The Silky Terrier is a small, elegant terrier from Australia with a long, silky coat and a friendly, energetic nature. The Silky Terrier is affectionate, playful and intelligent, a loving family dog that loves children, other dogs and being part of everything.
Quick Facts
- Origin: Australia
- Group: Toy / Terrier
- Lifespan: 13–15 years
- Weight: 4–5 kg
- Height: 23–26 cm at the shoulder
- Temperament: Friendly, energetic, intelligent, playful
- Good with kids: Yes — best with older children, with supervision
- Good with other pets: Yes, with early socialisation
- Exercise needs: Moderate — about 1 hour a day
- Grooming: High — long, silky coat, daily brushing
Temperament & Personality
Silky Terriers are friendly, energetic and deeply loyal to their family. They bond closely with their people, love children, and are usually good with other dogs. They are happy, lively dogs that love to play and be part of everything. They are terriers through and through: they dig, chase and bark, and they need a job to do. They can be stubborn and independent, so training needs patience and consistency. They love company but can settle alone for a few hours. They are not guard dogs — a Silky Terrier will greet a stranger with a wagging tail.
Health
Silky Terriers are generally healthy and long-lived. Known issues include kneecap problems (patellar luxation), diabetes, allergies, and eye problems. Buy from a breeder who health-tests the parents, and see the vet regularly.
Training
Silky Terriers are intelligent and quick to learn, but they can be stubborn — training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards. Short, fun, reward-based sessions work best, and early socialisation helps them stay confident with strangers, children and other dogs. Teach a reliable recall from puppyhood: a Silky Terrier on a chase will not come back. Harsh methods damage trust.
Food & Nutrition
A Silky Terrier needs a good-quality complete food in measured meals — two meals a day suit most adults. Treats should be counted as part of the daily intake. Silky Terriers are lean, active dogs and should stay lean — you should be able to feel the ribs easily. A vet can advise the right amount for your dog’s age and weight, and fresh water should always be available.
Grooming
The Silky Terrier’s long, silky coat needs brushing daily to prevent tangles, plus trimming every few months to keep the coat in shape. Baths only when dirty. The ears should be checked weekly, nails trimmed regularly, and teeth brushed. Silky Terriers shed lightly to moderately.
Exercise
A Silky Terrier needs about 1 hour of activity a day: walks, play and training games, plus mental work such as scent games and puzzle feeders. They are small dogs with plenty of energy — a Silky Terrier needs to run, dig and think every day. Without it, expect digging, chewing, barking and escaping.
Is the Silky Terrier Right for You?
The Silky Terrier suits families who want a small, friendly companion and can give it 1 hour of exercise and daily grooming. It does well in flats and houses alike. It is less suited to owners who dislike grooming, or anyone wanting a calm, quiet dog.
FAQs
Are Silky Terriers good for first-time owners?
Yes, for an active first-time owner. They are friendly and trainable, but their energy, grooming needs and stubbornness surprise many new owners.
Do Silky Terriers shed a lot?
Lightly to moderately. Their silky coat sheds all year but is easy to manage with regular brushing.
How much exercise does a Silky Terrier need every day?
About 1 hour of walks and play, plus training to keep the mind busy.
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