what they are likeAustralian Silky Terrier temperament
A bright, lively little terrier that stays on the lookout and reacts quickly. It is warm and loyal with its family, a bit more independent than many toy breeds, and happy to announce visitors with a bark.123
how to spot oneAustralian Silky Terrier coat and colours
long single silky coat
A small, slightly long-bodied terrier with a wedge-shaped head, upright ears and a straight, fine, glossy coat that falls flat along a parting down the back. The hair should not reach the ground, and the feet and lower legs stay fairly clear of long hair. The crown carries a soft topknot.123
Coloursblue and tan (silver blue, pigeon blue or slate blue with rich tan)silver or fawn topknot126
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for an Australian Silky Terrier. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Hand strippingHand stripping keeps the harsh texture; clipping also worksevery 12 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year
how busy a day looksAustralian Silky Terrier exercise needs
Active but not tireless: the Royal Kennel Club suggests up to about 30 minutes of exercise a day, and it enjoys play and short outings.43
where they are happiestAustralian Silky Terrier at home
Adapts well to a flat or apartment as long as it gets daily walks and attention.4
who they like aroundAustralian Silky Terrier with people and other pets
Bred as a companion that enjoys being with people and getting attention; it may be vocal with strangers.43
the hands-on bitsAustralian Silky Terrier grooming and care
The silky coat needs brushing at least several times a week, ideally daily, to keep it smooth and free of tangles. It is a single, medium-length coat that sheds only lightly.43
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Australian Silky Terrier, and at what times?
Feed your adult Australian Silky Terrier at least two meals a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Consistent meal times help with digestion and house training. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.7
What should an Australian Silky Terrier eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A high-quality dog food suited for small breeds is a great choice. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, which are especially harmful to dogs. Always keep human treats away and consult your vet for a balanced diet.8
How often should I bathe an Australian Silky Terrier?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and general guidance recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets dirty or has skin issues, but avoid over-bathing to keep the coat healthy.9Pet Wiki plan
How often does an Australian Silky Terrier need brushing?
The silky coat needs daily brushing to stay smooth and tangle-free. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests brushing weekly, but daily is ideal for this breed. Regular brushing also helps reduce shedding.43Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim an Australian Silky Terrier's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every three weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain and bleeding. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.9Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does an Australian Silky Terrier need?
This lively terrier needs about 30 minutes of exercise daily, including walks and playtime. Pet Wiki's plan suggests daily walks and play to keep them happy and healthy. They adapt well to apartment life as long as they get attention and outings.43Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after an Australian Silky Terrier's teeth and ears?
Brush your dog's teeth daily if possible, or at least two to three times a week, using a dog-safe toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks and clean gently without inserting anything into the ear canal. Regular care prevents dental and ear issues.9Pet Wiki plan
How long does an Australian Silky Terrier live?
Australian Silky Terriers typically live 12 to 13 years, bringing many joyful years to your home. With good care, regular vet checkups, and a loving environment, they can enjoy a long, happy life.43
Is an Australian Silky Terrier good with children and other pets?
They are warm and loyal with their family but can be a bit independent and may bark at strangers. Their temperament with children and other pets varies, so it's best to ask a good breeder for guidance based on your household.123
Can an Australian Silky Terrier be left alone?
This breed enjoys being with people and may not like long periods alone. How well they handle solitude depends on the individual dog; ask a good breeder or vet for advice tailored to your situation.43
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
per year, in your countryWhat an Australian Silky Terrier costs
Running costs for an Australian Silky Terrier, built from current prices in each country: food scaled to the weight of the breed, insurance to its size, the rest per country. The purchase price and unplanned vet bills come on top.
Estimates from the sources linked on each line. Food: a complete dry food at about 3,600 kcal/kg at the NRC maintenance energy for the average weight of the breed. Insurance: a typical adult policy scaled by size; real quotes depend on breed, age and cover.
by countryIs the Australian Silky Terrier legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Australian Silky Terrier in the 61 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
Its first name was the Sydney Silky, after the city where early breeders kept it.4
2
In North America it is simply called the Silky Terrier, while most other countries use Australian Silky Terrier.3
3
Puppies are born dark and the blue colour should be settled by about 18 months of age.6
4
Although shown as a toy dog, it was originally kept to catch rodents and still has the terrier knack for it.4
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The breed was originally known as the Sydney Silky because it was primarily found in Sydney, Australia. Its official name became the Australian Silky Terrier in 1955.3
told by an Australian Silky TerrierA day in the life
I wake up to the sun peeking through the curtain, and I stretch my little legs. My human gives me a pat, and I wag my tail like crazy. After a quick brush of my silky coat, we head out for a short walk. I sniff every bush and greet the neighbor’s dog with a friendly bark. Back home, I chase my squeaky toy across the floor until I’m tired. Then I curl up on the soft rug, dreaming of tomorrow’s adventures. Life is good when you’re a Silky Terrier!
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
where it all beganAustralian Silky Terrier history
The breed came from crossing Australian Terriers with Yorkshire Terriers in the late 1800s, and early breeding around Sydney gave it the name Sydney Silky. For a while the three related terriers were not clearly separated, but crossing was discouraged after 1932 and the name Australian Silky Terrier became official in 1955. Returning American servicemen helped make it known in the USA after the Second World War.314
Yorkshire Terrier
Australian Terrier
Skye Terrier