Yorkshire Terriers and Silky Terriers are popular small dog breeds. Both are terriers by heritage and share a similar size, making them great companion animals.
However, each breed has unique characteristics, and potential owners should consider these differences when deciding which breed is right for them.
This article compares and contrasts the Yorkshire Terrier and Silky Terrier, highlighting their similarities and differences in origin, appearance, temperament, activity level, and popularity. Keep reading to learn more about the differences between the Yorkie vs Silky.
Breed Origins: A Tale of Two Terriers
Although they look quite similar, Yorkshire Terriers and Silky Terriers come from different places and different breeding programs.
Yorkshire Terrier Origins
Yorkies were first bred in Yorkshire, England. They’re thought to have descended from a mix of different terrier breeds, and they were originally used to catch rats in mills and mines.
Over time, the spunky little dogs were refined and developed into the companion animals we know and love today.
Silky Terrier Origins
Silky Terriers were developed in Australia, where breeders crossed Australian Terriers with imported Yorkshire Terriers.
The goal was to create a distinctly Australian terrier breed, and so the Silky Terrier was born.
Size, Appearance, and Coloring: Distinguishing Features
While Yorkies and Silkies share some traits, their size, shape, and coloring offer clues for telling them apart.
Yorkshire Terrier: A Petite Package
Yorkies are tiny dogs, typically weighing between 4 and 7 pounds and standing only 8 or 9 inches tall. They’re known for their long, flowing, silky coats that change color as they mature. Puppies are born black and tan, and as they grow, their coats gradually transition to a distinctive blue and gold. Yorkies have compact bodies and erect, pointed ears, adding to their alert and perky appearance.
Silky Terrier: Slightly Larger and Sturdier
Silky Terriers are a tad larger than Yorkies, generally weighing between 8 and 10 pounds and standing around 10 inches tall. Like Yorkies, they have silky coats, but their coloring is typically tan and blue. Silky puppies may be born black, but they develop their characteristic coloring as they mature. Silkies have slightly longer bodies than Yorkies, and their ears are V-shaped and drop slightly, giving them a different expression.
Temperament: Yorkie vs. Silky
Both Yorkshire terriers and Silky terriers are known for their big personalities packed into small bodies. But there are some notable differences in their temperaments.
Yorkshire Terrier: Bold and Spirited
Yorkies are intelligent and adventurous dogs who also tend to be very protective of their people. They can be excitable and have a strong prey drive, so it’s important to start training and socializing them early.
It’s best to expose your Yorkie to a variety of people, places, and sounds when they’re young so they’ll grow into well-adjusted adults.
Silky Terrier: Affectionate and Energetic
Silky terriers are known for their friendly and affectionate personalities. However, they’re also high-energy dogs who need a lot of mental stimulation to stay happy.
Some Silkies can be prone to anxiety or territorial behavior, so early socialization is key. Also, like the Yorkie, the Silky has a strong prey drive, so you’ll want to make sure your yard has secure fencing.
Crate training can be very useful for Silky terriers, as can teaching them a reliable “quiet” command. It’s important to be consistent with your training and to use positive reinforcement methods.
Activity Level and Exercise Needs
Both Yorkies and Silkies need daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Yorkies do well with a couple of 15-20 minute walks each day. They also love to play! Be sure to provide your Yorkie with interactive toys to keep them entertained.
Silky Terriers, however, need a bit more. They require more intense exercise, so plan on longer walks, hikes, or games of fetch. Without enough to do, Silkies can get bored and may start to exhibit destructive behaviors. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for this breed.
Grooming: Keeping that silky coat in shape
Both Yorkies and Silkies need regular grooming to look their best. Neglecting their coats can lead to mats and tangles, which can be painful for your pup.
Yorkshire Terrier Grooming
- Yorkies need daily brushing to keep their long, flowing coats free of knots.
- Plan on bathing your Yorkie every one to two weeks.
- Many Yorkie owners opt for professional grooming to maintain the signature long coat, but it’s not strictly necessary.
Silky Terrier Grooming
- Like Yorkies, Silkies need regular brushing to prevent mats.
- They don’t need to be bathed as often as Yorkies.
- You may want to trim your Silky’s coat to maintain its shape.
Breed Popularity and Recognition
Yorkies are consistently popular dogs. The American Kennel Club (AKC) has ranked them as one of the top 10 most popular breeds in the United States for years.
Silky Terriers, on the other hand, have seen their popularity decline. While they were once more common, the AKC ranked them at #112 in 2022, suggesting they are becoming less well-known and sought-after as pets.
Fun Facts
Yorkies and Silkies are both charming dogs with tons of personality. Here are some fun facts about each breed:
- A Yorkshire Terrier named Smoky became a war hero during WWII. She served as a therapy dog, visiting wounded soldiers in hospitals.
- Taz, a Silky Terrier, appeared on the reality TV show “Project Runway All-Stars,” accompanying one of the designers.
Both breeds make excellent companions, and their small size makes them ideal for apartment living. They’re also known for being intelligent and relatively easy to train.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my dog is a Yorkie?
Yorkies are small dogs, typically weighing under 7 pounds, with a long, silky coat that’s parted down their back. They often have a blue and tan or black and tan coloration. If your dog matches these characteristics, especially with their personality and energy level, they may be a Yorkie.
What are the three types of Yorkies?
While there aren’t officially recognized “types,” Yorkies are often informally categorized by size: Teacup, Toy, and Standard. Teacup Yorkies are the smallest, bred to be under 4 pounds. Toy Yorkies are slightly larger, and Standard Yorkies are within the breed standard of 4-7 pounds. These size differences are often due to breeding practices.
Do Yorkies have Silky hair?
Yes, a defining characteristic of Yorkies is their long, silky, and flowing coat. Their hair is similar in texture to human hair and requires regular grooming to prevent matting. This silky coat is a trademark of the breed and contributes to their elegant appearance.
What is the difference between a Yorkie and a Silky Terrier?
Yorkshire Terriers (Yorkies) and Silky Terriers are distinct breeds, though they share a common ancestry. While both have silky coats, Silky Terriers are typically larger, weighing 8-11 pounds. Silkies also have a longer body and a slightly coarser coat texture compared to the finer, more delicate coat of a Yorkie. Their personalities also differ slightly, with Silkies often being more independent.
To Conclude
Yorkies and Silky Terriers share a similar heritage, but they have distinct differences in appearance, coat, and temperament. When choosing between these two breeds, it’s vital to think about your lifestyle and what you’re looking for in a dog.
Before you make a decision, be sure to do plenty of research on both breeds. Ideally, you should meet a few Yorkies and Silky Terriers in person to get a better sense of their personalities and needs.
Ultimately, both Yorkies and Silky Terriers can make wonderful companions for the right owners. With careful consideration, you can find the perfect furry friend to share your life with.