Developed and originally made popular in Australia, the Silky Terrier is one of the small dogs breed that are dominating the hearts of the toy-dog-loving fanciers of the world.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.

The breed is also very animated, full of zeal and loves to dig dirt for a hobby. It is highly inquisitive and loves to know and learn about things it finds amusing or interesting. Playing around and just being active with small short runs and plays makes this dog happy.

When it comes to training, this dog does not like to beat around the bush as it wants the training straightforward. It is highly biddable, quick and very eager to learn making each training a fast one and interesting. This dog can happily strive in an apartment living because it can satisfyingly get active indoors with only a few minutes of daily walks around the neighborhood.

Silky Terriers have well-built, low to the ground bodies and 9 to 10 inches of height. Their ears are V-shaped and stand erect while their tails are often docked. Their noses should be black and their eyes are remarkable for being round, dark and grim-looking.

Their bodies are draped with 5 to 6 inches of fine, shiny and smooth long hair. The hair is center-parted at the back, draping down but does not reach the floor and they have no undercoat and sheds very little. They often come in colors of blue and fire red, or blue with tan patterns; and that all Silky Terries are born black.

Owning a Silky Terrier needs patience in grooming as it needs daily brushing and combing, and regular baths. To maintain its beautiful hair, it should be trimmed regularly. To keep hair from covering the dogs eyes, tie the hair up on a topknot to clear it from the Silky's face.

The development of the Silky Terrier was contributed by some other terrier breeds and these are believed to be the Skye, Cairn, Yorkshire and Australian terriers. It was the American servicemen, who were stationed in Australia during WWII, who brought the Silky Terrier to the United States. In 1959, this breed became an official member of the American Kennel Club and in 1962, its first breed standard had been created.

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