Facts About Australian Silky Terrier Puppies

Australian Silky Terrier dogs are a lively breed and they are fun to watch as they prance around inside that coating of long dark blue hair. They love to frolic and play with their owner. These are especially good guard dogs because they are very quick to warn you of any unusual noise or activity in and around your home.

With a fierce disposition that is unexpected because of small size, masters and trainers must make it clear who is in charge. If this role is not set, the Terrier can end up as a snarling, out of control little animal.

If you do not have a lot of space for a large dog, the perfect companion is an Australian Silky Terrier. During the cold of Winter, an Australian Silky Terrier make the perfect lap warmer who will also fiercely protect you and your home. When trained correctly, a Silky Terrier will be playful and alert, at all times.

Plenty of exercise is needed to burn of some of the pent-up energy that will cause a Silky to become over excited and restless. This restlessness can result in destroyed furniture and an very unhappy dog. To alleviate this, arrange for a daily walk. At least an hour or more of playtime is necessary and you should remember to remain in control throughout the exercise period.

Australian Silky Terriers have dark, almond shaped eyes that are blanketed in a swath of long silky hair. They are included in the category of toy dog breeds and their tiny, elongated body sit atop even tinier legs. Their feet are so small, they are sometimes mistaken for those of a small kitten. Most Silky Terriers are easily recognized by their long unique blue coat of fur with the vivid tan or red highlights. Most dogs wear their hair parted down the middle of their back.

Many toy dogs are prone to Small Dog Syndrome. This Syndrome can occur when the owner continually allow their pet to behave as they wish. Training and discipline is needed to keep this type of dog from thinking they are the pack leader, that they are in control and everything must go their way.

When they believe they are in charge, your Silky Terrier will become a silky terror. They will demand control of every situation with a lot of loud, shrill barking and dominating, aggressive behavior.

Health Problems -The Silky Terrier are prone to several health problems that can become serious without the right medical advice. The most common problems are:

Storage Disease - This can be an extremely serious problem for a Silky Terrier to face. The disease will attack the nervous system and cause serious internal damage that can lead to death. Make sure you have your pet checked with regular trips to the veterinarian.

Bone Degeneration - Common in Silky Terrier puppies. When forced to rest for a few weeks, the problems will reverse itself.

Patellar Luxation - When too much stress is placed on their small fragile legs, the kneecap become dislodged. This condition can be reversed.

More Australian Silky Terrier Facts

Origin - The Silky Terrier was first discovered in Australia in the 1800s and they were first seen in America when a soldier returned from Australia with one after World War II.

Lifespan - With regular health inspections, most Silky Terriers live for 12 to 15 years.

Height - A male Silky Terrier is about nine inches tall and the maximum height of the female is at least eight inches tall.

Average weight: Male Silky Terriers weigh 8 to 10 pounds. The female usually weigh one to two pounds less.

Nickname(s) - Australian Silky Terrier, Silky Terrier, Silky Toy Terrier, Sydney Terrier

Common mixes - Silky Terriers are sometimes confused with the Yorkie but, the Australian Silky Terrier is a mixture of the Yorkshire Terrier from England and the female Australian Terrier.

Anyone who choose this breed for a pet is getting a great dog, with natural instincts to love, guard and protect you and your family.