Silky Terrier
Toy Group · Purebred · Australia's elegant toy terrier — small in size, enormous in personality
8–10 lbsWeight
9–10 inHeight
13–15 yrsLifespan
HighEnergy
Toy Group · Purebred · Australia's elegant toy terrier — small in size, enormous in personality
Watch this video for a quick overview of the Silky Terrier — see the breed in action before diving into the details below.
The Silky Terrier — also known as the Australian Silky Terrier or Sydney Silky — is a true-blue Australian breed developed in the late 1800s by crossing imported Yorkshire Terriers with native Australian Terriers. The goal was to create a small companion dog with the coat beauty of the Yorkie but with more terrier substance and toughness. The result is a compact, vivacious little dog with a stunning floor-length blue and tan coat that flows like silk.
Don't let the elegant coat fool you — the Silky is a genuine terrier through and through. They were used to kill snakes and rodents in Sydney yards, and that hunting instinct remains strong. They are alert, energetic, curious, and brave far beyond their size. They bond closely with their families and are significantly more spirited than the typical toy breed. They need more exercise than most toys and will happily accompany their owner on long walks.
Real Silky Terriers — browse photos showcasing their look, size, and personality.
Silky Terriers are known for being affectionate, alert, and adaptable. They form deep bonds with their families and thrive on consistent human connection. As a high-energy breed, they are best matched with active owners who enjoy outdoor activities and can commit to regular exercise.
Training is generally a pleasure with Silky Terriers — they are responsive, motivated, and pick up commands quickly. With proper socialization they can do well with children, though supervision is always wise.
Silky Terriers are high-energy dogs that need significant daily exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate activity they can become restless, vocal, or destructive. They are happiest with owners who genuinely enjoy an active lifestyle.
Silky Terriers have a longer coat that requires consistent grooming to stay mat-free and healthy. Establishing a grooming routine early ensures your dog is comfortable being handled and brushed, which makes the process enjoyable for both of you.
Silky Terriers are moderately trainable and respond well to patient, consistent positive reinforcement. They benefit from clear expectations and a calm, confident trainer who establishes routines early.
Keep sessions short — 10 to 15 minutes — and always end on a success. Enrolling in a puppy or adult obedience class provides structured learning and valuable socialization.
Silky Terriers are generally healthy for their size, though regular screening helps catch issues early. Responsible breeders screen breeding stock for the most common conditions, significantly reducing risk in puppies from health-tested parents.
A Silky Terrier is ideal for active families or individuals who genuinely enjoy outdoor activities and can commit to daily vigorous exercise. Their trainability makes them approachable for first-time owners who are prepared for an engaged lifestyle. Not the right fit for sedentary households or those with very limited time for exercise.
Silky Terriers need consistent, well-portioned meals matched to their life stage. Overfeeding is one of the biggest health risks for any dog — use these guidelines and adjust based on your dog's activity level and body condition.
These are general guidelines for a toy-breed dog. Always check the feeding instructions on your specific food brand, and adjust based on activity level and body condition score.
Look for dog foods where the first ingredient is a named protein — chicken, beef, salmon, or lamb. Toy-breed formulas are calibrated for their metabolism and nutritional needs.
These common human foods can be toxic — even life-threatening — for dogs. Keep them safely out of reach at all times.
Always bring your Silky Terrier's regular food when boarding. Switching food suddenly can cause digestive upset. Provide the facility your exact feeding schedule and portion sizes.
The upfront cost of a Silky Terrier is just the beginning. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to expect — both to acquire one and to own one for their lifetime.
Beyond the purchase price, owning a Silky Terrier costs between $80–$150 per month on average. Here's where the money goes:
Over a 12–16 year lifespan, a Silky Terrier typically costs between $6,000–$14,000 total — depending on health, lifestyle, and the services you use.
Pet insurance is worth considering for any breed. Buying before your dog turns 1 gives the best rates and fewest pre-existing condition exclusions. Compare 2–3 providers before committing.
Because Silky Terriers have such wonderful traits, they're a popular choice for intentional mixed breeding. Here are the most common — and most loved — Silky Terrier crosses.
Silky Terrier × Yorkshire Terrier. Silkier, bolder, stunning blue and tan companion.
Silky Terrier × Maltese. Feisty, white-coated, low-shedding toy companion.
Silky Terrier × Poodle. Curlier coat, highly intelligent, longer-lived toy dog.
Silky Terrier × Chihuahua. Tiny, bold, silky-coated feisty pocket companion.
Silky Terriers are full of surprises. Here are some of the most fascinating, funny, and heartwarming facts about this breed.