Australian Silky Terrier

About the breed

From Sydney: a cross of two terriers

The Australian Silky Terrier was developed in Australia, specifically around Sydney, at the turn of the 20th century by crossing the Yorkshire Terrier with the Australian Terrier. Breeders wanted a smaller companion dog that kept the working terrier nature and silky coat look of the Yorkshire Terrier, while being somewhat hardier and less delicate than its Yorkshire relative. The FCI lists the breed under Standard No. 236, while the AKC places it in the Toy Group — though in temperament it remains very much a true terrier, setting it apart from many other breeds in that group.

Small body, big character

Despite its compact, elegant build, the Australian Silky Terrier is a lively, alert, self-assured dog with genuine terrier spirit. It's a watchful companion, quick to announce any unusual sound or visitor, while staying deeply attached to its family and enjoying their company. Its curiosity and energy often outpace its small frame, which is why many owners describe it as "a big dog in a small body." It likes being at the center of things and doesn't do well left alone for long stretches.

A hunting instinct in a small package

The breed was originally bred partly for hunting rats and other vermin, so that prey drive remains part of its character despite its size. That means it may take off after rodents or birds on a walk, which is why a securely fenced space for off-leash play is welcome. On leash, it's worth expecting sudden lunges toward anything that moves like prey.

The silky coat and what it demands

The long, straight, silky coat needs brushing several times a week to prevent tangling, plus professional grooming roughly every 6 to 8 weeks. Compared with some other long-coated breeds the upkeep is manageable, but it isn't negligible — the coat has no undercoat, so it sheds less but tangles and picks up dirt more easily. During walks it's worth regularly checking the coat on the paws and behind the ears, where tangles form most often.

Training a stubborn terrier

The Australian Silky Terrier is bright and learns quickly, but like most terriers it can turn stubborn without consistent training. Calm, positive, regular training from puppyhood helps keep excessive barking in check and prevents stubborn habits from taking hold. Early socialization with unfamiliar people and dogs also reduces the risk of overly wary or defensive behavior later in life.

Children, other dogs, and cats

The breed is generally friendly toward children who know how to handle it respectfully, while rough handling from small kids can trigger a defensive reaction. It's usually sociable with other dogs, while its relationship with cats and smaller pets depends on early socialization because of its retained prey drive; many dogs of this breed get along fine with a cat they grow up alongside. Around larger, unfamiliar dogs, supervision is recommended given its small size, to avoid injury.

Life in an apartment

Thanks to its small size and moderate exercise needs, the Australian Silky Terrier is one of the better terrier choices for apartment living, given daily walks and chances to play. Without enough activity it can become restless or overly vocal, since despite its size this is an energetic breed that also needs mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys.

Health and life expectancy

This is a relatively healthy, long-lived breed with a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. As with other small breeds, patellar luxation (a slipping kneecap) and dental issues are more commonly seen, so regular veterinary checkups are recommended, along with regular teeth cleaning, since smaller breeds tend to build up tartar faster. Tear staining beneath the eyes is also common in the breed, as in many small breeds, and its appearance is eased by regularly cleaning the area around the eyes.

Pros & cons