Silky Terrier health: what owners should know
Conditions the Silky Terrier is known to be prone to, breeder screening and everyday habits that help.
Silky owners should know about several conditions seen more often in the breed: luxating patellas, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, tracheal collapse, diabetes, allergies and dental disease. Responsible breeders screen knees and eyes, and some also check hips and thyroid function.
Daily tooth brushing, a harness on walks and a trim waistline prevent a lot of trouble. See a vet if you notice a honking cough, a hind leg held up or skipped, increased thirst or urination, persistent itching or bad breath with red gums.
Numbers worth knowing
Life expectancy
13 to 15 yrs
Senior care
Individual assessment
age alone does not define care needs
Typical breed weight
4 to 5 kg