What is a Yorkie silky mix?

Yorkie mixes are a unique hybrid of the two breeds. Both Yorkies and silky terriers have curly coats and long ears, but the Yorkie is considered a toy dog because it’s much smaller than its larger cousin, the silky terrier. While the Yorkie may seem similar to the Yorkie, this crossbreed is not purebred. So when you find yourself trying to identify a Yorkie or a silky terrier mix, just remember that this is a mix between the two breeds.

How much is a Silky Terrier puppy?

How much is a Silky Terrier puppy? I’m going to tell you: $500. But that’s a lot of money for a dog who might not even live to be three years old. And you need to consider the costs involved with taking care of a dog that may not be able to survive beyond that age. So, if you’re thinking about getting a puppy for yourself or someone else, check out all the costs before you decide.

Are silky terriers good family dogs?

As a family pet, silky terriers are often recommended as being good for children because of the fact that they don’t shed hair as much as some other breeds. They are also known for being affectionate and friendly. Many families love the idea of getting their kids and themselves a puppy or kitten, but the reality is that sometimes there is no easy way around it. Getting a puppy or kitten can be expensive, and it may not always end up working out in the long run. Some people just don’t have the room for a dog or cat, or the time or desire to properly care for a pet.

Is a Yorkie a good first dog?

Yorkies are small, affectionate dogs that usually weigh between 10 and 16 pounds. They’re known for being smart and playful, and they’re sometimes called “Pomeranians with feet.” These dogs originated in England, and are among the oldest breeds in the world. Yorkies are very loving, but they do require a lot of attention.

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Yorkie vs Silky Terrier: Key Differences Explained

Want to know the difference between a Yorkie and a Silky Terrier? These two breeds look similar at first glance, but they have distinct physical traits, temperaments, and care needs. Here’s what you need to know to decide which breed is right for your family.

Are Yorkies and Silky Terriers the Same Breed?

No. While both are small terriers with silky coats, they are completely different breeds. Yorkies originated in Yorkshire, England during the Industrial Revolution, while Silky Terriers were developed in Australia in the early 1900s by crossing Yorkies with local Australian Terriers. The Australian breeders wanted a slightly larger, more robust dog suited to the Australian climate.

This distinction matters because it shaped their physical traits, energy levels, and temperaments in different ways.

Yorkie Size and Appearance

Weight: 4 to 7 pounds (some are bred smaller, but this is the standard)

Height: 6 to 9 inches

Yorkies are tiny dogs with delicate frames. Their signature feature is a long, silky coat that’s typically steel blue and tan in color. The hair on their head flows long and is often tied back with a bow. Their ears are small and perky, standing upright with fine hair.

Most importantly, Yorkies have tails. The tail is naturally curved and carried high, though historically many Yorkies had their tails docked short (a tradition that’s becoming less common). The coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks.

What’s The Difference Between A Yorkie And A Silky Terrier: Silky Terrier Size and Appearance

Weight: 8 to 10 pounds

Height: 9 to 10 inches

Silky Terriers are noticeably larger and sturdier than Yorkies, though still small dogs. Like Yorkies, they have a long, silky coat that’s typically blue and tan, but their coat texture is slightly coarser. Their ears are small and upright (not floppy). Their tail is medium length, carried high, and often has a slight curl or hook at the tip.

The biggest visual difference? The Silky has a longer, more substantial muzzle and a slightly larger head compared to the Yorkie’s delicate features. Silkies also have more muscle tone and a sturdier bone structure overall.

Temperament and Exercise Needs

Yorkies are spunky, bold, and confident despite their small size. They’re alert and make surprisingly good watchdogs. Yorkies are intelligent but can be stubborn and independent. They do well in apartments and don’t require extensive exercise, though they enjoy play and mental stimulation.

Silky Terriers have more energy than Yorkies and were bred as working dogs on Australian farms. They’re playful and affectionate but also spirited and can be harder to train. Silkies need more consistent exercise and mental enrichment than Yorkies. They’re less suited to sedentary lifestyles and do better with active families or people who can provide daily playtime.

Health Considerations

Both breeds share some common health concerns because of their small size and shared ancestry:

Patellar luxation (knee issues)
Dental problems (small dogs have crowded teeth)
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar in puppies)
Tracheal collapse (breathing issues in older dogs)

Yorkies tend to live 13 to 16 years. Silky Terriers typically live 12 to 15 years. Regular veterinary checkups, quality nutrition, and preventive care are essential for both breeds.

If you’re curious about your dog’s genetic background or want to check for breed-specific health issues, consider getting a DNA test. Embark’s Breed and Health Test screens for over 200 health conditions and gives you a full breakdown of your dog’s ancestry.

Which Breed Is Right for You?

Choose a Yorkie if you:

Want a truly tiny companion dog
Live in an apartment or smaller space
Prefer a dog with lower exercise needs
Like a bold, confident personality
Can commit to regular grooming

Choose a Silky Terrier if you:

Want a slightly larger (but still small) dog
Have an active lifestyle
Don’t mind a dog with more independent spirit
Can provide consistent training and exercise
Have space for a more energetic terrier

Both breeds make wonderful family pets, but understanding these differences helps ensure you pick the right match for your lifestyle.

Want to Celebrate Your Pup’s Unique Look?

Whether you have a Yorkie, a Silky Terrier, or a mix of both, why not create a stunning AI portrait? Our AI Portraits tool generates custom artwork of your dog in dozens of styles from Renaissance paintings to fantasy scenes. It’s the perfect way to show off your pup’s personality.