Silky Terrier
The Silky Terrier is described by the AKC as friendly, quick, keenly alert, a member of the Toy Group, originally from Australia.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 9-10 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | around 10 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 13–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Friendly / Quick / Keenly Alert [1] |
| AKC group | Toy Group [1] |
| Origin | Australia [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 116 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
More a terrier than a lapdog, the Silky Terrier requires more exercise than most Toy Group breeds. Intelligent, bold, and energetic, Silkies need human partners who will know how to channel that energy into daily exercise and training for sports and work. The breed does well in the conformation ring, and Silkies have been successful in companion events, particularly agility. [1]
Grooming
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. [1]
Health issues to budget for
While Silky Terriers are generally healthy dogs, there are several health and genetic screening considerations specific to the breed. Responsible breeders test their stock for conditions the breed can be prone to, including patellar luxation and eye disease. A Silky Terrier's ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed often, using a toothpaste designed for dogs. Regular visits to the vet for checkups and parasite control help to ensure the dog a long, healthy life. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: No recommended health tests. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Silky Terrier in 1959. [1]
- It ranked No. 116 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 102 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Silky, Sydney Silky.” [1]
- The AKC lists Australia as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 1 recommended health screening for breeding dogs, such as No recommended health tests. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 2/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 4/5
Common questions
How long do Silky Terriers live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 13-15 years.
How big does a Silky Terrier get?
AKC breed information lists height 9-10 inches and weight around 10 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Silky Terrier?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Silky Terrier, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.