Are Silky Terriers Hypoallergenic?

Without a doubt! The Australian Silky Terrier makes the best companion as this is allergy-friendly. Its distinguished smooth, shiny, and silky coat feel the same as that of human hair. This Terrier is a cross between the Australian Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier so you get both of the parents’ characteristics in one furry package.

Don’t be fooled by its appearance though for this elegant little dog has a big personality. But even though this dog breed is feisty, it still shows a lot of affection to its owners. This is a walking paradox as you can experience a combination of having a lap dog and a big dog. This is because as much as it enjoys cuddling with you, the outdoor activities excite it as well. The instinct to play and hunt overpowers anytime it is given the chance.

Silkies are packed with action, curiosity, playfulness, and other certain traits that make them interesting. If you are thinking of getting one for yourself and you worry about having a family member that has allergies, a Silky Terrier puppy will not aggravate it.

A lot of questions may have formed in your mind already, but just keep reading! This article will help you learn more about this specific hypoallergenic dog breed and aid you in your decision of getting one in the future.

Table of Contents

Does a Silky Terrier Shed?

All dogs understandably shed an amount of fur, however, this pooch is one of the breeds that sheds the least. Its shedding rate is too low which makes it a hypoallergenic dog. There are little to no hairs that fall off and the amount of dander is significantly low.

Although Silky Terriers hardly shed, if ever they do, it usually happens during spring and fall. It is also important to take note that albeit they are ideal companions for people with allergies, there is no such thing as a 100 percent hypoallergenic dog.

Do Silky Terriers Have Hair or Fur?

It is often associated that dogs are covered with fur whilst it is hair for humans. However, technically, they are just the same with different references. In structure, however, human hair is thinner compared to that of furry mammals such as the Silky Terriers.

In addition regarding their fur, the coat of Silky Terriers happens to be silky and it is simply because they have no undercoats. Since undercoats are necessary to fight cold climates, a snuggle with your puppy or adult Silky Terrier is perfect during winter.

What Are the Characteristics of a Silky Terrier?

One of the Silky Terrier’s physical characteristics that are attention-grabbing is its remarkably long and silky hair. If you know of a friend who owns one, don’t

skip the chance of actually feeling how its coat feels like! You will be amazed how it exactly has the texture of real human hair.

Silky dogs have a very distinct look. Oftentimes, you will see them with hairs that reach the ground. Personally, that look is much more preferred instead of giving it a puppy cut. The distinctive appearance is seen as part of the Silkies’ trademark. However, sticking to its traditional look should not compromise its grooming needs despite its low capacity to shed.

American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes several Silky Terrier Colors. These includes:

Blue & tan
Grey & tan
Black & tan
Silver & tan
Silver Black & tan

Several owners enjoy owning a Silky for many reasons such as its natural grandiose look that is oftentimes enhanced by putting different fashion accessories to it. Sunglasses, luggage tags, jewelry, you name it, Silky Terriers seem to have an innate sense of fashion modeling!

In most cases, they also present different hair looks. The hair on their head is usually parted down in the middle and hair accessories are clipped between their erect and alert-looking ears.

Silky Terrier Temperament: Does This Hypoallergenic Breed Make Good Family Dogs?

Just like the other similar breeds such as the Maltese Terriers and Scottish Terriers, the Silky Terrier is full of vigor, alertness, and affection. They are naturally curious and they always have the energy to explore nature. Whenever there are things going on, Silkies tend to ensure they get involved!

Since they have a high energy level, these dogs might stumble or run across anywhere inside your house or apartment. Luckily, there is no need to worry about little dog hairs sticking on your couch and other furniture. Their non-existing undercoat cannot trigger any of your family members who have allergies which makes them great companions.

If they’re around kids, it’s still much better to be cautious. If it isn’t their coats that may cause a worry, the way kids play with them might be. Silkies are sensitive dogs that may not be able to deal well with rough plays so overseeing your kids around your dogs is always a better idea. Despite their strongly displayed tough persona, these little dogs prefer gentle treatment.

Meanwhile, in terms of interaction with other pets, the Silky Terrier might not respond positively to it especially toward small animals. The presence of tiny animals such as kittens or rabbits can highly kick their instincts to chase after them. In terms of dealing with other dogs, Silky dogs may show aggressiveness towards same-sex pets or become generally bossy.

Depending on how it has been raised as a Silky pup, this dog breed still has the willingness to coexist.

How to Take Care of Your Silky Terrier’s Coat and Health

Silky Terriers require a lot of care and attention and these can be shown in many ways such as having a regular visit to the vet or giving it plenty of exercises.

Even though Silky Terriers are little bundles of fur, taking care of them isn’t an easy task. Although this may be challenging, committed owners experience a healthier relationship with their companions, thus resulting in a mutually happier environment.

To make sure that your Silky avoids any unwanted diseases or behaviors in the future, below lists an overview of what they need.

Grooming

This task may seem daunting considering its long coat. However, grooming must be done regularly as this results in a healthier appearance and at the same time minimizes the chance of having hair breakages and skin infections- Yikes!

This also prevents your dog’s coat from matting which can be a breeding place for different kinds of bacteria, ticks, or fleas! Now, even though Silky Terriers are hypoallergenic dogs, if their coats have matted for a long time, any family member who is allergic to fleas will, of course, have a reaction. Hence why dog hygiene is significant.

If your Silky terrier dog competes in shows, there is a need to groom it according to the standards of the breed. If there isn’t much time for a standard breed grooming regimen, you may opt for a low maintenance coat which can be done by cutting its hair shorter.

All grooming supplies from scissors to shampoo must be appropriate for your dog to avoid injuries or skin dryness. It is also important to know how to properly groom and bathe your Silky dog, but don’t worry if you don’t! You may also bring your dog to a professional groomer and everything will be done for you.

Food

Silky Terrier dogs are little tricksters especially when it comes down to food! It is common to know that what they eat will affect their appearance and health so feeding them must be based upon their physical condition. Although their risk of having thyroid diseases is low, it is always better to assess their current health status to see any signs of hyperthyroidism.

Photo from: *rockythesilky_official* *(IG)*

Hyperthyroidism in dogs particularly in Silky pups can cause loss or thinness of fur and worse is excessive shedding. If clinically diagnosed, bringing your pup to the vet can aid you especially on the kind of diet that fits your pup’s needs.

Training

Silky Terriers are smart dogs. Due to their high intelligence level, training them won’t be as hard as you may think. Thankfully, what makes it even easier to train them is their excitement in receiving rewards! What dog would not want to receive a snack every after successfully taking up a command? Silkies definitely enjoy seeing their owners pleased with them.

It is also a gateway to bond and interact with their owners and with anyone. With them being non-allergenic, there is no need to constantly fear triggering allergies whilst training a Silky Terrier who loves the game of fetch!

Exercise

Dogs such as the Silky Terriers generally need to keep moving depending on their body sizes. Exercises help improve their physical and mental health. Silky dogs are naturally active and in for a game, so encouraging them through having a walk in the park is a good idea.

Anyone in your household can aid your dog in exercising and rest assured that it won’t be leaving any of your kids with a stuffy nose later on!

Common Health Issues on Silky Terriers

Unfortunately, like any other dogs, Silkies are not safe from health concerns. One among these is thyroid problems. If ever you notice any significant changes in your buddy’s behavior, energy level, and physical appearance, making an appointment with your vet must be done right away.

**Photo from:** *conehead.dave* ***(IG)***

When there are thyroid problems, one of the main targets it can negatively affect is its coat. Silky Terrier dogs have little to no tendencies of shedding, but if their bodies produce abnormal amounts of thyroid hormones, over shedding will occur.

Color Dilution Alopecia is also seen more frequently on Silkies compared to other breeds. Although there is no itch or pain, this condition invites bacterial infections which may greatly affect your pet. Currently, there is no cure yet, so prevention can be done through proper nutrition and regular check-ups.

Other potential health issues may include:

Tracheal Collapse
Retained Testicle
Skin Infections
Epilepsy
hip dysplasia

Are Silky Terriers Great as Family Pets?

Silky Terriers are great for anyone! Generally, they are very healthy dogs with a life span of 12 to 15 years. Their hypoallergenic quality makes them ideal companions for allergy sufferers. They’re intelligent, energetic, and most of all, affectionate little furry packages.

Silky pups and adults go along very well with kids as long as there is supervision and they are regularly trained and taught with good manners. If you frequently have visitors, they would be generally friendly to them too!

The only thing you’d have to consider is if there are other furry pets inside the house. Silky Terriers can act aggressively toward them. You can ask for advice from other Silky owners who have other four-legged pets in their homes.

On another note, Silkies are worth getting! You can adopt one from your nearest shelter home or contact a reputable breeder.