The 60-second version of the Australian Silky Terrier: what they're like, what they need, and whether one would suit your home — written for Australian owners.
Australian Silky Terrier at a glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed group | Toy/Terrier |
| Weight | 3.5–4.5 kg |
| Lifespan | 13–15 years |
| Energy | Moderate to high |
| Coat | Long, silky blue and tan |
| Grooming | Daily brushing or regular clipping |
| Shedding | Very low |
| Good with kids | Better with older kids — small and proud |
| Puppy price (AU) | $1,200–$2,500 |
| Insurance (AU) | ~$35–$60/month |
Living with a Australian Silky Terrier in Australia
The Silky Terrier is one of Australia’s few home-grown breeds — developed in Sydney from Yorkshire and Australian Terrier stock, combining glamour with genuine ratting instinct. They’re bolder and busier than their looks suggest: proper terriers that happen to wear silk. The coat needs daily attention or a practical clip, and the terrier independence means training is a partnership. For Australians wanting a native breed with sparkle, the Silky is a point of pride.
Health watch-outs
A long-lived Aussie with the toy-terrier list:
- Luxating patellas and tracheal collapse — harness walks; keep them lean.
- Legg-Perthes and diabetes — seen in the breed.
- Dental disease — small mouths; daily brushing.
Budget at a glance
- Puppy price: typically $1,200–$2,500 from a registered breeder — much lower offers are often scams.
- Insurance: around $35–$60/month — see our pet insurance cost guide for what shapes premiums.
- Grooming is the main recurring cost — daily brushing or regular clips.
Is a Australian Silky Terrier right for you?
Great fit if you… ✅
- Australians wanting a home-grown breed
- Terrier lovers in small spaces
- Owners who enjoy grooming
Think twice if… ⚠️
- More terrier than toy — attitude included
- The silky coat tangles fast without care
Keep exploring
🍖 Best food: See our dog food picks — chosen for Australian conditions and budgets
🛡️ Insurance: What pet insurance costs in Australia — breed-by-breed premium guidance