The Silky Terrier is a loving, energy dog. They are good watch dogs, although they can tend to be barkers. They can be kept in an apartment as they are small enough to get most of there exercise needs indoors. They are good with other dogs but must be extensively socialized with other pets. They do best with older children that they have been socialized with. The can tend to be a one person or one family dog. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

Approximate Adult Size

The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Silky Terrier is 9 to 10 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 8 to 11 pounds.

Special Health Considerations

Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Silky Terrier is no exception. Although considered a very healthy breed, be on the look out for teeth problems, genetic eye disease and collapsing trachea. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

Grooming

The Silky Terrier has a single coat of fine silky hair. She should be brushed daily. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her. Occasional professional grooming should be considered.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.

Life Span

The Silky Terrier can live between 12 and 15 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

History

The Silky Terrier comes from Australia where they were used as a ratter, snake killer and pet. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1959.

Some Registries

• Silky Terrier Club of America
  
• UKC United Kennel Club
  
• NKC National Kennel Club
  
• CKC Continental Kennel Club
  
• APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
  
• AKC American Kennel Club
  
• FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale
  
• NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
  
• KCGB Kennel Club of Great Britain
  
• ANKC Australian National Kennel Club
  
• ACR American Canine Registry
  

3 to 5 Silky Terrier puppies

Category

Toy

Terms To Describe

Inquisitive, joy, alert, lively, responsive, quick, friendly, affectionate

SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

• Makes a good watch dog.
  
• Very little shedding.
  
• Easy to train and difficult to train.
  

• Makes a poor guard do.
  
• Can be a barker.
  
• May need a harness rather than a leash
  
• Possible collapsing trachea
  

Sidney Silky, Austrailian Silky Terrier

Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.

About the Author

Mitch Endick is a short article writer, editor and website developer for the popular pet site http://www.petpages.com, a pet information site with free pet ads, dog classifieds, and puppy for sale info. Petpages.com also offers information on cats, fish, reptiles, birds, ferrets, rabbits, mice and even pet bugs.

¶ 5:29 PM