Exercise
Plan for about 45 to 60 minutes of daily activity. Breeds with this profile stay more settled when activity includes both movement and mental engagement.
ToySmall
Australia
AustraliaSilky Terrier
Weight
8-11 lb
Height
9-10 in
Lifespan
12-15 yrs
Coat
Silky Long
A spirited toy terrier with a fine coat, lively personality, and surprising boldness.
Toy group breedOrigin: AustraliaExercise needs: 3/5
Breed Names
Official, native, and commonly used variants
Australian Silky TerrierAustralian Silky
LivelyCuriousAffectionateBoldAlertIntelligent
Weight
8-11 lb
Height
9-10 in
Lifespan
12-15 yrs
Coat
Silky Long
At A Glance
Daily living snapshot
A quick read on energy, upkeep, and what day-to-day life with this breed usually feels like.
Energy
Moderate
Barking
Moderate
Drooling
Low
Shedding
Low
Grooming
4/5
First-time owner
Yes
Overview
The Silky Terrier originated in Australia and was developed for companionship with classic terrier spark. A spirited toy terrier with a fine coat, lively personality, and surprising boldness.
In daily life, this breed is often described as lively, curious, affectionate. It is one of the stronger apartment-compatible options and usually does best in smaller homes that still provide routine grooming and play.
Temperament & Personality
LivelyCuriousAffectionateBoldAlertIntelligent
This breed tends to suit homes looking for a lively, curious, affectionate companion, with daily rhythms shaped by moderate energy, moderate barking, and low drooling.
Coat type
Silky
Coat length
Long
Shedding
Low
Colors
Blue and Tan, Silver Blue and Tan, Gray Blue and Tan
Lifestyle Compatibility
Family Friendly4/5
Good with Kids3/5
Good with Dogs3/5
Good with Strangers4/5
Apartment Friendly5/5
Exercise Needs3/5
Grooming Needs4/5
Trainability4/5
Good fit if you want
- A family-friendly companion
- A home-friendly apartment match
- A more forgiving first ownership experience
Plan ahead for
- 3/5 exercise needs
- low shedding and coat upkeep
- moderate barking in daily life
Care Guide
Grooming
The long silky coat has low shedding and grooming demand rated 4/5. Brush regularly and stay current with ear, nail, and skin checks.
Training
This breed is responsive when training is positive and structured. Early socialization and short, consistent sessions usually produce the best results.
Nutrition
Feed a quality diet sized for a small dog and keep body condition lean. Split daily portions into measured meals and adjust intake for activity level.
Behavior & Environment
Energy level
Moderate
Barking level
Moderate
Drooling level
Low
Watchdog ability
4/5
Guard dog ability
1/5
Climate tolerance
Cold weather2/5
Heat tolerance3/5
Health Considerations
Common concerns to discuss with your vet and breeder.
Patellar luxationTracheal collapseDental disease
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Silky Terrier good for apartment living?
The Silky Terrier is one of the stronger apartment-compatible options. Daily structure and realistic exercise are the deciding factors.
How much exercise does a Silky Terrier need?
Most Silky Terrier dogs need about 45 to 60 minutes of daily activity. Mental work helps just as much as physical activity for many individuals.
Is the Silky Terrier good for first-time owners?
Yes, this breed can suit prepared first-time owners when training and care are consistent.
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