Pet Wiki

Australian Silky Terrier

Also called Silky Terrier, Sydney Silky, Silky

A bright, lively little terrier that stays on the lookout and reacts quickly.

SizeToy
Height23 to 26 cm (9 to 10 in)123
Lifespan12 to 13.3 years43
CoatLong single silky coat
OriginAustralia (Sydney).135
GroupFCI group 3
Recognised breedShort profile
alert and quick to respond
friendly and affectionate with its people
plenty of terrier spirit in a toy-sized body
263

Personality what they are like

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

Coat and looks how to spot one

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

The care rhythm a typical week and year

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

Daily activity how busy a day looks

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

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The silky coat needs daily brushing to keep it smooth and free of tangles; it is a medium-length coat that does shed.43

Home where they are happiest

Adapts well to a flat or apartment as long as it gets daily walks and attention.4

Company who they like around

Bred as a companion that enjoys being with people and getting attention; it may be vocal with strangers.43

The story where it all began

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

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Its first name was the Sydney Silky, after the city where early breeders kept it.4

  2. 2

    In North America it is simply called the Silky Terrier, while most other countries use Australian Silky Terrier.3

  3. 3

    Puppies are born dark and the blue colour should be settled by about 18 months of age.6

  4. 4

    Although shown as a toy dog, it was originally kept to catch rodents and still has the terrier knack for it.4

Where the name comes from the story behind it

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

Name ideas for your new friend

MiloDaisyCocoMaxLunaCharlieRubyJackZoeArchieBellaTeddy

A day in the life told by an Australian Silky Terrier

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.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 236, Group 3 Terriers, Section 4 Toy Terriers; standard dated 08.10.2012.1
AKC
Recognised as the Silky Terrier in 1959; Toy Group. Standard approved 10 October 1989.3
ANKC
Recognised in 1958, Toy Group.3
UKC
Recognised in 1965, Terrier Group.6
The Royal Kennel Club
Listed in the Toy Group as Australian Silky Terrier.4

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

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

Owner questions the things everyone asks

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.9 Pet 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.43 Pet 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.9 Pet 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.43 Pet 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.9 Pet 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.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. FCI Standard No. 236 Australian Silky Terrier fci.beused for recognition, origin, height, coat, colours, temperament, history
  2. AKC Official Standard of the Silky Terrier images.akc.orgused for height, coat, colours, temperament
  3. Wikipedia: Australian Silky Terrier en.wikipedia.orgused for history, recognition dates, lifespan, temperament
  4. The Royal Kennel Club: Australian Silky Terrier royalkennelclub.comused for exercise, grooming, lifespan, home size, history
  5. AKC: Silky Terrier akc.orgused for origin, group
  6. UKC Silky Terrier breed standard ukcdogs.comused for UKC recognition, colours, temperament
  7. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  8. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  9. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.