Search over 9 Australian Silky Terrier dogs across Australia
Australian Silky Terriers, despite their glamorous appearance, are energetic and feisty. These short-legged, sturdy dogs excel at rodent control and serve as vigilant watchdogs. Their compact bodies are slightly longer than their height, giving them a distinctive look.

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Australian Silky Terriers, despite their glamorous appearance, are energetic and feisty. These short-legged, sturdy dogs excel at rodent control and serve as vigilant watchdogs. Their compact bodies are slightly longer than their height, giving them a distinctive look.
Questions To Ask A Breeder
- Are you are registered breeder?
- Can we meet in person?
- Have they been socialised?

Breed Characteristics
Grooming
Exercise
Size Range
The Ultimate Australian Silky Terrier Guide
About Australian Silky Terrier
Known for their glamorous appearance, Australian Silky Terrier are also skilled rodent hunters and keen watchdogs. Their lively, inquisitive nature makes them a delightful companion, suited for various living environments.
Lifespan
12 to 15 years
Weight
3 - 6 kg
Height
23 - 26 cm
Grooming
Their coats need brushing 2 to 3 times a week.
Origins
Silky Terriers, often mistaken for Yorkshire or Australian Terriers, result from crossbreeding these breeds.
Developed in Australia in the 1800s, breeders aimed to create a dog with the robust structure of an Aussie and the color and personality of a Yorkie.
The crossbreeding produced a dog with the Yorkie’s aesthetic appeal and the Aussie’s intellect.
Despite initial disagreements on the breed’s weight and name, they were later recognized as the Australian Silky Terrier.
Key Characteristics Of Australian Silky Terriers
Are Australian Silky Terriers Family-Friendly?
Their playful and affectionate nature makes them a great addition to active families.
Common Health Issues & Considerations
Australian Silky Terriers may suffer from:
Diabetes Mellitus
Epilepsy
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
A condition where the blood supply to the femoral head is disrupted, leading to joint inflammation, degeneration, and lameness.
Patellar Luxation
A condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal location within the knee joint.
Nature / Temperament
Feisty, inquisitive, playful, and brave.
Suitable Environment
The Australian Silky Terrier thrives in a variety of living environments. This breed adapts well to both apartment living and homes with yards.
Other Considerations
● Chasing Instincts: Silky Terriers love chasing small animals, so they’re not suited for homes with smaller or similar-sized pets. However, they are excellent at keeping vermin at bay.
● Digging: Like most terriers, these dogs love to dig.
● Vocal Nature: Their vocal nature makes them excellent watchdogs.
● Family Fit: Although generally friendly, they’re best suited for families with older children.
How can I take good care of my Australian Silky Terrier?
Nutrition
A Silky Terrier should consume 0.5 – 1 cup of nutrient-rich dog food daily, split into two meals.
To support their predisposition to patellar luxation, their diet should be high in proteins, with real meat listed as the first ingredient.
Grooming
Silky Terriers, with their lustrous coats, require high-maintenance grooming.
Professional grooming several times a year is advisable.
To maintain their neat and long show coat, brush it 2 to 3 times weekly and untangle any matted hair during grooming.
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 small size, Silky Terriers need exercise. They enjoy short walks or playing in the backyard.
Trips to the dog park can also be beneficial. They prefer indoor environments and staying close to their owners.
Training
Silky Terriers can be challenging to train due to their independent and stubborn nature.
Early training with a calm, assertive approach, using treats and praise, can yield the best results.
Most Asked Australian Silky Terrier Questions
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.
Australian Silky Terriers for sale cost between $800 – $1,500 approximately. Don’t fall for breeders that purport to give you a deal that’s too good to be true – it’s most often because they haven’t done the proper health checks to ensure that their puppies are happy and healthy. Go with reputable Australian Silky Terrier breeders, such as ones registered with ethical breeder organisations.
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