History

Developed in the nineteenth century, the Australian Silky Terrier is one toy breed regarded as truly Australian. Early examples of the breed were simply known as rough or broken-coated terriers and were crosses of various larger British terrier breeds, of which some are no longer recognised. Further crossings to Dandie Dinmont and Skye Terriers and later to the Yorkshire Terrier contributed to the silky coat and small size we know today. Initially the breed was known as the 'Sydney Silky' due to the prominence of the breed in Sydney. But Victorian and Tasmanian breeders also laid claim as the originators of the breed, so the official name, Australian Silky Terrier, was eventually adopted in 1956.

Appearance

Australian Silkies are compact and moderately low set to the ground. They have a keen and alert appearance, further conveyed by their upright ears and watchful expression. The single coat is long, soft and as the name implies, silky. Puppies are born black and tan, changing to a silver and tan with blue evident along the spine as the dog ages. Some dogs will not change colour. Silkies stand around 9 inches (about 22.5 cms) at the wither. Tails are usually docked, but this is optional.

Grooming

The coat of this dog is silky to the touch, made of fine, glossy, medium length hair. A silky Toy Terrier has a distinctive topknot. This dog requires tremendous care to keep its long hair tangle free. These dogs are tan and blue-gray (silver) in color.

Temperament

Usual terrier characteristics embody keen alertness, constant activity and occasional defiance. Silkies were originally bred to kill rodents, and still posses ratter characteristics; always watchful for scurrying prey. Silkies are a robust breed, generally very happy and love to play. But they also have a mischievous side, and although they are regarded as quite intelligent, very loyal and trainable, a defiant streak can appear. Silkies are known to maintain a puppy attitude throughout life. Obedience classes are recommended.

Silkies are a very game breed, full of bravado and have strong guarding instincts. Some have a reputation for constant barking. Silkies often appear to think they are a large dog trapped in a small dog's body. As such they are known to try and take on much larger dogs, and invariably lose.

Breeders state that though Silkies were once very snappy and aggressive this characteristic has been recognised by dedicated, responsible breeders and great efforts made to eliminate it. However the strongly independent and game nature of the breed can predispose to a tendency for surliness, leading to outbursts of snappy aggression if pushed beyond their tolerance. If dominant males are nearby, it is possible they will clash.

Silkies will often devote themselves to one particular member of the family, usually the one who provides food. It is recommended that a child feed the dog as this will assist with its integration with members of the family.

Health and lifespan

Silkies are a hardy breed. Rotten teeth are the most common health problem. This is a genetic weakness in the breed and is best addressed by feeding raw bones from puppy age onwards. Ensure that the parents of your pup have been cleared for eye defects and be aware that patella luxation, slipping kneecaps, is known to occur. It is less common than once before but have your vet check the pup after purchase. Silkies have a healthy lifespan of up to 15 years.