Silky Terrier Dog Breed Health Issues, History, Grooming and Temperament

Description: The Silky Terrier is something of a low set dog, with small bones and a tail nearly as long their body, although this is commonly docked, except in Europe where the practice of docking is illegal except for medical reasons. Whilst these dogs are short their hair is quite long reaching most of the way to the ground. Standing some 9-10 inches tall and weighing 8-11 pounds, with the male dogs being slightly larger than the female bitch. Their hair is a single coat and some five to 6 inches long, and can come in a variety of shades of red, blue, or tan, and is traditionally with a centre parting.

History: The Silky Terrier was first bred by crossing the Australian Terrier with the Yorkshire terrier, in the late 19th century. The reason behind this breeding was to improve the colour of their coat. The Australian Terrier and silky Terrier were considered of the same breed, in 1955 it came about that the breed was separated, and the silky Terrier of today was officially born. The AKC first recognized this breed in 1959. However, a standard was not set until 1962, and in 1967 the standard was updated. Originally bred to be a pet only, they are very swift and have been known to hunt and catch rodents.

Temperament: Whilst being intelligent, sociable and affectionate, the Silky Terrier breed is surprisingly courageous for its size and being sturdy, may well surprise you as to what they will stand up against. They are quite clever and active, and for their size can put on a relatively good turn of speed. They are quite happy diggers, and love to be part of all the activities in the home. Training is essential and you need to assert yourself over your dog in a firm and gentle manner, or small dog syndrome will be your price. Very good with small children, and large children alike, as long as the dog is aware of its place within the hierarchy. Unfortunately silky Terriers are not to be trusted with non-canine pets, especially those that are smaller than them. Training of these dogs is fairly straightforward as they are eager learners. Whilst being docile, they do make a good watchdog alerting you to anything unusual.

Health issues: The Silky Terrier are considered a healthy breed living some 12 to 15 years. However, there are some minor health concerns. The risk of diabetes and epilepsy is not unknown, tracheal collapse has also occurred in some of this breed. Because of their short legs and long body, they can also suffer with disc problems in their back. The, fairly normal, elbow and knee problems can also occur in the Silky Terrier.

Grooming: As it has long hair the Silky Terrier is prone to matting and tangles, which will require daily brushing. Bathing should be carried out quite frequently, to keep their coat in top condition, with a mild or dry shampoo. After bathing, it is essential to dry your pet correctly. Their coat will require occasional trimming, which will probably be best done at a salon, unless you are a suitably experienced yourself. They tend not to shed or to only shed a little.

Living conditions: These dogs are a fairly active whilst indoors, and as long as they are adequately exercised, they can adapt well to apartment life.

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Oster Shedding Tool – Standard $26.95 Great for small to medium breeds(under 25lbs) with medium to thick undercoats, such as Terriers, Spaniels and Setters. Easily removes dead hair and undercoat while leaving coat looking smooth and healthy. Designed for ultimate safety – teeth blades have rounded ends to glide through the hair and help prevent skin irritation.. Constructed of durable, rust-resistant aluminum with solid stainless steel blades, these rakes are easy to clean. Available in three sizes based on coat length and size of dog.

Shedding Comb $5.79 The teeth of this specially designed comb are turned 90 degrees away from the handle. This helps prevent “raking” your dog’s skin. Gently work the teeth of the comb into the undercoat parallel to the skin and lift out of the shedding hair. Work on small portions of the coat one at a time. For lightly mattedcoats, use a Slicker Brush, it will help loosen the matted portions. In severe cases, use a Dematting Rake before combing out the dead hair. Comb is 8 1/2″ long.

Oster Shedding Tool – Wide $29.95 Great for large breeds(over 25lbs) with medium to thick undercoats, such as Newfoundlands and Shetland Sheep dogs. Easily removes dead hair and undercoat while leaving coat looking smooth and healthy. Designed for ultimate safety – teeth blades have rounded ends to glide through the hair and help prevent skin irritation. Constructed of durable, rust-resistant aluminum with solid stainless steel blades, these rakes are easy to clean. Available in three sizes based on coat length and size of dog.

Slicker Brush – Small $5.99 This is the tool for regular thorough brushing of your small dog or cat. Used to remove dead or shedding hair. It helps to untangle mats and snarls. The finger-fitting contours of the handle increase your comfort and control. The soft rubber-sheathed handle gives you a non-slip, comfortable grip. Use on hard and curly coated-breeds such as: Miniature Schnauzers, Wire Fox Terriers, Bedlingtons, Scottish Terrirs, Toy Poodles.

Bamboo Adjustable Shedding Blade for CATS $11.95 3-in-1 Grooming Tool Ideal for removing large volumes of dead hair and reducing shedding around the house, the double-sided blade features both coarse and fine teeth. Unique looped blade conveniently slides in and out of handle to create a variety of sizes suitable for large or tight grooming areas as well as multiple pets. The blade also separates at the handle for straight-bladed operation when covering larger expanses and to sweep excess water from a pet’s coat after bathing. Cushioned, non-slip handle provides comfortable, secure grip. Adjust to fit pet size small, medium, large More pictures

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