Silky Terrier 161

The Silky Terrier originated in Australia in the early 1900s. Although a mix of terriers was used, imported Yorkshire Terriers and native Australian Terriers were two of the main dog breeds used to establish the Silky Terrier, which is why they look similar.

As the breed became established in both Sydney and Victoria, Australia, two separate breed standards were created. It wouldn’t be until 1926 that these were condensed into one national standard. In 1955, this dog breed’s name in Australia was changed from the Sydney Silky Terrier to the Australian Silky Terrier.

They came to the United States shortly after and gained popularity as a companion dog. The American Kennel Club recognized the Silky Terrier in 1959 as a member of the Toy Group.