In 1996, an eight-year-old Australian Silky Terrier named Fizo made national headlines. When a five-foot venomous brown snake — one of Australia’s deadliest — slithered toward his nine-year-old owner, Fizo didn’t hesitate. The tiny dog dove off a balcony to intercept the snake, placing himself between the child and certain danger with no regard for his own safety. For this act of extraordinary bravery, Fizo was awarded the Australian Purple Cross of Bravery.
That’s the Australian Silky Terrier in a nutshell: a tiny dog with the heart of a lion. Developed in Sydney in the late 1800s, this glamorous little terrier was bred to be the perfect urban companion — but never lost its ancestors’ courage and tenacity. While other Australian breeds were created for the rugged outback, the Silky was designed for city life: small enough for a Sydney apartment, beautiful enough to turn heads, and brave enough to dispatch the snakes that wandered into suburban gardens.
Today, the Australian Silky Terrier remains one of Australia’s few truly native dog breeds — and one of its best-kept secrets. With their flowing, silky coats and spirited personalities, these little dogs pack tremendous character into a compact package. But that stunning coat requires commitment, and their terrier temperament demands understanding. This comprehensive guide will help you discover whether this Sydney-born breed is the right companion for your Australian home.
What You’ll Learn
- The difference between Australian Silky Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers
- Grooming requirements for that famous silky coat
- Health conditions owners should know about
- Why this breed suits apartment living
- Realistic costs for Australian owners
Breed Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Toy Group |
| Origin | Sydney, Australia (late 1800s) |
| Size Category | Toy (small) |
| Height (Adult) | 23-26 cm (approximately 9-10 inches) |
| Weight (Adult) | 3.5-4.5 kg (8-10 lbs) |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Coat Type | Long, straight, silky (blue and tan) |
| Exercise Needs | 2/5 (Moderate — 30-45 minutes/day) |
| Trainability | 3/5 (Intelligent but can be stubborn) |
| Good with Children | Better with older children |
| Grooming Requirements | 4/5 (High — daily brushing, regular trimming) |
| Average Puppy Price (AUD) | $1,500 – $3,000 |
Data sourced from Dogs Australia (ANKC) and The Kennel Club breed standards.¹
History of the Australian Silky Terrier
The Australian Silky Terrier has a uniquely Australian origin story — and a fascinating one. In the late 1800s, breeders in Sydney and Victoria began crossing Yorkshire Terriers (imported from England) with Australian Terriers to create a new type of companion dog. The goal was to combine the Yorkshire Terrier’s glamorous coat with the Australian Terrier’s hardier constitution.²
The early years were chaotic. Until 1929, Australian Terriers, Yorkshire Terriers, and what would become Australian Silky Terriers were not clearly defined breeds. Remarkably, puppies of all three types could be born in the same litter, sorted into different breeds only once their coats developed! It wasn’t until 1932 that crossbreeding was officially discouraged, and 1955 before the breed was formally named the Australian Silky Terrier.³
Originally called the “Sydney Silky” due to its popularity in that city, the breed was recognised by the Australian National Kennel Council in 1958. The breed gained international attention after World War II, when American servicemen stationed in Australia fell in love with these spirited little dogs and brought them home. By 1959, the American Kennel Club had recognised the breed (as simply “Silky Terrier”), and it has maintained a devoted following ever since.
While bred primarily as a companion dog, the Australian Silky Terrier retained true terrier instincts. They became known throughout Australia for their ability to dispatch snakes and rats — a practical skill in suburban homes where the occasional brown snake might wander into the garden. This combination of elegance and utility defines the breed’s character to this day.
Australian Silky Terrier Temperament
The breed standard describes Australian Silky Terriers as “keenly alert and active” with a “very friendly, quick and responsive” nature. But beneath that silky coat beats the heart of a true terrier — spirited, confident, and occasionally stubborn.
Confident and Bold: Despite their small size, Australian Silky Terriers have big personalities. They don’t know they’re small and will confidently approach much larger dogs. This confidence is charming but requires management — they’ll pick fights they can’t win if not properly socialised.
Loyal and Devoted: Silkies bond deeply with their families and want to be involved in everything. They’ll follow you from room to room, supervise your cooking, and investigate every package delivered. This devotion is wonderful but can become problematic if it tips into separation anxiety.
Alert and Vocal: Originally bred to alert households to snakes and intruders, Australian Silky Terriers remain excellent watchdogs. They will bark at unfamiliar sounds and visitors. Without training, this alertness can become excessive barking — a common complaint about the breed.
Intelligent but Independent: Like most terriers, Silkies are clever dogs who sometimes prefer their own agenda to yours. They learn quickly but don’t always feel obligated to obey. Training requires patience and positive reinforcement.
Playful and Energetic: These little dogs have more energy than their size suggests. They enjoy games, walks, and activities — don’t mistake them for lazy lapdogs. That said, they’re adaptable and don’t need hours of exercise like working breeds.
Experienced Silky Terrier owners often describe the breed as “a big dog in a small package.” As one Sydney breeder put it: “They genuinely believe they’re German Shepherds. My Silky rules the household — the two Labradors defer to her. She’s four kilos of pure attitude, but she’ll also curl up in your lap and melt your heart. That combination is what makes them irresistible.”
Australian Silky Terriers can be good family dogs, but they’re generally better suited to families with older, respectful children. Their small size makes them vulnerable to rough handling, and they won’t tolerate being grabbed, squeezed, or teased. A Silky who feels threatened may snap in self-defence. With children who understand how to interact gently and respectfully, they can be wonderful companions.
Silkies can coexist with other pets, particularly when raised together, but their terrier instincts require consideration. They may show aggression toward other dogs, especially those of the same sex, and their prey drive can make them unreliable around small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, or even cats they haven’t grown up with. Early socialisation is essential.
If your Australian Silky Terrier becomes yappy, demanding, snappy, or starts resource guarding, you may be experiencing “Small Dog Syndrome” — where a small dog hasn’t been given proper boundaries and believes they run the household. The solution isn’t harsh treatment but consistent, gentle leadership. Establish clear rules, don’t carry them everywhere (let them walk), and don’t excuse behaviours you wouldn’t accept from a larger dog. With proper guidance, Silkies are delightful companions.
Australian Silky Terrier Health
If you’re worried about health issues, the Australian Silky Terrier is generally a healthy, robust breed with relatively few serious genetic conditions. Their small size and careful breeding have produced dogs that often live well into their teens. However, like all breeds, there are some conditions to be aware of.
Australian Silky Terriers typically live 12-15 years with proper care.⁴ Several breed-specific conditions require attention.
Common in many toy breeds, patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of position. You may notice your Silky skipping on three legs for a few steps before returning to normal. Mild cases can be managed with weight control and joint supplements; severe cases may require surgery. The Australian Veterinary Association recommends screening breeding dogs for this condition.⁵
This condition affects the hip joint in young dogs (typically 4-12 months), causing the head of the femur to deteriorate due to insufficient blood supply. Symptoms include lameness and pain. Surgery is usually required but has good outcomes. Responsible breeders screen for this condition.
The tracheal rings can weaken over time, leading to a characteristic “honking” cough and breathing difficulties. This is managed by maintaining healthy weight, using harnesses instead of collars, and avoiding respiratory irritants. Severe cases may require medication or surgery.
Small breeds are particularly prone to dental problems due to their small mouths and crowded teeth. Regular dental care — including home brushing and professional cleanings — is essential. Dogs Australia recommends starting dental care early and maintaining it throughout life.⁶
Some Silkies develop cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) later in life. Regular veterinary eye examinations can catch these conditions early. Tear staining is also common and requires regular cleaning around the eyes.
Lifespan & Longevity Tips
The average Australian Silky Terrier lifespan is 12-15 years, with many reaching the higher end of this range. Small dogs generally live longer than large breeds, and the Silky’s generally robust health contributes to good longevity. Well-cared-for Silkies often remain active and playful into their senior years.
Tips for a Longer, Healthier Life:
- Maintain healthy weight — obesity strains joints and the trachea
- Use a harness rather than collar to protect the trachea
- Prioritise dental care with regular brushing and professional cleanings
- Keep up with regular grooming to prevent skin issues
- Schedule annual veterinary check-ups including dental and eye examinations
- Provide mental stimulation — bored terriers become unhappy terriers
Australian Silky Terrier Grooming
That beautiful, flowing coat is the Australian Silky Terrier’s signature feature — and it requires dedication to maintain. Unlike the coarser coats of most terriers, the Silky’s hair is fine and straight, more similar to human hair in texture. This means it tangles easily and requires regular attention.
Many Australian Silky Terrier owners keep their dogs in a shorter “pet trim” to reduce daily grooming requirements. As one Melbourne owner explained: “I tried maintaining the full show coat for about six months before giving in. The daily brushing just wasn’t sustainable with my schedule. Now she’s in a puppy clip and we’re both happier — she still looks gorgeous and I spend quality time with her instead of fighting tangles.”
Quality Australian grooming products like Plush Puppy or PAW by Blackmores work well for their silky coat. For dental care, products like Oravet or Greenies help maintain oral health. The hair on the face often falls into the eyes, so many owners tie up a topknot or have the facial hair trimmed.
Grooming Schedule
| Task | Frequency | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brushing (full coat) | Daily | 10-15 mins | Pin brush and comb |
| Brushing (pet trim) | 2-3x weekly | 5-10 mins | Prevents matting |
| Bathing | Every 2-4 weeks | 30-45 mins | Condition coat after shampoo |
| Professional Grooming | Every 6-8 weeks | 1-2 hours | $60-$100 per session |
| Teeth Brushing | Daily (ideally) | 2-3 mins | Essential for small breeds |
Australian Silky Terrier Exercise Needs
One of the advantages of the Australian Silky Terrier is their moderate exercise requirements. While they’re more energetic than some toy breeds, they don’t need the extensive exercise of working dogs. The RSPCA Australia recommends 30-45 minutes of daily activity for this breed.⁷
This makes them well-suited to apartment living and urban environments — exactly what they were bred for. A couple of short walks daily, plus indoor playtime, typically keeps a Silky happy. However, they do need activity; a completely sedentary lifestyle will lead to obesity, boredom, and behavioural problems.
Ideal Activities:
- Short walks around the neighbourhood
- Indoor play sessions with toys
- Puzzle feeders and scent games for mental stimulation
- Fetch in a secure backyard or park
- Dog sports like agility or flyball (they excel at these)
If your Australian Silky Terrier becomes restless, starts excessive barking, or develops destructive habits like digging or chewing, insufficient exercise or mental stimulation is often the culprit. Despite their small size, they’re terriers — intelligent dogs that need engagement. Adding a puzzle feeder, an extra walk, or some training sessions often resolves these issues quickly.
Australian Silky Terrier Training
Don’t be discouraged if your Australian Silky Terrier occasionally ignores your commands — they’re terriers, and a certain independent streak comes with the territory. The good news is they’re intelligent and capable of learning quickly when properly motivated. The challenge is convincing them that listening to you is worth their while.
According to the American Kennel Club, Australian Silky Terriers respond best to positive, reward-based training that keeps them engaged and interested.⁸ They bore easily with repetition and may become stubborn if training is harsh or monotonous.
Key Training Principles:
- Use positive reinforcement — they respond poorly to harsh corrections
- Keep sessions short and varied (5-10 minutes)
- Start early — socialisation before 16 weeks is crucial
- Address barking early with “quiet” commands
- Don’t carry them everywhere — let them experience the world on foot
- Use high-value treats — they can be food motivated when interested
Socialisation & Training Timeline
| Age | Training Focus | Expected Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| 8-12 weeks | Socialisation, grooming introduction, toilet training | Comfortable with handling and grooming |
| 3-4 months | Basic commands, leash walking, bark control | Walks on lead, responds to “quiet” |
| 4-6 months | Advanced commands, meeting other dogs, impulse control | Polite greetings with other dogs |
| 6-12 months | Reliability in various environments, continued socialisation | Well-mannered adolescent |
Australian Silky Terriers can develop “Small Dog Syndrome” if not properly trained and socialised — becoming yappy, snappy, and demanding. The key is treating them like a dog, not a furry accessory. Set boundaries, enforce rules consistently, and provide proper training. A well-trained Silky is a joy; an untrained one can be a nuisance to live with.
Australian Silky Terrier Price & Costs
Understanding the true cost of Australian Silky Terrier ownership helps you budget realistically. While they’re relatively economical in terms of food consumption due to their small size, grooming costs can add up if you use professional services regularly.
Finding Your Australian Silky Terrier:
Find registered breeders through the Dogs Australia website or state breed clubs like the Australian Silky Terrier Club of Victoria. Look for breeders who health test for patellar luxation and eye conditions, and who raise puppies in home environments.⁹ The Australian Silky Terrier is a distinctly Australian breed, so good breeders are available in most states.
Initial Costs
| Expense | Approx. Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Puppy Price (Registered Breeder) | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Show Quality | $2,500 – $3,500 |
| Adoption Fee (Rescue) | $300 – $600 |
| Initial Vet + Vaccinations | $200 – $350 |
| Desexing | $250 – $400 |
| Essential Supplies (bed, crate, bowls, grooming tools) | $250 – $400 |
| TOTAL INITIAL COST | $2,750 – $5,250 |
Annual Ongoing Costs
- Premium Food (Royal Canin, Advance, Black Hawk): $400 – $600 (small dogs eat less)
- Veterinary Care & Preventatives: $300 – $500
- Pet Insurance: $350 – $650
- Professional Grooming: $600 – $1,000 (6-8 visits at $60-$100)
- Dental Care: $200 – $400 (essential for small breeds)
- Toys, Treats, Miscellaneous: $150 – $300
TOTAL ANNUAL: $2,000 – $3,450
Lifetime Cost Estimate: $28,000 – $50,000 (based on 14-year average lifespan)
Is an Australian Silky Terrier Right for You?
The perfect Australian Silky Terrier owner appreciates the breed’s spirited terrier personality, can commit to regular grooming, and understands that small doesn’t mean easy. They enjoy having a loyal shadow who wants to participate in daily life, and they’re prepared to provide proper training rather than spoiling.
- Home Size: Excellent for apartments and units — bred for urban living
- Yard: Not essential with daily walks, but secure if present (they will dig)
- Climate: Adaptable; protect from extreme heat and cold
- Work Schedule: Prefer companionship but can manage moderate alone time
This can feel like a lot to consider, but being honest about potential challenges helps ensure a successful match. Australian Silky Terriers reward the right owners with years of devoted companionship — but they’re not the easiest small breed to own.
- Families with very young children who might handle them roughly
- Those who want a completely quiet dog (they alert bark)
- People unable to commit to regular grooming
- Owners who will carry them everywhere rather than letting them walk
- Those seeking a breed that’s easy to train and always obedient
- Households with small prey animals like rabbits or guinea pigs
Final Verdict
The Australian Silky Terrier is a uniquely Australian treasure — a breed developed in Sydney that combines glamour with genuine terrier spirit. For owners who appreciate their feisty personality, commit to grooming, and provide proper training, they offer devoted companionship in a compact, apartment-friendly package.
Perfect for: Individuals, couples, or families with older children who want a spirited, loyal companion that suits apartment or urban living, and who can commit to regular grooming.
Think twice if: You want a very quiet dog, have very young children, or are looking for an easy-going, low-maintenance pet that requires minimal grooming or training.
First-time owner verdict: Possible with research and commitment. They’re intelligent and adaptable, but their terrier independence and grooming requirements mean they’re not the easiest first dog. Previous experience with terriers or other spirited breeds is helpful.
Australian Silky Terrier FAQs
What is the difference between an Australian Silky Terrier and a Yorkshire Terrier?
Australian Silky Terriers are slightly larger (3.5-4.5 kg vs 2-3 kg for Yorkies), with a longer body and stronger, more terrier-like build. Their coat, while silky, doesn’t grow as long as a Yorkshire Terrier’s floor-length coat. Silkies also have a more pronounced terrier temperament — more active, bold, and independent than the more dependent Yorkshire Terrier.
How long do Australian Silky Terriers live?
Australian Silky Terriers typically live 12-15 years. With proper care, regular veterinary attention, and healthy weight maintenance, many reach the upper end of this range or beyond. They’re generally a healthy, long-lived breed.
Do Australian Silky Terriers shed?
Australian Silky Terriers are low-shedding dogs, which makes them popular with people who prefer less hair around the house. Their coat is more similar to human hair than typical dog fur. However, low-shedding doesn’t mean no-maintenance — they require regular brushing to prevent matting.
Are Australian Silky Terriers hypoallergenic?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but Australian Silky Terriers are often considered more allergy-friendly due to their low-shedding coat. People with dog allergies may react less to Silkies than to heavy-shedding breeds. However, individual reactions vary — spend time with the breed before committing if allergies are a concern.
Are Australian Silky Terriers good apartment dogs?
Yes — they were bred specifically for urban living in Sydney and suit apartment life well. Their small size, moderate exercise needs, and adaptability make them excellent flat dwellers. However, their tendency to bark requires training to avoid complaints from neighbours.
Do Australian Silky Terriers bark a lot?
They can be vocal. Bred to alert households to snakes and intruders, they remain natural watchdogs who bark at unfamiliar sounds. With proper training from puppyhood, barking can be managed, but expecting a silent Silky is unrealistic. They’re terriers — they have opinions and share them.
How much do Australian Silky Terriers cost in Australia?
Expect to pay $1,500-$3,000 for a puppy from a registered breeder, with show-quality puppies at the higher end. The Australian Silky Terrier Club of Victoria suggests prices around $2,000-$2,500. Always buy from registered breeders to avoid health and temperament issues.
Primary Sources:
- Dogs Australia (ANKC) — Official breed registration and standards: dogsaustralia.org.au
- The Kennel Club UK — Breed history and standards: thekennelclub.org.uk
- American Kennel Club — Silky Terrier history: akc.org
Veterinary & Health Sources:
- PetMD — Silky Terrier health and care: petmd.com
- Australian Veterinary Association — Breed health guidelines: ava.com.au
- Dogs Australia — Health testing schemes: dogsaustralia.org.au
Australian-Specific Sources:
- RSPCA Australia — Exercise guidelines: rspca.org.au
- American Kennel Club — Training recommendations: akc.org
- Australian Silky Terrier Club of Victoria — Breeder information: australiansilkyterrierclub.org.au