Australian Silky Terrier
Close to the Yorkie but slightly larger, the Silky Terrier is a small, silky-coated terrier that is lively, playful and affectionate.
Australian Silky Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier
Side by side
| Trait | Australian Silky Terrier | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Terriers | Terriers |
| Size | Toy | Toy |
| Weight | 3.5–4.5 kg | 2–3.2 kg |
| Height at withers | 23–26 cm | 18–23 cm |
| Life expectancy | 12–15 years | 13–16 years |
| Energy | ||
| With children | ||
| With other dogs | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Heat tolerance | ||
| Apartment | Yes | Yes |
Key differences
- Heavier: Australian Silky Terrier (about 4 kg vs 2.6 kg on average)
- Taller: Australian Silky Terrier (about 24.5 cm vs 20.5 cm on average)
Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.
Which one is right for you?
A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.
- Apartment living
- Both are similarBased on apartment suitability and energy.
- Family with children
- Australian Silky Terrier is the better fitBased on behaviour with children.
- First-time owner
- Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
- Hot climate
- Both are similarBased on heat tolerance.
- Active owner
- Both are similarBased on energy level.
Meet the two breeds
Yorkshire Terrier
A small dog with a silky coat and a terrier's spirit, the Yorkie is lively, cuddly and deeply attached to its owners. It sheds very little.