Height: 9-10 inches
Weight: 8-10 lbs.
Life Span: 14-16 yrs.
Breed Group: Companion Dogs
Overview
Silkies are intelligent, energetic, curious, and perpetually in motion.
They do well in obedience training as long as their owners are able to maintain
dominance. Some silkies are friendly with strangers, others are reserved.
They may be nippy with other dogs and with people who handle their possessions.
Because they like to chase cats and other small animals, silkies should
be allowed to run off-leash only in secured areas. Their bark serves as
a good alarm but can become a nuisance if not kept under control.
Appearance
The silky's straight, glossy coat is five to six inches long, and is parted
from the head to the base of the tail. Coat color is blue and tan with a
prominent topknot that may be silver or fawn.
Grooming & Exercise Needs
The silky needs to be brushed and combed two to three times a week and trimmed
every three months. A few brisk walks each day as well as a play period
are necessary to satisfy this dog.
Origins
The silky terrier originated in the 19th century in Australia, the result
of a cross between the Australian terrier and the Yorkshire terrier.
Breed-related health concerns: storage disease (a fatal nervous system
disorder), yeast dermatitis (a skin infection), elbow dysplasia, tracheal
collapse, patellar luxation, Legg-Perthes disease.
Reference: AKC - American Kennel Club |
