Australian Silky Terrier
3.5-4.5 kg
23-26 cm at the shoulder
12-15 years
Australia
About the Australian Silky Terrier
The Australian Silky Terrier is a true 'refined' terrier, embodying a unique balance between a rugged working heritage and an elegant companion. Originating in the late 1800s, this breed was carefully developed by crossing the hardy Australian Terrier with the finer-boned Yorkshire Terrier. The result is a compact, alert dog with a signature floor-length, silky coat that lacks the woolly undercoat found in many other breeds, making them particularly distinct in the toy group. Despite their diminutive size, Silkies retain a robust 'big dog' personality. They are incredibly loyal to their families and possess a sharp intelligence that makes them highly adaptable to various living situations. While they enjoy the comforts of a lap, their history as vermin hunters means they remain energetic and curious, always ready for a walk or a game. They are quintessentially Australian: tough, spirited, yet remarkably sophisticated.
Australia’s elegant companion
The Australian Silky Terrier was developed in Australia in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily as a companion and small watchdog. Bred from crosses between Australian Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers, the Silky Terrier combined the alertness of a terrier with a refined, silky coat. The breed became popular as an elegant companion suited to both town and country living.
Recommended for: families, singles and seniors in apartments or suburban homes wanting an alert, affectionate companion.
Not ideal for: very young children or owners unprepared for the grooming needs of the silky coat.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Silky Terrier is a study in refined symmetry and spirited elegance. The breed standard demands a coat that is flat and fine, parted from the nose to the tail, shimmering with a distinct blue and tan lustre that catches the light during movement. They should exhibit a low-set, compact frame that suggests capability without coarseness. Their movement is free and light-footed, projecting a self-assured air and an ever-alert expression. What truly sets the Silky apart is this 'double identity'—they possess the sophisticated grace of a toy breed while maintaining the fiery, unwavering glint in the eye that identifies them as a true Australian terrier, capable and courageous.
In Australia
Developed in Australia in the late 19th century, the Australian Silky Terrier is a cross between the Australian Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier. This breed was developed specifically in Melbourne and specifically in Sydney, as stated by Dogs Victoria and Dogs NSW.
Bred For
Vermin control (hunting rats and snakes) and as a refined domestic companion.
Temperament
Keen, alert, courageous, and friendly; possesses the spirited nature of a terrier with the affectionate bond of a toy breed.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Exercise Needs
Moderate daily activity including 30-45 minutes of walking combined with indoor play and mental stimulation.
Grooming Needs
High; requires daily brushing to prevent matting of the long, fine coat and regular professional trimming.
Living Suitability
Excellent for apartment living or homes with small yards, provided they receive daily outdoor exercise and mental engagement.
Good with Kids
Best suited for homes with older, considerate children who understand how to handle a small dog gently.
Good with Other Pets
Generally good with other dogs if socialised early; however, their high prey drive may make them unsuitable for homes with small rodents or birds.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and quick to learn, though they can occasionally display a typical terrier independence; they respond best to positive reinforcement and variety.
Coat & Colours
Single coat, flat, fine, and silky in texture, following the contours of the body.. Blue and tan, or grey-blue and tan, with the blue reaching from the base of the skull to the tip of the tail.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be aware that the Silky Terrier, like many small breeds, is more likely to develop dental disease due to their small mouths and crowded teeth; regular dental checks and a diet that supports oral health are essential. They can be predisposed to patellar luxation (slipping kneecaps), so maintaining a healthy weight is vital to reduce joint stress. As a single-coated breed, they are more likely to be sensitive to extreme cold and may require a coat during winter walks. Their terrier heritage means they are predisposed to a spirited voice; they can be frequent barkers, alerting you to every passerby, which can be managed with consistent training and mental enrichment. Owners should also be mindful of their high prey drive, which might lead them to chase local wildlife or the family hamster. Additionally, they may experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, as they form very deep bonds with their humans. Many Silkies thrive on fresh, high-quality diets, as they can occasionally show sensitivities to the fillers and grains found in standard commercial kibble, which may manifest as skin irritations or digestive upset. Framing these traits as part of their devoted and alert nature makes them wonderful companions for those prepared for a bit of 'big dog' energy in a small, silky package.
Feeding Guide for Your Australian Silky Terrier
Healthy Weight
3.5-4.5 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
80-135 grams
For a typical adult weighing 4 kg, a fresh or raw diet should consist of approximately 80 to 120 grams per day, split into two meals. This should include lean muscle meat, crushed bone, and organ meat to ensure a balanced calcium-to-phosphorus ratio.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality, nutrient-dense diet rich in lean proteins and essential fatty acids to support coat health and maintain a healthy weight.
A balanced raw diet for an Australian Silky Terrier should focus on high-quality proteins such as Majestik’s lean Kangaroo or Chicken, which provide excellent energy without excessive fat. Incorporating small amounts of pureed leafy greens or berries can provide antioxidants for coat health. Given their predisposition to dental issues, small raw meaty bones like chicken necks can help maintain oral hygiene, though they must always be supervised during feeding.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Australian Silky Terrier Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Australian Silky Terrier? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
3-5 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.