Developed and originally made popular in Australia, the Silky Terrier is one of the small dogs breed that are dominating the hearts of the toy-dog-loving fanciers of the world. In the US, this little dog is called the Silky Terrier. In Australia and other parts of the world, it is called the Australian Silky Terrier or the Sidney Terrier.
This tiny breed of the Land Down Under is highly regarded for being loving, smart, courageous and vigilant. Do not be misguided into thinking, however, that this little breed is merely a lapdog. This breed is too energetic to become one and will in fact make a rather good watchdog.
The breed is also very animated, full of zeal and loves to dig dirt for a hobby. It is highly inquisitive and loves to know and learn about things it finds amusing or interesting. Playing around and just being active with small short runs and plays makes this dog happy.
When it comes to training, this dog does not like to beat around the bush as it wants the training straightforward. It is highly biddable, quick and very eager to learn making each training a fast one and interesting. This dog can happily strive in an apartment living because it can satisfyingly get active indoors with only a few minutes of daily walks around the neighborhood.
Gifted with a well-boned body, the adorable Silky Terrier stands moderately low with only 9 to 10 inches of height to boot. Its ears animatedly stand erect and v-shaped while its tail is often docked. The nose is black and the eyes are round, dark and suggest an intense expression.
The bodies of the Silky Terriers are beautifully wrapped with 5 to 6 inches of long, fine, and silky soft hair. It is parted at the center on its back and drapes smoothly at the sides which almost reaches the floor. The hair of the Silky has no undercoat, sheds very little and often comes in combinations of blue and fire red, blue and tan markings, and any combinations of the blue shade.
To keep the Silky's hair at its best, regular grooming is needed such as daily brushing or combing and regular baths. Its coat should also be trimmed regularly in order to keep it healthy and neat. Most Silky Terriers have hair on top of their heads that covers the eyes so it is best to tie this in a topknot.
The development of the Silky Terrier was contributed by some other terrier breeds and these are believed to be the Skye, Cairn, Yorkshire and Australian terriers. It was the American servicemen, who were stationed in Australia during WWII, who brought the Silky Terrier to the United States. In 1959, this breed became an official member of the American Kennel Club and in 1962, its first breed standard had been created.
