Other considerations:
● 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.
How can I take good care of my Australian Silky Terrier or Australian Silky Terrier Puppy?
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.
That said, it’s vital that you train them early. You should use a calm and assertive approach when training them. This is because small terriers get defensive when they feel threatened. For easier training sessions, use treats and praise them when they learn a command.