Australian Silky Terrier

19 October 2023

Considering bringing home a new family member? The gorgeous Australian Silky Terrier can be a great choice!

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Let’s talk about… Australian Silky Terriers: what are they?

The Australian Silky Terrier, also known as the Silky Terrier, is a small and elegant toy breed that originated in Australia.
They were originally called "Sydney Silky Terriers" due to their popularity in the city of Sydney, Australia.
Despite its name, it is not a true terrier but is often classified as one.
These delightful dogs were originally bred as companion pets and were developed by crossing Yorkshire Terriers with Australian Terriers.
They have a distinct silky coat that sets them apart and gives them their name.
The average height of Australian Silky Terriers is about 23 cm for males and females.
They typically weigh between 3.5 and 4.5 kg.
They can live for approximately 12 to 15 years.

Australian Silky Terrier Exercise needs 2/5; Grooming ease 2/5; Trainability 3/5

What is the temperament of Australian Silky Terriers like?

Australian Silky Terriers are known for their lively and friendly temperament.
They are intelligent, alert, and make loving companions.
Despite their small size, they possess a confident and courageous nature.
They tend to be loyal to their families and can form strong bonds with their owners.
While they are generally good with children and other pets if properly socialised, supervision and gradual introductions are still important.
Early socialisation and training are essential to help them develop good manners and adapt well to various situations.

How much exercise do Australian Silky Terriers need?

Australian Silky Terriers are moderately active dogs that require about 30 to 45 minutes of exercise per day.
They enjoy daily walks, playtime, and interactive activities that stimulate their minds. Avoid excessive jumping or activities that may strain their joints.
For Australian Silky Terrier puppies, exercise should be limited to shorter sessions of playtime to avoid putting too much stress on their developing bodies.
As a general guideline, a few 5 to 10-minute play sessions throughout the day are sufficient for young puppies. As they grow older and their joints strengthen, gradually increase their exercise duration and intensity.
They can usually manage full adult levels of exercise at around 12 months old, but your vet can advise on your individual pooch.

Do Australian Silky Terriers need a lot of grooming?

Australian Silky Terriers have a long, fine, and silky coat that requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition.
Daily brushing is recommended to prevent matting and tangling.
Pay special attention to the areas behind the ears, under the armpits, and around the tail, as these are prone to knotting.
Bathe as required or advised to keep their coat clean and healthy.
A professional groomer can advise on grooming and trimming your Australian Silky Terrier.

Are Australian Silky Terriers easy to train?

Australian Silky Terriers are intelligent dogs and can be trained with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement methods.
However, they can also have a stubborn streak, so it's important to make training sessions interesting and rewarding.
Start training from an early age and focus on basic commands and socialisation.
Obedience training and early exposure to various environments, people, and other animals will help them become well-rounded and well-behaved companions.
Remember to keep training sessions short, fun, and engaging to maintain their interest.

What do Australian Silky Terriers eat?

For Australian Silky Terrier puppies, a balanced and nutritious diet designed for their growth and development is essential.
Feed them 3-4 times daily until they are 6 months old, then reduce it to twice daily, with a high-quality, small breed puppy food, recommended by your veterinarian until they reach around 12 months of age.
Once they reach adulthood, an adult dog food formulated for small breeds is generally suitable to be fed twice daily.

Are Australian Silky Terriers healthy?

Australian Silky Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they may be prone to certain health conditions. Some potential concerns to be aware of include:

Bones and Joints

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease: a hip condition that affects the blood supply to the head of the femur bone, leading to breakdown of the bone, pain and lameness.
Luxating patella - this is when a dog’s kneecap moves out of where it should normally be

Dental

Periodontal Disease - a buildup of plaque and tartar on a dog’s teeth leading to inflammation, infection and tooth loss

Hormonal

Cushing’s Disease (hyperadrenocorticism) - when the adrenal gland produces too steroid hormone

Respiratory

Tracheal Collapse - when a dog’s windpipe collapses due to the weakening of cartilage leading to a narrowing or closing off of their airway, often first noted as a honking cough

This list is not exhaustive, and if you have any concerns about the health of your Australian Silky Terrier or want to discuss whether this breed is suitable for you, consult with your veterinarian.

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Information on this page should never replace advice given by your veterinarian. Potential health issues presented are given as a guide only and are not meant to be comprehensive. If you have any concerns about your dog's health, contact your local vet.