Silky Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier: Understanding the Key Differences
Contrasting coats and personalities shape which petite companion suits your lifestyle.
Silky Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier: What’s the Difference?
While both the Silky Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier charm dog lovers with their similar appearance and playful personalities, they are distinct breeds with subtle but important differences. This comprehensive comparison will help you understand their origins, physical traits, temperaments, grooming needs, health, and which breed may better fit your household.
Breed Origins
Despite their likeness, the Yorkshire Terrier and Silky Terrier have different roots shaped by their respective histories.
- Yorkshire Terrier: Originated in northern England in the 19th century. These feisty little dogs were bred by Scottish and English weavers to catch rats in textile mills and coal mines. They owe much of their lineage to various terriers, especially the now-extinct Clydesdale and Paisley Terriers.
- Silky Terrier (Australian Silky Terrier): Developed in Australia around the late 1800s and early 1900s. The breed resulted from crossing Yorkshire Terriers with Australian Terriers, aiming for a companion dog with a beautiful coat and lively terrier attitude.
Physical Appearance
At first glance, Silky and Yorkshire Terriers appear almost identical, but closer inspection reveals telling differences in size, build, coat, and key features.
Size and Weight
| Breed | Height | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Yorkshire Terrier | 6â8 inches (15â20 cm) | 4â7 pounds (1.8â3.2 kg) |
| Silky Terrier | 9â10 inches (22â25 cm) | 8â11 pounds (3.6â5 kg) |
The Silky Terrier is generally taller, longer, and more robust than the petite Yorkie, which tends to be very light and compact.
Head & Facial Features
- Yorkshire Terrier: Rounded skull, short muzzle, and small, dark eyes give a sweet, delicate look.
- Silky Terrier: More wedge-shaped head, slightly longer muzzle, and larger, more durable teethâa nod to the breed’s Australian Terrier influence.
Coat and Color
Both breeds sport fine, straight, shiny coats that resemble human hair. However, differences exist in color, texture, and grooming:
- Yorkshire Terrier: The breed standard allows for just four color combinations: Black & Gold, Black & Tan, Blue & Gold, and Blue & Tan. Puppies are born black/tan and mature into their signature steel-blue shade on the body and tail, with rich golden-tan on the face, chest, and legs. Yorkies shown in conformation rings often have very long, floor-length coats topped with a distinctive bow.
- Silky Terrier: Offers wider color variety, including Black, Blue, Blue Silver, Gray, Fawn, Cream, Platinum, and moreâall with tan or cream points. The coat is typically shorter than a Yorkieâs, and on the head, the hair is more profuse but not excessively long. The Silkyâs coat is parted down the middle rather than gathered into a topknot.
Other Physical Traits
- Build: Silky Terriers have a longer, lower body build, appearing more streamlined than the square-proportioned Yorkie.
- Tail: Both breeds often have docked tails, although tail docking is illegal in some countries. Their tails naturally carry a slight curve.
Personality & Temperament
Though similar in many ways, the two breeds show subtle variations in their temperament and energy levels, a reflection of their origins and selective breeding.
- Yorkshire Terrier: Known for being feisty, assertive, and brave. Their “big dog” personality contrasts with their small sizeâthey are loyal, affectionate, and protective, making them vigilant watchdogs. Yorkies can sometimes be headstrong or stubborn, but they thrive on companionship and affection.
- Silky Terrier: Equally spirited and lively, with an alert, inquisitive nature. Silkies are playful, affectionate, and eager for human interaction, yet sometimes slightly more easygoing than Yorkies. They too have a watchdog instinct and bark at unfamiliar sights or sounds.
What others are reading
Both breeds are highly intelligent and learn quickly, though they need positive reinforcement and consistent training to curb willfulness and excessive barking.
Exercise and Activity Requirements
Despite their size, both breeds are energetic and require daily exercise to prevent boredom and problematic behaviors.
- Short walks and vigorous play suit both Yorkies and Silkies.
- Both enjoy interactive games, puzzle toys, and mental stimulation.
- Silky Terriers, given their higher activity drive, may need slightly more exercise and outside time.
Grooming Needs
Keeping their luxurious coats in top shape requires dedication:
- Yorkshire Terrier: Needs daily brushing to prevent mats, especially if the coat is kept long. Professional grooming every 4â6 weeks is recommended. Regular cleaning of ears and trimming of nails are essential.
- Silky Terrier: Also requires frequent brushing (at least several times a week) and professional grooming to keep fur clean and tangle-free. The coat is a bit more manageable due to its slightly shorter length.
- Both breeds are considered hypoallergenic owing to minimal sheddingâgood options for many allergy sufferers.
Health and Lifespan
Both breeds are generally robust, but potential owners should be aware of inherited health challenges.
- Average lifespan: 12â16 years for both breeds.
- Common health issues for Yorkshire Terriers: dental problems, tracheal collapse, legg-calvé-perthes disease, luxating patella, hypothyroidism.
- Common health issues for Silky Terriers: similar to Yorkies: patellar luxation, tracheal collapse, epilepsy, and some skin conditions.
- Both breeds may suffer from dental issues due to small mouthsâregular brushing and dental check-ups are important.
- Yorkies, being smaller and more fragile, are more susceptible to injury and should be carefully supervised around young children and larger animals.
Suitability for Families and Other Pets
Choosing between a Silky and Yorkshire Terrier depends on lifestyle, household composition, and expectations for your new companion.
- Best for households with: Adults, families with older children, or singles looking for a devoted companion. Due to their hunting background and strong prey drive, neither is ideal for homes with rodents or other small non-canine pets.
- Caution with young children: Both breeds are small and can be accidentally injured if play is rough.
- Other pets: Tolerate other dogs if socialized early, but may chase or assert dominance if not properly introduced.
Training Differences
Both breeds are intelligent and eager to please but may have a stubborn streak. They respond well to gentle, consistent training with positive reinforcement techniques.
- Yorkies may present a bit more of a challenge due to their independent streak.
- Silkies tend to be quick learners when motivated but can become easily boredâshort, fun training sessions are best for both.
Price and Availability
- Yorkshire Terriers: Very popular worldwide and among the more sought-after companion dogs in the US and UKâthis typically makes them easier to find from reputable breeders and rescue organizations.
- Silky Terriers: Less common outside Australia but available through select breeders and some rescues.
- Both breeds can be expensive, especially for puppies with show-quality pedigrees.
Silky Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier: Key Comparison Table
| Trait | Yorkshire Terrier | Silky Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | England | Australia |
| Average Height | 6â8 inches | 9â10 inches |
| Average Weight | 4â7 pounds | 8â11 pounds |
| Coat Length | Very long (floor length in show dogs) | A bit shorter and profuse, never âfloor lengthâ |
| Coat Colors | Narrow range: Blue & tan/gold/black | Wider range mixing blue, silver, cream, fawn |
| Head Shape | Round skull, short muzzle | Wedge-shaped head, longer muzzle |
| Temperament | Feisty, bold, affectionate | Playful, inquisitive, affectionate |
| Shedding/Hypoallergenic | Low/minimal | Low/minimal |
| Suitability | Best for adults, older children | Best for adults, older children |
| Popularity | Very popular globally | Less common |
Choosing the Right Breed for Your Home
Before committing to either breed, consider these factors:
- If you want a more petite lapdog, the Yorkshire Terrier may suit you best.
- If you prefer a slightly larger companion who needs just a bit more activity, the Silky Terrier could be the right match.
- Both breeds require regular grooming, daily exercise, training, and socialization to flourish as family companions.
- Allergies? Both may be suitable, but no breed is completely hypoallergenic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are Yorkies and Silky Terriers hypoallergenic?
Both breeds are considered hypoallergenic as they shed very little. Their fine, human-like hair makes them a reasonable choice for many allergy sufferers, but individuals with severe allergies should spend time around the breed before adopting to ensure compatibility.
Can Yorkies and Silky Terriers live with other pets?
Both breeds can live harmoniously with other dogs if properly socialized. Due to their strong prey drive, caution is advised around small animalsâlike rodents, rabbits, and birdsâas they may attempt to chase. Early socialization is key for managing prey instinct.
How much exercise do these breeds need?
Despite their small size, Silky Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers need regular daily exercise. Two short walks and sessions of play or mental stimulation will help keep them at their happiest and healthiest.
Are these breeds good with kids?
With older, respectful children, both breeds thrive. Their small size makes them vulnerable to accidental injury, so supervision is essential around younger kids.
How much grooming is required?
Daily brushing, regular professional grooming every few weeks, and routine maintenance of ears, teeth, and nails are necessary for both breeds. The Yorkshire Terrierâs coat is longer and requires a little more daily care if kept in its traditional show length.
Conclusion
For those seeking a charming, loyal, and intelligent companion, both the Silky Terrier and Yorkshire Terrier are excellent choices. Take time to consider your householdâs needs, grooming commitment, and living arrangements to ensure your new best friend finds the perfect forever home.
References
- https://waggstoriches.com/silky-terrier-vs-yorkshire-terrier/
- https://www.yorkieinfocenter.com/yorkshire-terrier-vs-silky-terrier
- https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/blog/pets/silky-terrier-vs-yorkie-terrier/
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/yorkshire-terrier-vs-silky-terrier/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT_dR1Aougg
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