The Silky terrier is one of the more delicate terriers. Silky terrriers are affectionate, smart, and alert animals. Although they are lapdogs, they do have quite a bit of energy and will demand great attention from you. Here are some things to know about the Silky terrrier before you go out and buy one of these cute creatures.
- Physical Characteristics. Also called the Sidney Terrier, this pooch is long-haired, short-legged, and lightly built. The head structure is flat and wide between the ears, and the nose and eyes are black. Although they are small-framed-measuring up to around 10 inches in height-they are sturdy dogs.
- Disposition. The Silky, like other terriers, can be willful. However, the dominating characteristics of the Silky’s temperament are curiosity and sociability. These pets are voracious diggers, love to sprint back and forth in the house chasing toys, and tend to get their little paws into mischief with their curious attitude. Silkys have been known to perform digging activities in couches, explore a sock drawer or two, and get their noses into the trash if kept too low to the ground. Though they are initially reserved around strangers, once a Silky warms up to a person, expect that pooch to get so bold as to jump directly onto that person’s lap! The Silky, like most terriers, can be a barker and because of this, is a great watchdog. Easily trained, these dogs are good around children for the most part, but can become snippy if they are handled too roughly. They are not particularly sociable with other types of animals, so do not try introducing a cat into a home where a Silky lives.
- Physical Needs: Exercise. The Silky is true exerciser. They need daily walks in addition to plenty of time to run and play. Inside they will remain relatively inactive and calm, but if not given enough exercise, they may become belligerent and bratty.
- Physical Needs: Space. Silky terriers are great apartment pets. They are very active indoors, and do not need the large open spaces that some of their terrier counterparts need.
- Physical Needs: Food. Consult your vet for advice on the best food for your Silky. Their teeth and jaws are very sturdy so don’t worry, they will be just fine eating big dog kibble.
- Physical Needs: Grooming. The Silky’s coat is one of the more demanding of all terriers. It is highly prone to tangling and matting. It must be combed daily in order to avoid a bad hair day. Trimming is needed too, on occasion. It is a good idea to get a trusted groomer to perform bimonthly or monthly services to your terrier.
- Physical Needs: Sleeping Quarters. Silky Terriers must have an indoor sleeping area. Unlike the Patterdale, Silkys are sensitive to the cold. Silkys do well in crates, on dog beds, or, as the case with many Silkys, in their owner’s bed.
- Health Considerations. Silky Terriers are healthy dogs for the most part. They are prone to intervertebral disc disease. This disorder occurs when there is excess pressure on the spinal cord by disc material that herniates underneath the cord. Diabetes is another prevalent disorder in older Silkys.
- Life Expectancy. The Silky’s life expectancy is 12-15 years.
The Silky takes, arguably, the best aspects of the terrier group. Intelligent, alert, curious, and dainty all at once, this pet is a great one for the single person, a married couple, or a family. It is both a great apartment dog and a wonderful traveler. The Silky is adaptable and sociable-an all-around excellent choice for a variety of folks who enjoy little dogs.