Understanding the Health and Care of the Australian Silky Terrier

Quick answer

The Australian Silky Terrier is a spirited and intelligent companion that forms strong bonds with family members. While generally robust, the breed is known to experience specific health challenges including joint issues, airway concerns, and dental requirements. By staying vigilant for changes in movement, breathing, or oral health, owners can provide proactive care that significantly enhances their dog's quality of life.

Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of its normal groove. This is well recognised in the breed. Owners often notice this when their dog suddenly skips a step during a walk or holds a back leg up for a few seconds before returning to normal movement. At home, you might hear a clicking sound as the dog moves. When you visit the clinic, the vet will physically manipulate the knee to assess how easily the kneecap moves out of place. If the condition is severe, the dog may show persistent limping or difficulty straightening the leg. The primary mistake owners make is assuming the skipping is just a quirk of the dog's personality rather than a mechanical issue. If your dog frequently holds a leg up, have it assessed to prevent long-term cartilage wear.

Tracheal Collapse

Tracheal collapse involves the weakening of the rings that support the windpipe, causing it to flatten. This is well recognised in the breed. The most common sign is a dry, harsh cough that often sounds like a goose honk, particularly when the dog is excited or pulling on a leash. Many owners mistakenly believe their dog has something stuck in its throat. A vet will typically use chest X-rays or a specialized camera to visualize the airway. The most critical factor for management is avoiding pressure on the neck. Always use a harness rather than a collar to prevent further irritation of the windpipe.

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

This condition affects the hip joint, specifically the head of the thigh bone, which begins to degenerate. This is well recognised in the breed. You will likely notice a gradual onset of lameness in one of the hind legs. The dog may show signs of pain when you touch the hip area or struggle to jump onto furniture. A vet will use X-rays to confirm the diagnosis by looking for changes in the bone structure of the hip joint. Because this causes significant discomfort, early detection is vital. If your dog shows a persistent limp that does not resolve within a few days, it requires a professional examination to determine if the hip joint is compromised.

Dental Issues

Small breeds often face challenges with overcrowding and tartar accumulation. This is well recognised in the breed. You might notice bad breath, red or swollen gums, or a reluctance to eat hard food. Owners often wait until the dog stops eating to seek help, but by then, the disease is usually advanced. A vet will perform a thorough oral exam and likely recommend professional cleaning under anesthesia to remove plaque below the gum line. The most common owner mistake is failing to start a brushing routine early in the dog's life. Regular brushing is the only way to effectively manage the buildup of bacteria in the mouth.

Color Dilution Alopecia

This condition affects the hair follicles and leads to thinning hair or patches of hair loss. How this passes down is not settled. You will notice the coat becoming brittle or sparse, often starting along the back or sides. It is not typically painful, but it can lead to secondary skin infections if the skin becomes irritated. A vet will often perform skin scrapings or biopsies to rule out other causes like parasites or hormonal imbalances. While there is no cure, the focus is on maintaining skin health through specialized shampoos and supplements. Do not attempt to treat hair loss with over-the-counter products without a diagnosis, as this can mask underlying infections.