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Small but not fragile, enthusiastic but not jovial, beautiful but not fabricated, Silky is a 10–long dynamo animated by curiosity and high spirits. The luxurious blue-and-tan coat is straight and shiny, and it feels and behaves like human hair. The wedge-shaped head is topped with downward split hairs in the middle, and the erect V-shaped ears draw attention to the deep, piercing expression of the almond-shaped eyes. Silkeys are more sophisticated than typical ratting terriers, but they must still look and behave like a true Earthdog.
The casual observer may be forgiven at first glance for mistaking a silky for a Yorkshire or Australian terrier. After all, Yorkies and Australians were the main components used by Australian breeders during silty making in the early 20th century. Other breeds that may be factors in silky development (depending on the storyteller) include Cairn, Dandy Dinmont and Sky Terrier, three of the many British terriers brought to Australia by English settlers. For the record, Silky is older than Yorkies and younger than Australian.
The silky terrier is a true “toy terrier”. He is a moderately low set, slightly taller than the refined bone structure, but has enough substance to suggest the ability to hunt and kill domestic rodents. His coat is silky in texture, split from stop to tail and is a well-crafted but not sculpted one. His inquisitive nature and enjoyment of life make him an ideal companion.
The gestation period in lasts for 60-64 days The primary period of the reproductive cycle of the female is called Proestrus and goes on for around 9 days. During this time the females begin to draw in males. The subsequent part is the Estrus when the bitch is receptive to the male. It goes on for around 3 to 11 days. The third part is the Diestrus. Usually, it happens around day 14. In this period the bitch’s discharge changes for distinctive red and reaching its end. The vulva gets back to average, and she will no longer allow mating. The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time span between heat periods ordinarily keeps going around a half year. The litter size ranges between 6 to 8 puppies at a time’
The Silky Terrier’s coat should be brushed at least twice a week with a pin brush or soft bristle brush. A long-toothed metal dog comb can also come in handy for gently working through areas where tangles may be beginning to form. Left unattended, tangles and mats are uncomfortable for your dog and can cause skin problems to develop. The nails should be trimmed once a month, and a bath every four to six weeks with a gentle shampoo meant for dogs will help to keep the coat and skin clean and healthy. Grooming sessions are a good time to check the dog all over for any new lumps or skin problems, and to check that the eyes and ears are healthy and trouble free.
Silky terriers can adapt well to any living situation, but require owners who have time to devote to them – they don’t like being ignored, playing with their family or going on a walk I like it. Taken by the lure of the breed, owners may be tempted to let silky terriers get away with unwanted behavior; It is best to make rules and make sure to follow them. The breed has a strong hunting drive, and a leash is required when running outdoors.
More terrier than lapdog, silky terrier requires more exercise than most toy group breeds. Intelligent, courageous and energetic, Silky needs human partners who will know how to put that energy into daily exercise and sports and work training. The breed does well in the structure ring, and the silky companions have been successful in events, especially agility.
Silky terriers should be fed high-quality dog food suitable for the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior) and ideally prepared for small or toy breeds. Give table scraps at least, if at all, especially avoiding cooked bones and foods with too much fat. Know which human foods are safe for dogs and which are not. Contact your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet.
While silky terriers are generally healthy dogs, there are many health and genetic screening considerations specific to the breed. Responsible breeders have tested their stock for conditions that may pose a breed threat, including patellar laxation and eye disease. A silky terrier’s ears should be examined regularly for signs of infection, and teeth should be brushed frequently using toothpaste designed for dogs. Regular visits to the vet for checkups and parasite control help the dog ensure a longer, healthier life.
Recommended health tests from the National Breed Club: