Silky Cairn History
The Silky Terrier is a breed of small terrier developed in Australia. It is also known as the Australian Silky Terrier or Cairns, after its country of origin, Queensland, Australia. The Silky is a smooth-coated version of the Cairns, and is larger than the more common Rough-Coated variety. It is believed to be a naturally occurring hybrid of the Smooth Fox Terrier and the Australian Terrier, although some assert it to be a specifically Australian creation. The smooth coat of the silky is short and smooth, tipping the scales at 5-6 kg (11-13 lbs). The coat of the rough coated is longer and rougher, tipping the scale at 5-7 kg (11-15 lbs). The silky has a fox-like appearance, with a long wedge-shaped head, erect ears, and a dark muzzle. The eyes are almond shaped and medium in size. The nose is black. The legs are straight and muscular. The tail is long and tapering, carried high, and docked at 2–3 inches. The coat of this breed is water-repellent and sheds little. The silkies are devoted companions. They are happy, affectionate, and make great watch dogs. They can get along well with strangers, and they do not bark excessively. The silky is intelligent and quick to learn. It is highly energetic and needs lots of exercise.
Silky Cairn Physical Characteristics
The Silky Cairn is a small, short-haired breed of dogs that come in two varieties: Smooth and Wirehaired. They typically have a head shaped like a fox, with ears that stand up and wide-set eyes. Their coats are silky, soft and fine and can come in many different colors, including sable, white, blue, brindle, fawn and merle. The Smooth version of the breed is generally regarded as “the better” of the two, but both are ideal for any family.
Eye Colors
Hazel, Brown
Nose Colors
Black
Coat Colors
Black, Brown, Cream, Fawn, Gray, Blue, White, Silver, Brindle
Height Range
Male Height Range: 11 – 14 inches
Female Height Range: 11 – 14 inches
Weight Range
Male Weight Range: 9 – 10 lbs
Female Weight Range: 9 – 10 lbs
Silky Cairn Health
Description of breed health.
Lifespan
13-15 yrs
Silky Cairn Health Concerns
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, Mitral Valve Dysplasia, Craniomandibular Osteopathy (Lion Jaw), Patellar Luxation, Cataracts, Glaucoma, Hemophilia, Pyruvate Kinase (PK) Deficiency, Atopy
Silky Cairn Temperament and Behaviour
The Silky Cairn is an energetic, playful, and good-natured dog that makes a great companion. They are loving and loyal to their families and are great with kids. Due to their high energy levels, they will require plenty of exercise.
Silky Cairn Activity Requirements
Silkies are small, playful, and energetic, making them great companions for both children and adults. They need a daily walk or some playtime to keep them happy. Silkies are a hypoallergenic dog that doesn’t require much grooming and does well in small spaces. They are a low-maintenance, high-energy breed that makes a great pet for families with children and other pets.
Miles Per Day
10 miles
Activity Per Day
60 minutes
Daily Food
1 cups
Kennel Club Recognition
American Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Silky Cairn is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the American Kennel Club website.
The Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Silky Cairn is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Kennel Club website.
Australian National Kennel Council
Not Recognized
Silky Cairn is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.
Canadian Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Silky Cairn is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.
