Aussie Silk Terriers are a mix between Australian Terriers and Silky Terriers, making them a “toy” breed. They are small in size but have a big and loving personality, making them perfect as companion animals. This breed is known for being lively, perceptive, and full of character. Despite being small, they have a lot of energy and require regular physical exercise and mental stimulation. While they can occasionally be “yappy” like Silky Terriers, they are generally more laid-back compared to Australian Terriers. They have a lifespan of about 12 to 15 years and require regular grooming to maintain their long, straight coats.
In summary, Aussie Silk Terriers are adorable and affectionate companions. They have a mix of traits from both Australian Terriers and Silky Terriers, making them lively and perceptive with a laid-back nature. Despite their small size, they have high energy levels and need regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their long coats require frequent grooming to keep them looking their best.
Below, we look at Aussie Silk Terrier dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Aussie Silk Terrier, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and a lot more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Aussie Silk Terriers!
Dog Breed | Aussie Silk Terrier |
Size | Small |
Weight | 6-12 lbs (average) |
Height | 8-10″ (average) |
Location | Various |
Ancestry | Australian Shepherd, Miniature Australian Shepherd, Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
Date of Origin | Recent |
Group | Companion, Herding |
Life Expectancy | 11-15 years |
Price | $600 – $800 |
Family | Canidae |
Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The Aussie Silk Terrier gets its name from its parent breeds, the Australian Terrier and Silky Terrier. These two breeds are quite similar in terms of their personality, appearance (except for their coat texture), and origin. Australian Terriers were developed in Tasmania during the mid-1800s as companions and guard dogs. They gained popularity in Melbourne, Australia and later made their way to British homes. In 1925, they were brought to the United States and recognized by the AKC in 1960.
On the other hand, the Silky Terrier has a more complex history. It was bred in different parts of Australia, leading to confusion in its classification in the early to mid-1900s. It shares the adventurous nature of its close relative, the Yorkshire Terrier. Originally known as the Sydney Silky Terrier, its name was changed to Australian Silky Terrier in 1955 and later simplified to Silky Terrier. The AKC recognized this breed in the same year.
Both the Australian and Silky Terrier are known for their intelligence and ability to hunt small animals like snakes and vermin. The Aussie Silk Terrier, as a hybrid breed, is relatively new and its exact origin date is unknown. While it may not be widely spread or extremely popular, it is highly regarded among Terrier enthusiasts for its friendly and sociable personality, giving it a “big dog” charm.
🐕 Aussie Silk Terrier Appearance
The Aussie Silk Terrier is longer than it is tall, and it is low to the ground. Although it is little, it is nevertheless nimble enough to be a successful vermin hunter. With an average weight of 8 to 10 pounds and an average height of 9 to 10 inches, this breed is referred to as a “toy”. It has short tapering nose, alert look, and erect, triangular-shaped ears. Small, cat-like paws and an upright, high-set tail are features of the Aussie Silk Terrier. It has a straight, lengthy, silken coat. Aussie Silk Terriers typically have darker-colored endings to their coats that are either silver and tan or black and tan.
👀 Eye Color | Varies |
🐽 Nose Color | N/A |
🐕 Coat Color | Ranges |
⚡ Fun Fact: Aussie Silk Terrier dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn’t tolerate being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Aussie Silk Terrier
We are reviewing and looking at the data related to the temperament, behavior, and traits of this dog breed. Please stay tuned for our update available shortly.
🤝 Are Aussie Silk Terriers Friendly or Aggressive?
Aussie Silk Terriers tend to have difficulties getting along with other pets and may not be the most cat-friendly or dog-friendly dogs. However, they are generally friendly towards strangers and are considered kid-friendly, making them a good choice for families with children. On the other hand, if you have multiple dogs or enjoy participating in dog meetups, the Aussie Silk Terrier may not be the best fit. Additionally, this breed is often recommended for elderly people.
This breed is known for being:
- Alert
- Courageous
- Intelligent
- Friendly
- Responsive
- Loyal
- Quick
- Outright
- Tempered
- Joyful
- Inquisitive
- Companionable
- Spirited
🐩 Aussie Silk Terrier Care & Maintenance
Long and odorless, the Aussie Silk Terrier’s coat resembles human hair. Many pet owners often groom their dogs because of their lengthy coats. For simpler care, some people opt to independently trim the area surrounding the eyes, ears, and paws. In any case, Aussie Silk Terriers require biweekly baths that include shampoo and conditioning. The length of the coat also makes it more likely to mat and tangle. Daily brushing will keep Aussie Silk Terriers’ shiny coats from becoming unkempt. Like any dogs, Aussie Silk Terrier owners should regularly trim their pets’ nails and wash their teeth.
Aussie Silk Terrier dogs are known for their minimal to no shedding. This means that if you have a puppy from this breed, you don’t have to worry about your furniture or car being covered in dog hair. They are an excellent choice for people who cannot tolerate excessive shedding. Additionally, these dogs only need to be bathed every 4-6 weeks, making them relatively low maintenance in terms of grooming.
🍖 Food: We recommend few cups daily, costing you about $0.49 – $1.49 daily, or around $30.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Aussie Silk Terrier dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly few miles per week, which equates to about 15 – 35 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Aussie Silk Terrier dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn’t the perfect choice for you.
❤️🩹 Aussie Silk Terrier Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Aussie Silk Terrier Dog Breed can be:
- Patellar Luxation
- Intervertebral Disc Disease
- Hydrocephalus
- Tracheal Collapse
- Diabetes
- Legg-Calve Perthes Disease
While minor concerns include:
- Cataracts
- Persistent Pupillary Membrane
- Cryptorchidism
🤧 Important: Is Aussie Silk Terrier hypoallergenic? Yes.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Aussie Silk Terrier.
⚡ Aussie Silk Terrier Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Aussie Silk Terrier a great choice for families with young children?
The Aussie Silk Terrier is a great choice for families with young children because they are small in size, making them less likely to accidentally knock over or intimidate young kids. Additionally, they are known for their loyal and lovable personalities, which make them excellent companions for children.
Is the Aussie Silk Terrier breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
Yes, the Aussie Silk Terrier breed is considered a suitable breed for apartment living. Their small size allows them to adapt well to living in smaller spaces, as long as they receive regular exercise and mental stimulation.
How much exercise does a Aussie Silk Terrier require compared to other breeds?
Compared to other breeds, the Aussie Silk Terrier requires moderate exercise. They are high energy dogs that need regular playtime and walks to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
Is the Aussie Silk Terrier breed known for being good with other pets?
Aussie Silk Terriers can get along with other pets if properly socialized from a young age. However, like Silky Terriers, they may display occasional “yappy” behavior, which might need to be addressed when introducing them to other pets.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Aussie Silk Terrier?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Aussie Silk Terrier include the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Bichon Frise. These breeds have similar size, temperament, and grooming needs.
What are the common health issues that Aussie Silk Terriers are prone to?
Common health issues that Aussie Silk Terriers are prone to include patellar luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, and dental problems. Regular veterinary check-ups and dental care are essential to maintain their overall health.
Are Aussie Silk Terriers known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Aussie Silk Terriers are generally intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train compared to some other breeds. Consistent positive reinforcement methods work well with them.
Are Aussie Silk Terriers more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Like many small companion breeds, Aussie Silk Terriers can be prone to separation anxiety if not properly trained and socialized. It is important to gradually acclimate them to being alone and provide them with mental stimulation and toys to alleviate any anxiety.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Aussie Silk Terrier that are suitable for people with allergies?
If allergies are a concern, some dog breeds similar to the Aussie Silk Terrier that are suitable for people with allergies include the Maltese, the Bichon Frise, and the Yorkshire Terrier. These breeds have hypoallergenic coats that produce fewer allergens.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Aussie Silk Terrier are best for individuals or families with limited space?
For individuals or families with limited space, smaller dog breeds similar in size to the Aussie Silk Terrier, such as the Shih Tzu, the Pomeranian, and the French Bulldog, can be a good choice.
Is the Aussie Silk Terrier breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Aussie Silk Terrier breed is known to be good with children in general, but it is important to supervise interactions and teach children how to properly handle and respect dogs. They can be a great fit for children with special needs, as they are affectionate and adaptable.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Aussie Silk Terrier?
In terms of grooming and shedding, the Aussie Silk Terrier requires regular clipping, washing, and brushing to maintain their long, straight coat. They are moderate shedders, so frequent brushing can help minimize loose hair around the house compared to heavy-shedding breeds.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Aussie Silk Terrier dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.