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Australian Silky Terrier
Thinking of buying or adopting an Australian Silky Terrier?
Introduction
The Australian silky terrier may be a small dog, but it is not lacking in energy and feistiness. Also called silky pointing terrier, this toy dog is a cross between the Australian terrier and the silky terrier. This bold canine is inquisitive and tenacious, yet affectionate, loyal, and playful.
Being one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world, the Australian silky terrier is highly trainable. More refined than the traditional ratting terriers, the Australian silky terrier can adapt well to different living situations.
Highly energetic and extremely charming, the Australian silky terrier is a devoted dog that is alert and responsive, which makes for a great companion and watchdog. The long-haired coat requires regular brushing to keep it tangle-free.
History
The Australian silky terrier is believed to have been bred in 1890s in Australia. The local Australian terriers and imported Yorkshire terriers were crossed and produce three different results. The two looked like each of their parents, whilst the third had a size and hair length that was between the two. The Australian terriers we see today were a result of interbreeding.
It was in 1906 that the breed standard guidelines were created in Sydney. However, a different set of standards was made in Victoria in 1909. The two only met halfway in 1926 to create a new breed standard. The pooch had numerous names; it was initially called the Sydney silky terrier and then changed to Australian silky terrier in 1955. It has been Kennel Club-registered since 1959. It is currently called silky terrier in the US.
Appearance and Grooming
The silky weighs 8–10 pound and stands 23–26 centimetres at the withers. It has a typical terrier head with a flat skull and a black nose. It has small, oval eyes and V-shaped prick ears.
It is known for its straight, fine, sleek, and silky coat that hardly sheds. It is parted down the back and is 13–15 centimetres long. The standard colour is a combination of rich and well-defined blue and tan. A bit of black colouring is allowable in puppies. The coat may seem difficult to maintain, but on the contrary, it only requires daily brushing to remove mats. Plus, it only needs a few baths in a month. Taking it to a professional groomer once a month will also help.
Aside from caring for your dog’s coat, make sure to regularly trim the nails, clean the ears, and check for ticks or fleas. An overlooked aspect of dog ownership is good oral hygiene. Take care of your dog’s teeth and gums to prevent diseases and bad breath by brushing its teeth at least twice or three times a week. Appropriate chew bones/toys, which your pet will enjoy, can help build strong teeth as well as help remove plaque and dirt.
Temperament and Intelligence
The silky is independent, spirited, friendly, intelligent, and confident. As a true terrier, the breed is a hunter inclined to dig and chase small animals. It can be a good watchdog as it barks at strangers and does not back down despite its small stature. It is devoted to its human pack and thrives in their presence. It can be a wonderful family pet, but it is best with older children that can handle dogs. It may not be tolerant of younger kids who have a tendency to be hyperactive.
The silky is easy to train as it is an eager student but can make up its own rules. This usually happens when the handler is soft or inconsistent. Positive reinforcement and fun lessons would make training easier.
Each breed may have a certain predisposition in terms of temperament and intelligence. However, like humans, each dog is unique. A lot of factors play a role in developing its personality and abilities. Genetics is a factor, but the environments where the puppy is born and then later on raised have a huge influence.
Nutrition and Feeding
A typical serving for this small dog is 1/2–3/4 cup of excellent-quality dry dog food per day. Measure its food and limit to two meals a day to ensure a trim body size. Like in every breed, the amount of food depends on its age, size, build, activity level, and metabolism.
Choosing the type of food that you feed your dog is entirely up to you. Choose high-quality dog food, whether dry or wet, that is specifically formulated to meet the needs of dogs. Check the labels and avoid buying cheap brands that contain chemicals and preservatives.
If you choose to prepare or cook your dog’s food, make sure you do your research because even though you use fresh ingredients, you may still not provide the right amount of vitamins and minerals. Avoid giving table scraps and stick to your dog’s specific food. There are certain human foods forbidden and deadly to dogs such as chocolate, grapes, avocado, chicken bones, fatty and salty foods, and others. Better safe than sorry!
Consult a trusted veterinarian before giving your dog any supplements as some may cause harm than good. Some vets do not encourage supplements when you are feeding high-quality dog food that contains all the nutrients that your canine needs.
Always make sure that your dog has access to fresh clean water and avoid giving it sweet human drinks like juice, soft drinks, tea, or coffee.
Health and Exercise
The average lifespan of a silky is eleven to fourteen years. It is generally healthy, but it is predisposed to the following conditions:
- Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
- Patellar luxation
- Diabetes mellitus
- Epilepsy
- Tracheal collapse
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Diabetes
It may be considered a toy dog, but the silky requires actual exercise and training. Daily walks, romping and playing fetch in the yard, or going to a dog park are perfect activities. Always keep it on a lead outside as it can be difficult to find when it runs and wanders. Aside from physical activities, mental stimulation will also prevent this dog from being bored and destructive.
Cost of Ownership
For a well-bred Australian silky terrier puppy, expect to spend £300–£450. Insurance may cost about £20 (basic) to £43 (lifetime) each month. The food expenses may reach about £30–£40 monthly. For vaccinations, boosters, annual checks, and other veterinary costs, pet care bills may add up to more than £800 annually.
On average, a silky owner will spend about £60–£90 per month. The insurance costs can also impact cost estimates. For its lifetime (11–14 years), the costs can be as low as £7,920 to as high as £15,120 overall. This range does not include the expenditures incurred in buying a pup.
Australian Silky Terrier Breed Highlights
- The Australian silky terrier is a great family pet as it is affectionate, people-loving, loyal, and playful.
- It is a good first-dog choice provided its needs are met.
- This pooch’s long-haired coat may look challenging to maintain, but it only requires daily grooming to prevent matting.
- The silky is an intelligent dog and is highly trainable.
- Due to its a high prey drive, it may not back down from a challenge even from bigger dogs.
- It needs daily exercise and mental stimulation to balance its energies.
Are you sure the Australian Silky Terrier is the best breed for you? Take the Pet Breed Selector Quiz to find your perfect breed match.
Dog Breed Selector QuizIf you think that an active dog like the Australian silky terrier isn’t for you, take the Pet Finder to know which breeds suit you best.
Disclaimer:
The information, including measurements, prices and other estimates, on this page is provided for general reference purposes only.
The information, including measurements, prices and other estimates, on this page is provided for general reference purposes only.