Silkshire Terrier

Dog Breed Profile

Silkshire Terrier History

The Silky Terrier is a toy-sized terrier and one of the oldest known terrier breeds. The Silky was originally developed in England as a ratter and general farm pest exterminator. The Silky was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1979. The predecessor of the Silky was probably the Dandie Dinmont, a small, short-legged Scotch terrier. The Dandie Dinmont was crossed with the now-extinct now-extinct St. Bride’s and Bedlington Terriers in the mid-1800s. The offspring were called the “Silky-Dan”. The ancestors of the Silky-Dan eventually worked their way out to Australia, where they became the indigenous “Black and Tan”. The “Black and Tan” would eventually be mated with the Smooth Fox Terrier, creating the modern-day American Black and Tan Coonhound.

Time of Origin

Unknown

Country of Origin

Unknown

Ancestry

Australian Silky Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier

Silkshire Terrier Physical Characteristics

The Silkshire Terrier is a small, medium- sized terrier bred to hunt and kill rats. They are a distinctively long-legged breed that stands between 13 and 16 inches tall and weights between 17 and 22 pounds. They have a fox-like head with a muzzle that is longer than it is wide. Their ears are erect and rounded. Their body is compact and their tail is curled over their backs. They have short, fine hair that is silky to the touch. They have round eyes that are light brown in color. They generally get along well with children and other pets and are good family dogs.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Black

Coat Colors

Blue, Fawn, Black, Red

Height Range

Male Height Range: 7 – 11 inches

Female Height Range: 7 – 11 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 8 – 11 lbs

Female Weight Range: 8 – 11 lbs

Silkshire Terrier Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

12-15 yrs

Silkshire Terrier Health Concerns

Early Tooth Loss, Bone Fractures, Bronchitis, Digestive Problems, Patellar Luxation, Elbow Dysplasia, Intervertebral Disc Disease

Silkshire Terrier Temperament and Behaviour

The Silkshire Terrier is a lively, sweet-tempered, and active little dog. They are small, but brave, and make great watchdogs. They are naturally quite protective of their home and family, but tend to get along well with children and other small animals. They love being outside and play, and can be quite mischievous at times.

Silkshire Terrier Activity Requirements

Silkies, as they are affectionately known, are a small, cheerful terrier with a thick, silky coat. They are playful and outgoing, but also smart and devoted, which makes them a great companion. While a Silkie doesn’t need a lot of intense physical exercise, they do need regular walks in order to stay happy. A short, brisk stroll a few days a week is perfect for this energetic small dog.