Australian Silky Terrier
Breed Profile
Group: Toy
Colour: Blue and tan, grey-blue and tan
Lifespan: 14 to 16 years
Australian Silky Terrier are energetic,courageous and friendly.
Owner's Guide
Energetic, alert and lively, Australian Silky Terriers make excellent watchdogs and care is needed to prevent their barking becoming excessive. They are friendly, responsive and playful.
Originally bred to be a watchdog and to kill rats and mice.
Special characteristics
This dog is alert, reactive and playful.
Exercise requirements
Medium. Busy both at home and outside.
Attitude to
owners affectionate, independent
children good, puppies are very small and may be injured by young children
other pets may be problematic with small pets
strangers friendly
unfamiliar dogs good if well socialized
Perfect owner
Active, confident owner who will enjoy this dog's independent spirit and will be able to provide exercise, play and activities to keep this busy dog occupied.
Potential problems
May bark excessively. Tends to snap if frustrated or excited.
The silky coat needs careful daily brushing to prevent mats from forming. There is no undercoat so the dog may be cold in winter
Unlike those of the Yorkshire Terrier, the ears of the Australian Silky Terrier are free from long hair.
Articles

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- Q: My terrier has a red rash on her underbelly, can you suggest something to soothe it?
- A: The best course of action would be to make an appointment with your veterinary surgeon to have the rash examined. The rash may be a contact reaction to something she has laid down on, or it may be an allergy... More »
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- Dog Breeds in the Toy Group
- There are small dogs in most of the groups, but the dogs in the Toy Group are the smallest. With their baby size and charming expressions, they are appealing to everybody. More »
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