Silkese

Silktese

Purpose

Companion

Breed Type : Crossbreeds

Breed Size: Small

The Silkese is a delightful small hybrid breed resulting from the crossbreeding of a Silky Terrier and a Maltese. This adorable dog features long, silky fur that comes in a variety of colors, such as black, brown, white, golden, and various combinations. Typically, Silkese dogs reach a height of about 8 to 10 inches and can weigh up to 14 pounds. They are wonderful family companions, recognized for their playful, loving, and energetic demeanor, which makes them great with children. Being a small breed, they don’t require extensive exercise; a little daily playtime is enough to keep them happy.

Breed Origin

The Silkese is a designer dog breed that results from the crossbreeding of a Silky Terrier and a Maltese. However, information regarding the origins of this hybrid is limited. The Silky Terrier itself has a history that traces back to 1890 in Australia, where it was developed from a combination of Australian Terriers and imported Yorkshire Terriers. The first breed standard was established in Sydney, New South Wales, in 1906, followed by another in Victoria in 1909. These standards varied until a unified one was adopted in 1926. Originally called the Sydney Silky Terrier, the breed was officially renamed the Australian Silky Terrier in 1955, a name it retains in Australia, while in the United States, it is simply known as the Silky Terrier. The American Kennel Club granted recognition to this breed in 1959. The Maltese, one of the oldest toy breeds, has a rich history that spans over two millennia, yet its exact origins remain somewhat mysterious. There are several theories suggesting that the breed may have originated in Malta, Italy, or even Asia. Throughout ancient Egyptian, Roman, and Greek civilizations, these dogs were often depicted in art and literature, with Aristotle himself referencing them. The Greeks honored Maltese dogs with elaborate tombs, while Egyptians illustrated similar canines on various artifacts, showcasing their admiration. It was believed by both Egyptians and later Europeans that Maltese dogs had healing properties, leading to the practice of placing them on the pillows of the sick, which earned them the nickname “The Comforter.” By the 15th century, the Maltese had become a beloved companion of French aristocrats. They were introduced to Great Britain during the reign of Henry VIII and gained popularity among royal and noble women by the late 16th century. Esteemed figures such as Queen Elizabeth, Mary Queen of Scots, and Queen Victoria were known admirers of this breed, which was frequently portrayed in paintings by artists like Goya and Sir Joshua Reynolds. However, during the 17th and 18th centuries, breeders nearly drove the Maltese to extinction in their quest to create an even smaller version, resembling a squirrel. To revive the breed, it became essential to cross them with miniature Spaniels, Poodles, and East Asian toy breeds, leading to the emergence of several new breeds. The Maltese we recognize today was shaped by English breeders, and the breed gained significant popularity in the United States in the late 1800s, receiving official recognition from the American Kennel Club in 1888.

Breed Appearance

The Silkese is a charming toy breed that resembles a teddy bear, boasting long, silky, straight fur. This delightful dog comes in a variety of colors, such as brown, golden, cream, black, gray, and numerous combinations of these hues. Weighing up to 14 pounds and standing between 8 to 12 inches tall, they feature small, dark-rimmed eyes. Their ears are fluffy and can either hang down or stand erect. With a slightly rounded head and a flat muzzle that ends in a rounded black nose, they have a robust build despite their petite size, marked by square shoulders and an endearing curly tail. Their lively movement showcases a spirited and determined character.

Care Routine

The Silkese breed requires significant grooming due to its long, delicate fur. Their coats are susceptible to tangling and matting, so it’s essential to address these problems quickly to avoid skin irritation and discomfort caused by pulling. Daily grooming not only helps prevent mats and tangles but also eliminates dead and loose hair. To keep their coat healthy and looking good, regular trimming is important. Since they can become dirty rapidly, frequent baths may be necessary, sometimes as often as once a week. Before bathing, it’s best to gently detangle any knots with your fingers and brush your dog to facilitate the process, as skipping this step can make tangles harder to manage. Additionally, checking their ears weekly and cleaning them with a cloth to remove moisture is advisable. If you detect any unpleasant odors from their ears, a trip to the veterinarian is recommended. Nail trimming should occur once or twice a month, and daily brushing of their teeth is crucial for maintaining dental health.

Behavior & Temperament

These small dogs are energetic and affectionate companions. The Silkese is enthusiastic about learning and generally responds well to commands, which simplifies the training process. It is crucial to provide proper training; without it, they might develop domineering tendencies and become wary of unfamiliar people and animals. They are wonderful family pets, flourishing in the presence of both children and older adults, as long as they receive consistent interaction. These dogs love spending time with their families and participating in playful activities. With a natural curiosity, they tend to dig and may bark at strangers and other animals. Furthermore, they are likely to inherit the hunting instincts characteristic of the Silky Terrier.

Play & Exercise

The Silkese is a small toy breed that doesn't require extensive exercise or long walks due to its petite stature. These dogs flourish in indoor environments and adapt well to compact living spaces. Nevertheless, to keep them healthy and content, they do need regular play sessions and short walks several times a day. Ideally, a daily stroll of around 45 minutes is recommended. They also enjoy outdoor activities, particularly digging, so visiting a park or a yard can be a great source of fun for them. It's important to shield these dogs from extreme weather conditions, as they are especially vulnerable to both high and low temperatures.

Things to Know

Cups Per Day

1.5 Cups

Daily Activity

45 Minutes

Average Lifespan

14 Years

Origin

Unknown

Type

Crossbreeds

Size

Small

Origin Country

Uknown

Brush Frequency

Daily

Coat Texture

Straight

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Height & Weight

Weight

11 lbs (5 kg)

Male: 12 lbs (5 kg) , Female: 10 lbs (5 kg)

Height

10 inches (25 sm)

Male: 11 inches (28 sm) , Female: 9 inches (23 sm)

6 Months

7 lbs

7 inches

7 lbs ( m 7 lbs, f 7 lbs )

7 inches ( m 7 inches, f 7 inches )

12 Months

9 lbs

8 inches

9 lbs ( m 9 lbs, f 9 lbs )

8 inches ( m 8 inches, f 8 inches )

18 Months