Australian Silky Terrier – an energetic dog with elegance and a dash

📜 Origin and history of the breed

The Australian Silky Terrier, often simply called "Silky," is a breed that originated in Australia in the late 19th century. Its ancestors were primarily Yorkshire Terriers and Australian Terriers – these were deliberately crossed to create a dog with the long, silky coat of a Yorkie, but with the character and resilience typical of Australian working dogs. Breeding focused not only on appearance but also on courage, endurance, and adaptability to urban living.

The first dogs of this breed appeared in Sydney, where they served not only as companions but also as effective rodent exterminators. Early Silky Terriers varied greatly in appearance, so work began in the early 20th century to establish a uniform breed standard. The final standard was developed in Australia in the 1930s, and the breed was officially recognized by local kennel clubs.

The breed arrived in the United States after World War II, when soldiers brought them back as charming souvenirs from their time in the Antipodes. Thanks to its unique appearance and compact size, the Silky quickly won the hearts of American families and subsequently gained popularity in Europe, although it never achieved the same fame as its cousin, the Yorkshire Terrier.

Today, the Australian Silky Terrier is valued as a companion dog—it combines the dignity of an aristocrat with the courage of a terrier. It symbolizes the modern, urban dog—intelligent, stylish, and ready for adventure. Often called simply "Silky," this breed originated in Australia in the late 19th century. Its ancestors were primarily Yorkshire Terriers and Australian Terriers, and the goal of breeding was to combine the elegant appearance of the Yorkie with the courage and independence of its Australian cousin.

The breed quickly gained popularity as a companion dog and watchful home guard. The Silky was prized for its compact size, lively nature, and long, silky, hair-like coat. To this day, it remains one of the favorite small dogs in Australia, the United States, and Europe, although it is not as well-known as its cousin, the Yorkshire Terrier.

🧠 Character and temperament

Silky is a dog full of energy, curious, intelligent, and deeply attached to its owner. Although it looks like a doll, at heart it harbors the temperament of a typical terrier – brave, alert, and tenacious.

This small dog has a big personality – not only striking in appearance but also full of character. He's very intelligent, eager to participate in home life, and quickly responds to his owners' emotions. He likes to be in control, and his independence and determination often manifest themselves in small but decisive actions – he can stand his ground when something doesn't suit him.

He's the perfect companion for those who enjoy being active and are looking for a dog with a close bond. The Silky requires attention – if ignored, it may try to demand attention through barking or playful behavior.

• Lively, always ready to play

• Devoted and loyal to his family

• Alert – a great alarm dog, reacts quickly to new sounds and people

• He is sometimes distrustful of strangers - he needs time to accept the new environment

• Loves mental challenges – quick to learn and clever

• Determined and stubborn, but very receptive to training using positive methods.

This dog with a big ego thrives in both apartments and houses with a garden, as long as it's given the right amount of exercise, stimulation, and—above all—human contact. It thrives where it's treated seriously—not as a decorative detail, but as a full-fledged family member with its own mind. It thrives in both apartments and houses with a garden, as long as it's given the right amount of exercise and stimulation.

📏 Size and appearance

The Australian Silky Terrier is a dog with an exceptionally elegant yet compact appearance. Despite its small size, its physique is strong, proportionate, and dynamic, reflecting the strength and agility typical of terriers.

• Height at the withers : 23–26 cm

• Weight : 3.5–4.5 kg

• Silhouette : low, elongated, with a straight back and well-developed chest

• Head : proportionate, with a slightly elongated muzzle and a strong muzzle

• Ears : small, erect, triangular, set high – give the dog an alert and lively expression

• Eyes : dark, oval, full of sparkle and intelligence

• Coat : long, silky, smooth and shiny, reaching almost to the ground but not obscuring the dog's movement; no undercoat

• Color : steel blue with distinct, intense tan markings in shades of gold and reddish - on the muzzle, paws, ears and underbelly

In motion, Silky appears light, supple, and elegant. His strides are confident and balanced, underscoring his self-confidence. Despite his luxurious appearance, he's not a "show dog"—he's a small athlete with a refined presence.

His appearance often arouses interest – he resembles a miniature aristocrat with a mane of perfectly styled hair.

🩺 Health and Care

The Australian Silky Terrier is a breed in relatively good health, but like any dog, it has its own specific needs and predispositions to certain health and grooming problems.

Health:

• Dental problems – Silky is prone to tartar buildup, which can lead to gingivitis and tooth loss. Daily brushing or providing dental chews is essential.

• Patella luxation is an orthopedic condition common to small breeds that can cause lameness and pain; it requires monitoring and treatment if necessary.

• Skin sensitivity – thin, delicate skin can react to synthetic materials, parasite infestations, or inappropriate cosmetics. It's worth using natural shampoos and proven products.

• Eye conditions – tear duct problems or a tendency to eye irritation may occasionally occur. Regular washing and monitoring are recommended.

• Separation anxiety – as a dog that is very attached to its owner, the Silky may not tolerate prolonged periods of being alone. It is recommended to gradually accustom the dog to being left alone or to provide it with companionship.

Care:

• Brushing : daily or at least a few times a week to prevent tangles and maintain a shiny coat. The coat should not tangle or mat.

• Baths : every 2–4 weeks, preferably with a shampoo for dogs with silky coats; smoothing conditioners also work well.

• Hair trimming : regular visits to the groomer or self-trimming around the eyes, paws and anus for hygiene.

• Teeth : brush daily or at least 3-4 times a week, supplemented with dental chews.

• Nails : trimmed every 2–3 weeks, especially for dogs living in apartments.

• Ears and eyes : Clean once a week; ears in particular should be checked regularly for infections or excess earwax.

Thanks to its hair structure and low shedding, the Silky is suitable even for allergy sufferers. However, it requires regular and careful grooming to maintain its beauty and health. This is not only a dog to admire, but also one to care for responsibly.

🧠 Training and activity

Despite its compact size, the Australian Silky Terrier has enormous energy and requires regular physical activity and mental stimulation. It's an intelligent dog that learns quickly, but it's also independent and can be stubborn – so a proper approach to training and daily activities is crucial.

Training:

• The best results are achieved with positive reinforcement – rewards, praise, treats and short training sessions;

• He needs consistency – he can be clever and if he notices that he can negotiate something his way, he will try to take advantage of it;

• They get bored quickly – that’s why it’s worth diversifying your learning sessions and treating them as shared fun;

• A great learner of tricks and basic commands – thanks to his willingness to cooperate and high intelligence;

• It is worth starting socialization from a puppy - it will help him grow into a balanced, sociable dog.

Physical and mental activity:

• Daily walks : minimum 2–3 a day, including at least one longer or more intense one;

• Games at home and in the garden : fetching, pulling a string, hiding treats;

• Logic toys and snooping mats : support mental development and prevent boredom;

• Kennel sports : Silky is great at agility, obedience, rally-o and tricks;

• Joint exercises with the guardian : e.g. mini obstacle course at home, learning new commands or sequences of movements.

Although not a sporting dog, Silky loves exercise and human contact. An unmet need for activity can lead to frustration, barking, or hyperactivity. Therefore, the ideal day for Silky is one that combines walks, play, training, and evening cuddles with its owner.

🏡 Silky in the family

Silky is a great family dog – friendly, loyal, and very sociable. He's sociable, enjoys being the center of attention, and develops strong bonds with family members. His compact size, quiet nature, and high intelligence make him an ideal companion for people of all ages – from singles and couples to families with children and seniors.

He gets along well with children, as long as they're taught to be gentle and respectful. Silky doesn't like being treated like a toy – he dislikes noise and sudden movements, so he'd do better in homes with older, calmer children. However, he's always happy to join in on group activities – from playing to relaxing on the couch.

He can be dominant with other animals, especially dogs of the same sex. He usually gets along well with cats, but his hunting instincts can become more pronounced with smaller animals, such as rodents or birds, so he requires supervision and socialization from puppyhood.

Silky hates boredom and loneliness—they need human company and contact. Being left alone for too long can result in barking, frustration, or destructive behavior. This dog thrives in a home where someone is always nearby or at least has a regular routine.

They thrive in an environment full of stimulation and interaction—both physical and emotional. For an active family, they can be the perfect companion for daily walks, playtime, and relaxation.

🚗 Traveling with an Australian Silky Terrier

Silky is the perfect travel companion – compact, alert, and curious. Due to his delicate build and sensitive nature, it's important to ensure his safety and comfort while traveling – especially by car.

The Oi car seat from Petto is the ideal solution . It stabilizes your dog while driving, protects against bumps, and limits the possibility of movement within the vehicle. The internal harness prevents your pet from jumping out, and the high sides act as a cozy nest.

👉 See the Oi car seat – safe and stylish travel with your dog

Reducing stress is also crucial for Silky – it's a good idea to bring his favorite blanket or toy, air out the vehicle before driving, and avoid sudden maneuvers. Regular stops and a relaxed pace will make every trip a pleasure for your dog.

🧺 Caring for an Australian Silky Terrier

Silky is a dog that requires not only love and affection, but also thoughtful care in everyday life at home. Due to his delicate skeletal structure and susceptibility to injury, creating a safe space for him is crucial.

One of the items that make everyday life easier is the Takai steps from Petto – lightweight, soft, and stable. They allow for safe entry and exit from the couch or bed, while protecting your dog's joints from injury.

👉 See the Takai steps – safe access to furniture

It is also worth taking care of the proper organization of space:

• place the bed in a quiet corner,

• protect steep stairs and furniture edges,

• use non-slip mats,

• Avoid leaving small toys or objects that your dog could swallow.

Regular health checks, joint supplementation (e.g. glucosamine, collagen) and a calm daily routine will ensure Silky lives a long, healthy and happy life.

💤 The perfect place to sleep

The Australian Silky Terrier, though full of energy, equally values moments of rest – preferably in a warm, soft, and safe bed. Due to its delicate build and love of comfort, it's worth providing it with a place that's both functional and cozy.

One of the best choices is the Osaka Fluffy bed from Petto – exceptionally soft, with high edges and a fluffy interior. It perfectly adapts to the needs of small breeds, providing a feeling of coziness and insulating them from cold floors.

👉 Check out the Osaka Fluffy bed – Silky's favorite resting place

It's best to place the bed in a quiet place, away from drafts and noise - Silky, like any social dog, likes to be close to people, but at the same time needs his own, quiet space to regenerate.

❓ Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is the Australian Silky Terrier a good breed for beginners?
Yes, as long as the future owner is ready for an active and lively dog that needs consistent but gentle guidance and close contact with humans.

Does the Silky Terrier shed a lot of hair?
No. Its silky coat has no undercoat and sheds minimally, but requires regular brushing and grooming.

How often should you bathe Silky?
It is recommended to bathe every 2–4 weeks using gentle shampoos for silky coats.

Does this dog get along well with children?
Yes, as long as children are taught to respect the dog and aren't too noisy or pushy. Silky enjoys company but hates being treated like a toy.

Can Silky be left home alone?
Only briefly. This breed is very sociable and prone to separation anxiety – it needs the company of a human or another dog.

Is the Australian Silky Terrier suitable for apartment living?
Absolutely. It's small, quiet, and adapts well to city conditions—as long as it's walked and played with daily.

🌟 Interesting facts about the Australian Silky Terrier

• 🇦🇺 One of the few breeds created in Australia , the Silky is a truly Australian breed, just like its cousin, the Australian Terrier.

• 🏙️ A city dog with the soul of a hunter – despite its elegant appearance and small size, Silky was once an effective rodent hunter in urban homes.

• 🎬 Screen Star – Thanks to its beauty, this breed has been used in commercials and television programs, especially in the USA and Japan.

• 💇 Not fur, but hair – Silky has a fur structure that resembles human hair, which makes it ideal for allergy sufferers (although it is not completely hypoallergenic).

• 🧠 A terrier in full class – although he looks like an aristocrat, his temperament resembles a real hunter: smart, brave, fast and self-confident.

📌 Summary

The Australian Silky Terrier is a small dog with a big personality – elegant, joyful, alert, and very devoted. Despite its small size, this breed requires commitment, patience, and attentiveness from its owner. Silky Terriers hate solitude and need daily physical and mental activity, human closeness, and a routine that provides a sense of security.

This dog is at home in both a city center apartment and a house with a garden – as long as he can participate in the lives of his humans. He surprises with his intelligence, quick learning, eagerness to play, and immense personal charm. His silky coat catches the eye, but it's Silky's heart and character that make him hard not to fall in love.

For families with children, seniors, couples, and singles, a Silky can be a faithful companion for years, provided it's given affection, security, and space to grow. This dog needs not only a place to live, but above all, a person who truly understands it.