Developed and originally made popular in Australia, the Silky Terrier is one of the small dogs breed that are dominating the hearts of the toy-dog-loving fanciers of the world. In the US, this little dog is called the Silky Terrier. In Australia and other parts of the world, it is called the Australian Silky Terrier or the Sidney Terrier.

This Australian breed is highly praised for being affectionate, highly intelligent, brave and alert. Although small, this breed does not conform to the idea that it is only a placid lapdog. The Silky Terrier is bursting with energy and actually makes a good watchdog.

As an interesting hobby, the Silky loves to dig dirt. It is also very enthusiastic, very curious and intensely loves learning new things. This dog can get happy by merely romping around and running indoors or in a small yard.

Training sessions with this dog are very easy and interesting since it loves to learn and wants the lessons straightforward. This dog is very docile, quick to learn and very keen in acquiring new knowledge. In an apartment dwelling, this dog can still strive happily as it is mostly active indoors and that it only needs daily walks as an outdoor exercise.

Gifted with a well-boned body, the adorable Silky Terrier stands moderately low with only 9 to 10 inches of height to boot. Its ears animatedly stand erect and v-shaped while its tail is often docked. The nose is black and the eyes are round, dark and suggest an intense expression.

The bodies of the Silky Terriers are beautifully wrapped with 5 to 6 inches of long, fine, and silky soft hair. It is parted at the center on its back and drapes smoothly at the sides which almost reaches the floor. The hair of the Silky has no undercoat, sheds very little and often comes in combinations of blue and fire red, blue and tan markings, and any combinations of the blue shade.

Grooming the Silky Terrier takes commitment as it needs at least 15 minutes of brushing or combing daily. Bathing and trimming its coat regularly keeps it healthy and beautiful. Most Silky Terriers have topknots atop their heads so that hairs are kept from falling over their eyes.

The Silky Terrier is a combination of other terrier breeds such as the Skye, Cairn, Australian Terrier and Yorkshire Terrier. This breed reached North America through returning US servicemen who served in Australia during World War II. In 1959, the AKC officially recognized the Silky Terrier as a breed and in 1962, the first standard for this breed was established.