Aussie Silk Terrier

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Aussie Silk Terrier

6-12 lbs

8-10"

Various

Australian Terrier

Silky Terrier

Aussie Silk Terriers are categorized as a “toy” breed and are a mix between purebred Australian Terriers and Silky Terriers. Aussie Silk Terriers are bred to be companion dogs because of their small size, as well as loyal and lovable “big dog” personalities. This breed is playful, intelligent, and full of character. Though they are small, Aussie Silk Terriers are high energy and require regular exercise and mental stimulation. The breed is known to be occasionally “yappy” like a Silky Terrier, but more laid back (in the Terrier world) like an Australian Terrier. Like many small dogs, they have a relatively long average life span of 12 to 15 years, and have long, straight coats that require regular clipping, washing and brushing.

                
                Purpose
              
Companion, herding

                Date of Origin
              
Recent

                Ancestry
              
Australian Shepherd, Miniature Australian Shepherd, Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Aussie Silk Terrier Health

Average Size

Height: 8-10 inches Weight: 6-12 lbs

Major Concerns

Patellar Luxation
Intervertebral Disc Disease
Hydrocephalus
Tracheal Collapse
Diabetes
Legg-Calve Perthes Disease

Minor Concerns

Cataracts
Persistent Pupillary Membrane
Cryptorchidism

Occasional Tests

X-Rays
Eye Examination
CT or MRI scan
Blood Glucose Tests

Aussie Silk Terrier Breed History

The name Aussie Silk Terrier is a combination of the nicknames of its two parent breeds, the Australian or “Aussie” Terrier and Silky or “Silk” Terrier. The two breeds are very similar in personality, appearance (except for coat texture), and origin. Australian Terriers are thought to have been developed from a mix of European Terrier breeds as companion and guard dogs in Tasmania during the mid-1800s. They first gained popularity in Melbourne, Australia, but soon made their way into British homes by the late 1800s. In 1925, Australian Terriers came to the United States where they were recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1960. The Silky Terrier has a complicated history. It was bred in two parts of Australia, which led to classification confusion in the early to mid-1900s. It is known to have the adventurous tendencies of its close relative, the Yorkshire Terrier. Originally known as the Sydney Silky Terrier, its name was changed to Australian Silky Terrier in 1955. Eventually, its name was changed again, simply to the Silky Terrier, and was recognized by the AKC that same year. Both the Australian and the Silky Terrier are well known for their intelligence and ability to kill small animals such as snakes and vermin. As a hybrid breed, the Aussie Silk Terrier is relatively new and there is no exact date of origin for it. This breed is not yet widespread or extremely popular, but it is celebrated among Terrier fans for its likeable “big dog” personality.

Aussie Silk Terrier Breed Appearance

The Aussie Silk Terrier is low to the ground and longer than it is tall. It is compact, yet agile enough to be an effective vermin hunter. This breed is categorized as a “toy” with an average weight of 8 to 10 pounds and average height of 9 to 10 inches. It has upright, triangle-shaped ears, an alert expression, and short tapered muzzle. The Aussie Silk Terrier has small, cat-like feet and an erect, high-set tail. Its silky coat is straight and long. Generally, Aussie Silk Terriers are either silver and tan or black and tan with the ends of their coat being the darker color.

Aussie Silk Terrier Breed Maintenance

The Aussie Silk Terrier has a long, odorless coat that is like human hair. Because of its long coat, many owners get their pets groomed on a regular basis. Others, however, clip around the eyes, ears, and paws on their own for easy maintenance. Regardless, Aussie Silk Terriers should be bathed every couple of weeks, including shampoo and conditioning. Additionally, because of the coat’s length, it is prone to tangles and matting. Daily brushing will reduce a messy coat and help Aussie Silk Terriers maintain their shine. As with all dogs, owners should brush their Aussie Silk Terrier’s teeth daily and clip their nails once or twice a month.

Aussie Silk Terrier Activity Requirements

Aussie Silk Terriers are known for having a lot of character and a “big dog” personality. They are generally energetic, intelligent, and territorial. If they are not entertained enough, Aussie Silk Terriers will bark or become hyperactive. Additionally, Aussie Silk Terriers enjoy exploring and will often chase or dig in their pursuit of adventure. This breed has strong guarding instincts, like their Silky Terrier parent, and can be high strung around strangers, small children, and other dogs. However, these traits are softened by its Australian Terrier lineage, which is known to be relatively more adaptive than many Terrier breeds. Because the Aussie Silk Terrier is so smart, it is very receptive to training, particularly at a young age. It will learn commands, routines, and tricks quickly, but also has a reputation for being stubborn and mischievousness at times. Overall, the Aussie Silk Terrier is a sweet and loyal companion – but one that can be headstrong.

Aussie Silk Terrier Owner Experiences

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