The Australian Silky Terrier, often simply called the Silky Terrier or “Silky,” is a small yet confident toy breed with the heart of a terrier and the elegance of a show dog. With its beautiful flowing coat, alert expression, and spirited energy, this breed combines charm and toughness in equal measure. Don’t be fooled by its glamorous appearance — the Silky is as bold and adventurous as any larger breed, with a deep love for its family and a curious nature that keeps life interesting.
Origins and History
Despite its name, the Australian Silky Terrier has both Australian and English roots. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, breeders in Sydney and other parts of Australia crossed Yorkshire Terriers, brought from England, with native Australian Terriers. The goal was to create a dog that retained the long, silky coat of the Yorkie but had the sturdier build and spunky personality of the Aussie Terrier.
The breed was initially known by different names depending on where you were in Australia, but it was standardized in the 1930s and later officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1959.
Physical Appearance
Silky Terriers are small dogs, typically weighing between 8 and 10 pounds and standing about 9 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder. They are compact and fine-boned, yet they have a strong and confident stance.
The breed’s most distinguishing feature is its straight, glossy, and silky coat. It flows down the body like a fine curtain and requires regular grooming to stay in top shape. The coat is usually steel blue and tan — a coloration inherited from its Yorkshire Terrier ancestors.
Silkies have a wedge-shaped head with dark, intelligent eyes and small, erect ears that give them an alert and perky appearance. Their tails are typically carried high, further emphasizing their bold and lively personality.
Temperament and Personality
The Australian Silky Terrier is a true terrier in spirit — alert, brave, curious, and always ready for action. While they may be small in size, their personality is anything but.
These dogs are known for being:
- Lively and energetic – They love to play, explore, and chase, often showing more enthusiasm than dogs twice their size.
- Affectionate and loyal – Silkies form strong bonds with their families and love to be involved in all activities.
- Confident and bold – They don’t back down easily and often act like they’re much bigger than they actually are.
- Alert and vocal – Naturally protective, they make excellent watchdogs and will always let you know when something’s up.
Because of their terrier instincts, they can sometimes be feisty or even scrappy with other dogs, especially if not properly socialized.
Living with a Silky
Australian Silky Terriers are adaptable and can thrive in various living situations, from apartments to houses with large yards. However, they do best in homes where they get plenty of attention, playtime, and mental stimulation.
These dogs are not couch potatoes — they need daily walks, interactive play, and toys to keep them mentally engaged. Without enough activity, they can become bored and develop problem behaviors like excessive barking or chewing.
Silkies are very people-oriented and don’t like being left alone for long periods. They’re happiest when they can be close to their humans and involved in daily routines.
Training and Socialization
Thanks to their intelligence and eagerness to please, Silky Terriers are generally easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement and enjoy learning new tricks or commands. That said, they can sometimes be a bit stubborn — a common trait in terrier breeds.
Early socialization is important to help them feel comfortable around other dogs, people, and environments. Proper training from a young age can also curb their natural tendency to bark excessively or chase smaller animals like squirrels or birds.
Grooming Needs
The Silky’s coat may be beautiful, but it requires regular maintenance to stay healthy and tangle-free. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent mats and tangles, especially around the ears, legs, and belly.
They don’t have an undercoat, which means less shedding than some other breeds, but their coat does grow continuously — so regular trims and occasional professional grooming are necessary.
Regular dental care, nail trimming, and ear cleaning should also be part of their grooming routine to keep them looking and feeling their best.
Health and Lifespan
Australian Silky Terriers are generally healthy dogs and have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Some health issues to be aware of include:
- Patellar luxation (dislocated kneecap)
- Tracheal collapse
- Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
- Dental problems, common in small breeds
A healthy diet, regular vet check-ups, and daily exercise can help ensure a long and happy life.
Final Thoughts
The Australian Silky Terrier may be small, but its heart, courage, and personality are anything but. With the playful spirit of a terrier and the elegance of a toy breed, the Silky is the perfect companion for those who want a loyal, intelligent, and entertaining little dog.
Whether you live in a bustling city apartment or a quiet suburban home, this breed will bring joy, sass, and a whole lot of sparkle into your life.
