Note: The breed registries indicated above are the most recognized all-breed registries. The breed may also be recognized by other registries not indicated here. For further details about dog registries, please see the document: Dog Breed Registries in North America.
* — The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) is the World Canine Organisation, which includes members (one member per country) that each issue their own pedigrees and train their own judges. The FCI recognizes 332 breeds, with each being the "property" of a specific country. The FCI is not a breed registry nor does it issue pedigrees.
Origin:
Australia
Height:
9 to 10 inches (23-25 cm)
The Silky Terrier was developed in Australia in the early 1900s and is a blend of the Autralian and Yorkshire Terriers. Originally, the breed was known as the Sydney Silky Terrier and, in 1955, the official name became the Australian Silky Terrier. The breed is known in North America as the Silky Terrier. The Silky, known as a "toy terrier", was bred to be a family companion and he is generally good with children and likes being with other pets.
The Silky is alert, friendly, inquisitive and responsive. He is neither as active as a Terrier nor as needing of care as many of the Toy breeds. He does, however, enjoy participating in various dog sports and activities including conformation shows, obedience, agility, flyball, earthdog trials, and tracking.
His coat is fine in texture, flat-lying, glossy and silky. His body hair ranges from 5 to 6 inches in length and he wears a profuse topknot on the top of his head. His colour is blue with tan markings.
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In general, the Silky Terrier is a healthy breed. Like all breeds of dogs, however, the Silky is not completely free of health problems. Some health issues which have been seen in the breed include:
Patella Luxation — A condition that affects many of the Toy breeds.
Legg Calves Perthes Disease — A condition similar to Hip Dysplasia except that the ball joint of the leg where it connects to the hip is affected rather than the hip itself.
If you are considering the adoption of a Silky Terrier puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Additional Health Resources:
Health and Nutrition — Canada's Guide to Dogs growing section on several health and nutrition related issues.
AKC SILKY TERRIER VIDEO
19 Min. Video Edition, Published by the AKC
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
— Available from Dogwise.com
The Silky Terrier's long silky coat needs daily brushing to keep it free of mats and in good condition. The coat is non-shedding and virtually odourless.
Dental Care — Many of the Toy breeds, including the Silky, require extra care with their teeth. Tarter build-up and loose teeth is much more common in the smaller breeds of dogs. It is important to keep the teeth clean and brushing daily using only dog toothpaste will help maintain the teeth in good health.
Grooming — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes tips, articles and information covering all aspects of dog grooming along with a listing of Groomers from across Canada.
SHOW OFF YOUR DOG: GROOMING BASICS VIDEO
60 Min. Video Edition, by Ena Lane
Suitable for 54 longhaired breeds, but especially good for parted-coat breeds. Will also show you to make grooming a pleasant and rewarding experience for you and your dog. Groomer is Ena Lane, breeder and handler, Shih Tzus.
— Available from Dogwise.com
Training — For information on training your dog, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
Clubs, Sports & Activities — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes information on several dog sports and activities as well as listings of non-breed specific clubs from across Canada. (Note: For breed specific clubs, see the Breed Clubs section.)
Working Dogs — Dedicated to the working dog. This section includes tributes, information on various dog jobs, and listings of organizations from across Canada.
Select from the following links to view Silky Terrier Breeder listings; Breed Clubs; Shows and Events; Rescue Organizations; as well as Books and Merchandise specific to the Silky Terrier breed:
