The Silky Terrier From The Land Down Under
Originally developed and made famous in Australia, the Silky Terrier is among the small dog group that is gaining popularity among breeders around the world. In North America, this dog is known as the Silky Terrier but in Australia and throughout the globe, it is known as the Australian Silky Terrier or the Sidney Terrier.
This Australian breed is highly praised for being affectionate, highly intelligent, brave and alert. Although small, this breed does not conform to the idea that it is only a placid lapdog. The Silky Terrier is bursting with energy and actually makes a good watchdog.
The breed is also very animated, full of zeal and loves to dig dirt for a hobby. It is highly inquisitive and loves to know and learn about things it finds amusing or interesting. Playing around and just being active with small short runs and plays makes this dog happy.
When it comes to training, this dog does not like to beat around the bush as it wants the training straightforward. It is highly biddable, quick and very eager to learn making each training a fast one and interesting. This dog can happily strive in an apartment living because it can satisfyingly get active indoors with only a few minutes of daily walks around the neighborhood.
Gifted with a well-boned body, the adorable Silky Terrier stands moderately low with only 9 to 10 inches of height to boot. Its ears animatedly stand erect and v-shaped while its tail is often docked. The nose is black and the eyes are round, dark and suggest an intense expression.
Their bodies are draped with 5 to 6 inches of fine, shiny and smooth long hair. The hair is center-parted at the back, draping down but does not reach the floor and they have no undercoat and sheds very little. They often come in colors of blue and fire red, or blue with tan patterns; and that all Silky Terries are born black.
To keep the Silky’s hair at its best, regular grooming is needed such as daily brushing or combing and regular baths. Its coat should also be trimmed regularly in order to keep it healthy and neat. Most Silky Terriers have hair on top of their heads that covers the eyes so it is best to tie this in a topknot.
The development of the Silky was contributed by other terriers and they are the Skye, Cairn, Yorkshire and Australian terrier. This breed reached the US because some US servicemen from Australia during WWII brought them over to the US. In 1959, the Silky became an official breed in the AKC and in 1962, its first breed standard had been established.
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