Australian Silky Terrier vs. Yorkie: Which small dog is right for you?
The Silky Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier are two popular toy dog breeds that have similar looks but very different origins and personalities. Both breeds are known for their long, silky coats and small size, making them ideal lap dogs and companions.
But how do you choose between an Australian Silky Terrier and a Yorkie? This article offers a detailed comparison of the two breeds, covering key differences in their history, appearance, temperament, grooming needs, common health problems, and overall cost.
Whether you’re a prospective dog owner, a dog lover, or simply curious about these two charming breeds, you’ll find the information you need to make an informed decision about which dog is the best fit for your lifestyle.
History and Origins: Yorkie vs. Silky Terrier
Although they’re similar in appearance, the Australian Silky Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier come from different parts of the world and different working backgrounds.
Origins of the Silky Terrier
The Silky Terrier was developed in Australia in the early 20th century by breeders crossing Australian Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers. For a time, the breed was known as the Sydney Silky.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Silky Terrier as an official breed in 1955. Breeders originally developed the Silky to be both a companion dog and an exterminator of small vermin.
Origins of the Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier originated in Yorkshire, England, during the Industrial Revolution. Working-class people bred these dogs to catch rats in mills and mines, possibly from a mix of different terrier breeds.
The AKC recognized the Yorkshire Terrier in 1885. By the late 1800s, the Yorkie had become a popular lapdog for ladies.
APPEARANCE: SILKY TERRIER VS. YORKIE
Both the Australian Silky Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier are small dogs with long, flowing coats, but there are some differences.
Silky Terrier Size, Appearance, and Coloring
Silky Terriers are slightly larger than Yorkies.
- Weight: 8 to 11 pounds
- Height: 9 to 10 inches
They have a silky, long coat that’s typically tan and blue, although they may be black as puppies. You’ll need to brush your Silky regularly to keep their coat from matting.
They have a distinctive head shape that’s slightly wedge-shaped.
There are thirteen accepted color combinations for this breed.
Yorkie Size, Appearance, and Coloring
Yorkies are smaller and have a more compact build than Silkies.
- Weight: 4 to 7 pounds
- Height: 7 to 8 inches
They also have a long, flowing coat that changes color as they mature, morphing from black and tan to blue and gold. Regular grooming and trimming are required to keep a Yorkie’s coat healthy and looking its best.
Temperament: Silky Terrier vs. Yorkie
Both the Silky Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier are known for their big personalities, but there are some key differences in their temperaments.
Yorkshire Terrier Temperament
Yorkies are intelligent, adventurous, and fiercely protective of their people. They have a strong prey drive and can be excitable, so early socialization and training are essential to manage any protective tendencies. Yorkies are also known for being affectionate and loyal, bonding closely with their families.
These tiny dogs are brave and confident, sometimes to a fault. They don’t always realize they’re small, and they can be surprisingly bold when confronted with larger animals (or even strangers).
Silky Terrier Temperament
Silky Terriers are friendly, high-energy, and affectionate, making them wonderful family pets. However, they can also be prone to anxiety and territorial behavior, so early training and socialization are important.
Compared to Yorkies, Silkies are generally more reserved with strangers. They are intelligent and alert, making them good watchdogs, but they’re not as prone to excessive barking as some other small breeds.
Independent and playful, Silkies need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy. Crate training is generally recommended to provide them with a safe and secure space.
GROOMING NEEDS: SILKY TERRIER VS. YORKIE
Whether you choose a Silky Terrier or a Yorkshire Terrier, be prepared for a commitment to grooming. Both breeds have long, silky coats that require daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles.
Most owners also opt for professional grooming appointments every few months. A groomer can handle trimming, bathing, and nail care to keep your pup looking its best.
Finally, don’t forget about dental care! Regular teeth brushing and professional cleanings are important for preventing tartar buildup and gum disease in both breeds.
Exercise and Activity: Silky Terrier vs. Yorkie
Both Silky Terriers and Yorkies need daily exercise. Plan on at least two brisk walks per day.
Yorkies can usually get by with walks of 15 to 20 minutes each. Silky Terriers also enjoy walks, but they need more mental stimulation than Yorkies. Games, puzzles, and interactive toys will help keep your Silky Terrier from getting bored.
Both breeds enjoy a good game of fetch and a trip to the dog park. Just be sure to socialize them early. Otherwise, they can become territorial.
It’s also a good idea to schedule at least one longer, more rigorous activity each week for both breeds.
Trainability: Silky Terrier vs. Yorkie
Both the Silky Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier are smart dogs that enjoy making their owners happy. That means they learn quickly using positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise.
With both breeds, consistency is key. You’ll want to establish clear rules and boundaries right away so they know what you expect from them.
One command that’s useful to teach both Silkies and Yorkies is “quiet.” Both breeds tend to bark, and teaching them a “quiet” command early on can help manage this behavior.
Health Considerations: Silky Terrier vs. Yorkie
Both Silky Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers are prone to similar health issues. These include:
- Patellar luxation (kneecap dislocation)
- Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (a degenerative hip condition)
- Tracheal collapse (a weakening of the windpipe)
- Dental problems
Regular checkups with your veterinarian are essential for both breeds. Early detection and treatment can improve the outcome of many of these conditions.
If you’re considering getting either a Silky Terrier or a Yorkie puppy, ask the breeder about health screenings. A responsible breeder will screen their dogs for common health problems and be able to provide health clearances for the puppy’s parents. This can help to reduce the risk of your dog developing these conditions later in life.
Living requirements: Silky Terrier vs. Yorkie
Both the Silky Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier can adapt to apartment living, provided they have enough room to move around and play. Both breeds are also sensitive to hot and cold weather, so you’ll want to protect them from extreme temperatures.
If they have access to a yard, you’ll need a secure fence to keep them from escaping. These dogs have a strong prey drive and will chase after squirrels, birds, and other small animals.
Compatibility with children and other pets
Both Australian Silky Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers can get along with children and other animals, but early socialization is key. Introduce them to different people, places, sights, sounds, and smells as puppies.
Keep in mind that neither breed is ideal for families with small children or other small pets, like rodents. Yorkies and Silkies both have a strong prey drive, so always supervise their interactions with kids and other animals.
If you already have pets, introduce a Yorkie or Silky slowly and gradually. Using positive reinforcement, like treats and praise, can help them form positive associations.
Cost of ownership: Silky Terrier vs. Yorkie
The price of purebred puppies varies widely based on the breeder and the dog’s pedigree. Here’s what you can expect to pay for a puppy:
- Silky Terriers: $500-$1500+
- Yorkshire Terriers: $800-$10,000+
Beyond the initial cost, you’ll need to budget for ongoing expenses like vet visits, vaccinations, grooming, food, toys, and other supplies. Pet insurance can also help you pay for unexpected vet bills if your dog gets sick or injured.
In Conclusion
Silky Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers both make fantastic companion animals. Each breed has its own unique personality, grooming requirements, and exercise needs.
Before deciding which dog is right for you, take some time to think about your lifestyle and what you want in a canine companion. Do some research to find a reputable breeder, or consider adopting a dog in need of a loving home.
Remember that owning a dog is a long-term commitment. Be prepared to provide plenty of love, care, and attention for many years to come.