Silky Terrier — breed guide

At a glance

Group

toy

Size

Toy

Weight

4–5 kg (9–11 lb)

Life span

13–15 years

Coat

Fine, glossy, silky

Living with a Silky Terrier

• High energy — needs real exercise every day, not a stroll.
• Heavy grooming — frequent brushing and regular trims.
• Light shedding.
• Trainable with consistency.
• Barks readily.
• Good with children.
• Gets along with other dogs.
• Not a safe bet with cats — this is prey drive rather than a training problem.
• Suits apartment living, given its daily walks.
• Better with previous experience behind you.
• Average heat tolerance.
• Feels the cold.

Temperament

Bold · Curious · Busy · Chatty

Health to watch

• Luxating patella
• Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
• Tracheal collapse

Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.

Questions people ask

Is a Silky Terrier good with kids?

Generally yes. Silky Terriers are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.

Is a Silky Terrier good with cats?

Usually not. This is prey drive rather than a training problem — a cat that runs can trigger it in a dog that is otherwise impeccably behaved.

How much exercise does a Silky Terrier need?

An hour or more of proper exercise every day.

Can a Silky Terrier handle hot weather?

About average — use normal hot-day sense.