The Australian Silky Terrier, whose dark, almond shaped eyes are blanketed in a swath of that long silky hair, are included in the list of miniature toy dog breeds. Their tiny, elongated body sit daintily atop tiny legs with feet that are sometimes mistaken for those of a small cat. Most Silkies are easily recognized by their long blue coat of fur with the vivid red or tan highlights, that is usually parted down the middle of their back.http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/silkyterrier.htm

Their small size is in no way indicative of their fierce disposition when they are determined to get their way. Be sure to make it known that you are in charge or you can quickly lose control of your pet and end up with a snarling, uncontrollable animal on your hands. If you are living in the city and you do not have a lot of space for a large dog, you will have the perfect companion if you choose a Silky Terrier. In the cold of Winter an Australian Silky Terrier is the perfect lap warmer who will adamantly protect you and your home.http://www.akc.org/breeds/thttp://www.akc.org/breeds/toy_group.cfmoy_group.cfm

The Silky Terrier is known for having several health problems that can become serious without the right medical advice from a veterinarian. The most common problems you can expect are:

• This can be an extremely serious problem for a Silky Terrier to face, it is a condition known an Storage Disease. The disease will attack the nervous system and cause serious internal damage that can sometimes lead to death. If you own an this type of dog, make sure you have your pet checked with regular trips to the veterinarian.
• A skin disorder known as yeast dermatitis
• Temporary bone degeneration is common in Silky Terrier puppies, but when your pup is restricted from exercise and forced to rest for a few weeks, the problems will reverse itself.
• Elbow dysplasia
• The kneecap can be knocked out of place when too much stress is placed on their small fragile legs. This condition, known as patellar luxation can be reversed.http://www.terrificpets.com/dog_breeds/Silky_Terrier.asp

These dogs are a lively breed and they are fun to watch as they prance around inside a coating of long beautiful hair. They love to play and they are quick to warn you of any unusual noise or activity. You can expect a Silky Terrier to be playful and alert at all times. Because they remain alert, Silkies make excellent guard dogs when you are at home alone. Remember that plenty of exercise is essential to burn of some of the energy that will cause them to become excited and restless. A daily walk, for at least an hour is necessary and you must remain in control throughout the exercise period. http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/silkyterrier.htm

A lot of toy dogs are prone to Small Dog Syndrome that can occur when the owner allow their pet to behave as they wish. Training and discipline is needed to keep this type dog from thinking that they are the pack leader, that they are in control and everything must go their way. When they believe they are the one in charge, your Silky Terrier will become a silky terror by trying to control every situation with a lot of loud, shrill barking and dominating, aggressive behavior.http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/silkyterrier.htm

Silky Terriers have always been considered companion dogs, who has instinctively become a hunter of small rats and other rodents. This cute breed with the long flowing tresses was first recognized and labeled as a breed in 1902 with a twin known as the Harsh variety whose coat was not the same as the long and flowing example that pinpointed the Silky variety. By 1950, the harsh and silky references were completely split into two distinct breeds and the Silky Terrier was now considered a separate and new breed of dog.http://www.terrificpets.com/dog_breeds/Silky_Terrier.asp