Australian Silky Terrier
The Australian Silky Terrier is a small yet characterful breed developed in Australia during the late nineteenth century.
Created by crossing imported Yorkshire Terriers with the Australian Terrier, it was refined as a companion dog whilst retaining the alert, hardy qualities of its working terrier heritage.
4-5kg
Weight
Small
Size
12-14yrs
Lifespan
About the Australian Silky Terrier
Standing between 19 and 23 centimetres tall and weighing around 4–5 kilograms, this compact dog is instantly recognisable by its long, fine, glossy coat that typically displays blue and tan colouring. The silky texture requires regular brushing to maintain its condition and prevent tangles. In temperament, the Australian Silky Terrier is bold, quick and curious, displaying the confidence and alertness characteristic of the terrier group. Despite its toy classification, it is far removed from a typical lap dog and retains genuine working instincts. The breed is intelligent and loyal, typically bonding closely with one family member whilst remaining affectionate with others. It enjoys children it has been raised with and responds well to firm, consistent training. Energetic for its size, it requires up to 30 minutes of daily exercise and interactive play. The Australian Silky Terrier makes a devoted companion for those willing to meet its grooming requirements and appreciate its spirited, inquisitive nature.
Australian Silky Terrier at a Glance
- Group
- Toy
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 4–5 kg
- Height
- 19–23 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Medium
- Sheds
- Yes
- Exercise
- Up to 30 minutes per day
- Typical price
- £800–£1500
Australian Silky Terrier Temperament
The Australian Silky Terrier is a spirited, alert and loyal breed with the bold character of a terrier in a compact body. It typically bonds most closely with one family member, while remaining friendly and affectionate with the rest. It enjoys children it has been raised with, but prefers to be treated as an equal rather than a toy. Though classified as a toy breed, it is far removed from a typical lap dog and is just as capable of protecting a home from pests as any working terrier. Intelligent and quick-witted, it trains well with a firm, consistent approach.
Australian Silky Terrier Lifestyle
The Australian Silky Terrier can live happily in a flat or apartment and benefits from access to a small or medium-sized garden. They suit both urban and rural settings.
Dog Food for Australian Silky Terrier
Top-rated foods for Small breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Recommended Food for Australian Silky Terrier
Australian Silky Terrier Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Australian Silky Terrier weighing around 5 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£1.27 - £1.36
Per month
£38 - £41
Per year
£465 - £496
Australian Silky Terrier Characteristics
The Australian Silky Terrier benefits from regular walks and some off-lead time and is easy to train. They are one of the most child-friendly breeds you'll find and are among the more independent breeds and cope well without constant company. The coat is manageable with a regular brushing routine and sheds steadily throughout the year. Exceptionally clever, they thrive when given jobs to do or puzzles to solve.
Australian Silky Terrier Pros & Cons
Pros
- Loyal and affectionate companions with a friendly, sharp mind
- Love being at home with their people and thrive on human interaction
- Despite their small size, they make alert and effective little watchdogs
- Well suited to first-time dog owners thanks to their trainability
Cons
- Can suffer from separation anxiety and dislike being left alone
- May develop small dog syndrome if boundaries aren't set early
- Tend to be vocal and will bark frequently without early training
- A high prey drive means secure containment and recall training are important
