leash too soon. Do not rely on the small size to excuse bad manners.

Questions to ask a breeder or rescue

Ask about patella checks, family history of diabetes and dental health. Ask how puppies are socialized and whether the breeder provides support after purchase.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Silky Terrier suits owners who want a lively, trainable small dog and enjoy grooming. It may not suit someone wanting a quiet lap dog. For a similar-size toy with a different coat, see the Yorkshire Terrier.

Puppies and the first year

Silky puppies are bouncy and bold. Start socialization early with people, other dogs and everyday noises, and handle the coat and paws daily. Provide plenty of chew toys and a safe space for digging. Expect to spend the first months on house training, leash manners and polite greetings. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for grooming tools or regular trims, dental care and routine vet visits. Diabetes risk makes weight control important in middle age. See dog vet cost guide.

The takeaway

Silky Terriers are spirited, silky and smart, and they need exercise, training and grooming.