silky terrier, breed of agile, spirited toy dog originated in Australia in the early 20th cent. It stands about 10 in. (25 cm) high at the shoulder and weighs from 8 to 10 lb (3.6.-4.5 kg). Its silky, flat-lying hair is between 5 and 6 in. (12.7-15.2 cm) long and hangs straight down from the sides of the body. Its color is blue with tan markings on the face and legs and a silver or fawn topknot. The silky terrier resulted from crossings of Yorkshire terrier and Australian terrier. It has always been raised as a house pet and companion. See dog.