Although a toy in size, the Silky Terrier has a true terrier personality – he is of sufficient substance to be able to hunt and kill domestic rodents. The general public occasionally confuses this breed with the Yorkie, but in reality, the Silky is larger and more closely related to the Australian Terrier. A friendly, joyful temperament and the lovely blue and tan coat make him an ideal companion.
A Look Back
Developed at the end of the 1800s in Australia, the Silky Terrier was created when a number of Yorkshire Terriers from England were brought into parts of Australia and bred to Australian Terrier bitches in an attempt to improve coat color in the blue and tan Australian Terrier. The resulting litters produced individuals shown as these three different breeds. The Silkys were then bred together until a recognized type was fixed.
Developed at the end of the 1800s in Australia, the Silky Terrier was created when a number of Yorkshire Terriers from England were brought into parts of Australia and bred to Australian Terrier bitches in an attempt to improve coat color in the blue and tan Australian Terrier. The resulting litters produced individuals shown as these three different breeds. The Silkys were then bred together until a recognized type was fixed.
Right Breed for You?
This portable pooch can adapt well to any living situation, but make sure you have the time to devote to them – they do not like to be ignored, preferring to play fetch or go on walks with their family. Silkys are keen and energetic, so it’s best to keep them occupied. The breed must also be bathed and brushed on a regular basis.
This portable pooch can adapt well to any living situation, but make sure you have the time to devote to them – they do not like to be ignored, preferring to play fetch or go on walks with their family. Silkys are keen and energetic, so it’s best to keep them occupied. The breed must also be bathed and brushed on a regular basis.
Source: American Kennel Club - www.akc.org
Grooming
General: The Silky Terrier has a silky single coat. Silkys require regular grooming at 4 – 8 week intervals to keep the coat mat free and in great shape as well as keep the nails clipped, ears clean, and check anal glands.
Brushing: Be sure to spray on the Aloe Hydrating Spray or apply Aloe Silk at the beginning of the brush out to add moisture and silk proteins to the coat, this adds elasticity to the coat and helps keep the coat from breaking..
Eyes: Optisoothe Eye Wash should be used to flush any foreign Eyes should be bright and clear.
Ears: Ear Care should be used regularly. Clean only as far as you can see inside the ear canal.
Bathing: First bathe with our Hypo Allergenic Coconut Shampoo, one of our Classic Care or Professional Care shampoo for a general dirt removal then target the specific need of the dog. Full coated dogs should use the Silky Show Shampoo and Silky Show Conditioner to add silk proteins to the coat and add elasticity to the coat and prevent breakage of the coat. Pets that have a normal coat can pick from any of the Scent Renewal shampoos that they will smell for the days to come. Be sure to follow up with a light weight conditioner to keep the coat in great shape.
Show dog tips: Quick Finish Styling Spray while drying the coat to help prevent breakage. Aloe Silk applied will keep the coat feeling soft and silky. Silky Show Shampoo and Silky Show Conditioner will add silk proteins and elasticity and a great shine to the coat. Bright White Shampoo will make the whites pop.
Tools: A brush and a comb are basic essentials to keep your Silky in tip top shape. After brushing you need to check the dog over with a metal comb to be sure the coat is mat free. Clipping the nails every 4 weeks will help keep the quick at proper length.
