In the early 1900s, native Australian Terriers were bred with imported Yorkshire Terriers to create the Silky Terrier. This breed is an affectionate, high-energy toy terrier that has long blue and tan silky fur, a wedge-shaped face, and V-shaped ears that stand erect.
In this comprehensive breed guide, we've compiled everything you need to know about the Silky Terrier, including breed characteristics, health considerations, care requirements, training tips, grooming needs, and all essential supplies. We've evaluated each product based on quality, safety, appropriateness for the breed, ease of use, and value. All products reviewed here include direct Amazon purchase links with our affiliate tag.
Quick Answer: Essential Silky Terrier Supplies
If you're in a hurry, here are the must-have items for a Silky Terrier:
- Food: Quality Dog Food - AAFCO-compliant, complete and balanced nutrition
- Food Bowl: Stainless Steel Bowl - Durable, easy to clean, appropriate size
- Grooming Tools: Grooming Tools - Brushes, combs, nail clippers
- Dog Bed: Comfortable Dog Bed - Supportive, appropriate size
- Toys: Interactive Dog Toys - Mental stimulation, exercise
- Leash and Collar: Leash and Collar Set - Safe, secure, comfortable
About Silky Terriers
In the early 1900s, native Australian Terriers were bred with imported Yorkshire Terriers to create the Silky Terrier. This breed is an affectionate, high-energy toy terrier that has long blue and tan silky fur, a wedge-shaped face, and V-shaped ears that stand erect.
Breed Characteristics
The Silky Terrier is known for its unique personality and characteristics. Each breed has specific traits that make them special, and understanding these characteristics is essential for providing proper care and training.
Silky Terriers are loving to their family members, and they’re good around other pets and children if your pup is socialized properly at a young age.
Silky Terrier Health Issues
Common Health Consideration
Silky Terriers are relatively healthy dogs. But like all dogs, they can develop some health issues throughout their long life.
Common Health Consideration
A cataract is a cloudy lens within the eye. Small cataracts are only visible with the aid of an ophthalmoscope, while large cataracts can be easy to see, as the pupil will look completely white. The larger the cataract, the more significant the loss of vision.
Common Health Consideration
Cataracts are usually hereditary, so breeders should not breed Silky Terriers with a family history of this eye condition. Surgery to remove the cataracts and restore eyesight is an option.
Common Health Consideration
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease occurs in Silky Terrier puppies, and causes limping in one or both of the hind limbs due to a lack of blood supply in the femur. This leads to necrosis of the bone, and it’s a painful condition that requires surgery to treat.
While individual dogs may vary, it's important to be aware of potential health issues that can affect the Silky Terrier. Regular veterinary care, proper nutrition, and preventive measures can help keep your dog healthy throughout their life.
Product Comparison Table
| Product | Key Features | Best For | Size/Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality Dog Food | AAFCO-compliant, complete and balanced nutrition | Daily nutrition, health maintenance | Appropriate for breed size |
| Food Bowl | Stainless steel, durable, easy to clean | Feeding, water | Appropriate size for breed |
| Grooming Tools | Brushes, combs, nail clippers | Grooming, coat maintenance | Appropriate for coat type |
| Dog Bed | Comfortable, supportive, washable | Rest, sleep, comfort | Appropriate size for breed |
What To Feed a Silky Terrier
Nutrition Basics
It’s important to feed your Silky Terrier a high-quality, small-breed dog food that meets the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Talk with your veterinarian to choose the best food for your dog.
Key Features: AAFCO-compliant, complete and balanced, appropriate for breed size
How Much Should You Feed a Silky Terrier?
The recommended caloric intake for Silky Terriers varies between individuals—it all comes down to their size, metabolism, neuter/spay status, and activity level. Additionally, the caloric content for each food may vary drastically from one brand to the next.
The best way to determine how much to feed a Silky Terrier is to talk with your veterinarian. They can calculate how much you should feed your dog. Additionally, the feeding guide labels on your dog food provide valuable information about portions.
Behavior and Training Tips for the Silky Terrier
Silky Terrier Personality and Temperament
Silky Terriers are loving to their family members, and they’re good around other pets and children if your pup is socialized properly at a young age.
Silky Terrier Training
Silky Terriers have a reputation for barking to alert their family or to seek attention. Working to stop excessive barking is an important part of training your Silky Terrier puppy.
Key Features: Positive reinforcement, lots of treats, early socialization, consistent training
View Training Treats on Amazon
Silky Terrier Grooming Guide
Skin Care
Regular bathing using dog shampoo helps keep your Silky Terrier's skin healthy. If you notice any changes in your dog's skin, such as redness or flakiness, talk to your veterinarian.
Key Features: Regular bathing, dog shampoo, monitor skin health
Coat Care
As their name implies, Silky Terriers have long, silky hair that makes up their coat. This breed does not shed much, but they do require upkeep to prevent matting.
Key Features: Regular brushing, prevent matting, coat maintenance
Considerations for Pet Parents
Family Compatibility
The Silky Terrier can make a great family pet when properly socialized and trained. Understanding the breed's needs and characteristics is essential for a successful relationship.
Exercise Needs
Final Verdict
In the early 1900s, native Australian Terriers were bred with imported Yorkshire Terriers to create the Silky Terrier. This breed is an affectionate, high-energy toy terrier that has long blue and tan silky fur, a wedge-shaped face, and V-shaped ears that stand erect.
With proper care including a balanced diet (AAFCO-compliant food), regular grooming, appropriate exercise, early socialization and training, and regular veterinary care, your Silky Terrier can live a healthy and happy life.
Quality supplies are an investment in your Silky Terrier's long-term health and happiness. Choose products that are safe, appropriate for the breed, and designed to meet their specific needs. With proper care and attention, your Silky Terrier will be a wonderful companion for many years to come.
Use this breed guide as a reference when considering or caring for a Silky Terrier, and don't hesitate to consult with your veterinarian if you have questions about your dog's specific needs or notice any signs of health issues.