Australian Silky Terrier
● Key Characteristics Of Australian Silky Terriers
● How Can I Take Good Care Of A Australian Silky Terrier Puppy?
● Most Asked Australian Silky Terrier Questions
● Similar Dog Breeds
Australian Silky Terriers are a small dog breed that’s full of energy. These short-legged creatures may look glamorous, but they’re expert rodent killers and make keen watchdogs. These dogs are slightly longer than their height and have compact, sturdy bodies.
● Key Characteristics Of Australian Silky Terriers
● How Can I Take Good Care Of A Australian Silky Terrier Puppy?
● Most Asked Australian Silky Terrier Questions
● Similar Dog Breeds
Australian Silky Terriers are a small dog breed that’s full of energy. These short-legged creatures may look glamorous, but they’re expert rodent killers and make keen watchdogs. These dogs are slightly longer than their height and have compact, sturdy bodies.
At first glance, you might think that the Silky Terrier is a Yorkshire or Australian Terrier. Well, you’re not far from the truth. Australian Silky Terriers are a result of cross breeding the Yorkies and Aussies.
The Silky breed was developed in Australia back in the 1800s. The breeders were looking to create a dog that had the well-built structure of an Aussie. The breed also needed to have the colour and personality of the Yorkshire Terrier.
Their crossbreeding was a massive success. The resulting pups had the aesthetic appeal of a Yorkie and the intellect of an Aussie. With regards to size, they were smaller than Aussies but bigger than Yorkies.
Soon after the outcross, breeders disagreed on the proper weight and name of the breed. In 1926, they made a compromise on the weight. As for the name, it took them a little longer to agree on the fitting title. They went from the Sydney Silky Terrier to Australian Silky Terrier.
| Are Cavoodles Family-Friendly? | These dogs get on well with their owners. But because of their small size, they are better suited for families with older kids as toddlers can be a bit rough. |
| Daily Exercise Needs? | A short walk for half an hour or so is enough. As cavoodles are playful, they burn off energy throughout the day. They do so by playing with a range of toys, which keep them mentally stimulated. |
| Common Health Issues & Considerations | Cavoodles may suffer from: ● Syringomyelia- a condition where their skulls turn out to be too small for their brains. ● Mitral Valve Disease- it’s a condition that affects the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. ● Cataracts- it’s characterized by the formation of a cloudy membrane over your dog’s eye. |
| Lifespan | 10 to 14 years. |
| Nature / Temperament | Cavoodles are a gentle and sweet-natured dog breed. They are lively and friendly dogs that are very sociable. This is not surprising since both of their parents have these traits. Even though they look like teddy bears, these dogs are intelligent as they are trainable. |
| Size | Weight: Both males and females weigh between 5 and 12 kg Height: 30 to 35 cm |
| Suitable Environment | This is mainly an indoor dog. Its small size makes it perfect for an apartment. Plus, it does not create a mess at home. Although it has a curious nature, the Cavoodle likes observing its surrounding silently. |
| Grooming | They are non-shedding to low shedding dogs. But even though they don’t shed that much, their fur still needs regular grooming. It’s a good idea to brush their coat on a weekly basis to prevent it from getting tangled. |
● The Silky Terriers like chasing small animals so they’re not suited for homes with smaller or similar size pets. On the plus side, they help to rid your home of vermin.
● Like most terriers, these dogs love to dig.
● They are vocal – a trait that makes suitable watchdogs.
● Although they’re generally friendly, they‘re good for families with older kids.
Nutrition
A Silky Terrier ought to feed on 0.5 – 1 cup of nutrient-rich dog food every day. It should be split into two equal meals, and it could be a home-cooked meal or high-quality dog kibble.
One of the conditions that Silkies are genetically predisposed to is patellar luxation. Therefore, it’s vital that they’re fed a diet high in proteins. Whenever possible, stick to dog foods that list real meat as the first ingredient.
Grooming
Judging from their appearance, you can tell Silky Terriers are a high-maintenance breed. So, it’s a good idea to get your dog professionally groomed several times per year.
Similarly, if you want your dog to keep the neat and long show coat, you’ll need to brush it 2 to 3 times weekly. During grooming, untangle any matted hair to make it easier to brush.
Recommended Grooming Tips:
● Bathe your dog on an ‘as needed’ basis.
● Brush your Silky Terrier’s teeth 2 to 3 times a week.
● Their nails also need to be trimmed and filed 1 to 2 times per month.
Exercise
Despite their minute size, the Silky Terrier still needs to be exercised. They enjoy short walks or playing with you in the backyard. They could also benefit from a trip to a dog park.
These terriers are generally not fond of the outdoors. They prefer to be in the company of their owners indoors. Besides, they’re so small they could be mistaken for prey by wild animals.
Training
As is the case with most Terrier breeds, the Silky can be a handful to train. They are independent-minded and somewhat stubborn.
They generally are. They are more terriers than they are ‘lap dogs’. They do well with owners who are able to channel their energy into exercise and sports training.
The temperament of this breed blends the best from both worlds. Their traits as a toy breed makes them the perfect companion. Still they are terriers at heart, therefore very energetic and fun to be around.
Silky Terriers for sale cost between $800 – $1,500 approximately.
This is general information and should not be relied on as adoption or purchasing advice.