The Australian Silky Terrier Dog
Looking for a loveable dog that is not only a captivating canine companion but a complete joy to have in the home? Let the Australian Silky Terrier steal the show! This breed is a living testament that small packages certainly pack a loveable punch. Well known for their loyalty and endearing demeanour, it’s no wonder the Australian Silky Terrier continuously wins the hearts of dog lovers around the globe.
Australian Silky Terrier At A Glance
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Temperament | Friendly & Alert |
| Suitable | Family friendly. Active households and individuals. |
| Health | Generally healthy breed but may be prone to certain health complaints |
| COMMON CLAIMS | MAXIMUM CLAIM |
|---|---|
| Anal Sac Disorder | $424.22 |
| Clinical Conditions | $639.00 |
| Endocrine Disease – Adrenal | $1,147.16 |
| Eye Condition | $238.08 |
| Eye Conditions Other | $1,897.17 |
| Foreign Body or Toxin Ingestion | $816.30 |
| Gastrointestinal Tract Conditions | $485.01 |
| Laboratory Abnormality | $495.00 |
| Muscular/Skeletal Condition | $1,109.96 |
| Cruciate Ligament | $5,900.00 |
| Joint Disorder | $272.50 |
*Pet Insurance Australia Data 2022/2023
Intellect and Love
This breed of dog thrives on attention. Beneath their lustrous exterior, a spark of terrier intelligence is certainly present. For this reason, training is a must. As with all dog breeds, positive reinforcement techniques are important to shape their behaviour and create a well-rounded and behaved dog. It is advised to make training sessions as interesting as possible to prevent your little Silky from getting bored. Early socialisation is also vital – expose your Silky to a range of diverse sights, sounds, and experiences to prevent future problems. Crate training is also recommended and can be an invaluable tool that can help aid with toilet training while also allowing for a safe space for your pup to retreat to. Enrolling in puppy preschool classes is also a great way to lay the foundation for essential training tools and social interactions in a safe way.
Grooming for Elegance
Though their luxurious coats may appear daunting, grooming the Australian Silky Terrier is actually not as hard as it may seem. A gentle brush every other day will keep the knots at bay and keep their coats looking immaculate. For a sleeker and more refined look or if you Silky is suffering in the heat of summer, consider a good trim. Calling in the experts and having your Australian Silky Terrier professionally groomed can also reap benefits. However, it is important to start this process from a young age to ensure your pup is used to all the fuss of the hairdresser. It’s also a good plan to start gentle grooming sessions during puppyhood to allow your puppy to learn to love the brush. Regular nail trimming from a young age is recommended. If you are unsure how to correctly clip your pups’ nails consult your local veterinarian for advice. Vet proofing your puppy is also highly advisable – consider gently handling paws, face, teeth, and mouth regularly so that your check-ups are much less stressful for you and your dog.
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Common Health Concerns – Australian Silky Terrier
While the Australian Silky Terrier is a beautiful breed, it’s crucial to be aware of potential health concerns that can arise. Just as humans have specific health problems, these delightful dogs can also be predisposed to certain ailments. This can include:
- Patellar Luxation: This condition involves the displacement of the kneecap, which can cause discomfort and lameness in dogs. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and veterinary advice can help manage this condition.
- Tracheal Collapse: The delicate tracheal rings in this breed can weaken over time, leading to respiratory issues. Avoid using collars that put any pressure on the neck, and maintain a healthy weight range to alleviate strain on the trachea.
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: This condition affects the hip joint and can lead to pain and lameness. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are vital to ensuring the management of this disease.
- Diabetes Mellitus: Australian Silky Terriers are also known to be susceptible to diabetes, a metabolic disorder that requires careful management through diet, medication, and regular veterinary monitoring.
- Dental Issues: Small breeds like the Australian Silky Terrier are prone to dental problems. Regular dental care, including brushing and professional cleanings, is crucial to maintaining oral health.
- Allergies: Skin allergies are also common in this breed. Regular grooming, a balanced diet, and veterinary intervention can help manage allergy-related issues.
Other possible health problems include:
- Cataracts: Cataracts are clouding of the lens of the eye, leading to vision problems and potential blindness. Australian Silky Terriers, like many other breeds, can develop cataracts as they head into their golden older years. Genetics, diabetes, and other underlying health conditions can contribute to development of cataracts. Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect and treat cataracts.
- Cushing's Disease: Also known as hyperadrenocorticism, Cushing's Disease is caused by the overproduction of the stress hormone known as cortisol. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including increased thirst and urination, weight gain, and skin problems. While any dog can develop Cushing's Disease, some breeds can have a genetic predisposition to this disease including the Australian Silky Terrier.
- Liver Problems: Like all dogs this breed can experience liver issues such as hepatitis, liver shunts, and other conditions that commonly affect liver function. Symptoms may include changes in appetite, vomiting, jaundice and lethargy. Regular veterinary visits and correct nutrition, from puppyhood to senior stage, are essential for maintaining liver health.
- Pyometra: Pyometra is a serious condition that affects female un-desexed dogs. Symptoms include loss of appetite, lethargy, and vaginal discharge. Preventing pyometra is best achieved through desexing.
- Idiopathic Epilepsy: Idiopathic epilepsy causes seizures to occur without a specific underlying cause. Some Australian Silky Terriers may be genetically predisposed to developing epilepsy. Veterinarian advice is vital for diagnosing and managing the condition.
- Thyroid Problems: Thyroid issues, particularly hypothyroidism, can affect the Australian Silky Terrier. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones. This can lead to various symptoms such as weight gain, lethargy, skin problems, and changes in behaviour. If you suspect your dog is suffering from any of the above symptoms a veterinary check is important.
Boundless Energy
Don’t be fooled by their petite frames—the Australian Silky Terrier harbors a fervour for energetic activity. With that terrier spirit onboard, your Silky will require a good brisk walk on a daily basis. Off-leash romps are also a wonderful way to burn off some energy while allowing your dog to interact socially. It is important to understand that many Australian Silky Terriers have a fearlessness around larger dogs. Supervision in off-leash areas is paramount. Leash training is vital to ensure enjoyable walks and ease of training. On rainy days, don’t be discouraged. Consider indoor training and games such as fetch or hide-and-seek to keep your little Silky entertained.
Sharp Minds
As a terrier at heart the Australian Silky boasts remarkable intelligence. However, long stints alone can lead to destructive tendencies and unwanted behaviours – cue the barking. Counteract boredom and alone time with simple tricks such as toy rotation. Having a good selection of home-alone toys can help alleviate boredom – the trick is to ensure you pick up these toys when you return. A good amount of exercise before leaving your Australian Silky alone can also help prevent boredom. A brief training session before heading to work will engage both their minds and muscles. Nevertheless, as with most breeds, extended periods of isolation will bring problems. If a demanding schedule limits your presence for long periods of time, another breed might better suit your lifestyle.
Cherished Family Companions
The Australian Silky Terrier shines as an exquisite addition to families, though their petite size warrants supervised interaction with younger children to prevent accidents and falls. In well-supervised households, these dogs can lead wonderful lives with children of various ages. It is important to educate children on proper canine etiquette, and train your dog to interact safely with youngsters. Encourage young children to always sit when interacting and prevent very young children from carrying your dog. As a terrier, they have an inbuilt drive to chase small prey – AKA the family cat. Training and early socialisation can help prevent any canine/feline mishaps.
Indoor Dwelling Breed
The Australian Silky Terrier is most certainly an indoor companion, making them an ideal fit for apartment living or those looking for a constant companion. As vigilant watch dogs, they’ll require training to ensure their barking doesn’t cause a stir with neighbours. Your Silky will also require a good safe outdoor space with robust fencing to prevent escaping to better smells and sounds. As with all breeds, ample shelter and water is paramount.
Responsible Breeding
As with all dog breeds it is important that you only purchase from a reputable breeder who prioritises the overall health of their dogs. Good dog breeders will ensure that the breed is the right fit for you and your family. Don’t forget to ask all the questions regarding hereditary issues and insist on meeting both parents. Engage with local breed clubs and research your chosen breeder. Most top breeders will also conduct regular genetic testing to screen for potential health concerns and will emphasise the importance of sound temperaments. Investing extra time and researching your desired breeder can help protect against the heartache of dealing with any health problems later in life.
Contact PIA to get Pet Insurance for your Australian Silky Terrier
PIA is a family owned pet insurance company for Australia, and we have a long and successful history of helping owners care for their Australian Silky Terriers. Contact us today to learn more about our range of simple, flexible and affordable cover options.
A Tail-Wagging Conclusion
The Australian Silky Terrier is a petite powerhouse of charisma and intelligence. They are a cherished companion in many homes worldwide and provide endless joy and loyalty to those who choose to love them. By encouraging their potential and high intelligence through gentle training, you can unlock a world of joy and companionship these canines offer. Finding the right breeder is also important to ensure that your journey with an Australian Silky Terrier begins on the right paw, setting the stage for years of shared adventures and heart-warming memories.
