Yorkshire Terrier vs Silky Terrier

Though small and cute with flowing locks, the Yorkshire Terrier is a smart, spunky dog who isn’t aware of their diminutive stature. Originally bred to hunt rodents before becoming popular as lapdogs, the Yorkie retains much of that tough terrier ‘tude (and bark) today. These confident pups might just take full command of the household if you let them, not-so-gently letting you know when it’s time to wake up, put the food out and go for a walk.

Fortunately, this smart breed is eager to please, making them a quick study when it comes to dog training. With early training and plenty of opportunities for social interactions with humans and canines from a young age, Yorkies can be a loyal, playful and friendly best bud. However, they aren’t great with young kids and babies—or, rather, young children aren’t great with them, especially those who like to play rough and haven’t been taught how to respect a dog’s boundaries. As with any dog, be sure to supervise encounters to ensure a safe and positive playtime.

Yorkshire Terriers don’t mind being handled and carried, so they’re some of the most portable pups around. But be careful not to coddle them too much. Yorkshire Terriers still need exercise and independence so that they don’t grow afraid to be out of your arms. In fact, because Yorkies bond so closely with their people, many Yorkie parents get two so they can keep each other company.

Silky Terriers love being with their people, whether hanging out at home, running errands or going into the office with you. They can suffer from separation anxiety, so if you’re going to be gone for long, consider checking them into doggy daycare or arranging for a neighbor or pet sitter to swing by for some playtime.

This pup has a sparkly personality and loves to play and will perform all sorts of tricks for a treat. But they do have that traditional “terrier temperament,” which is feisty and bold. These traits endear them to their families, but without proper training and exercise, their boldness and feistiness may look a lot like stubbornness and attitude.

With proper socialization and training, these pups do well with kids and other dogs. This breed isn’t known for being aggressive or biters, but they will defend themselves if they feel threatened. So, it’s a good idea to supervise them around small kids and babies (a Silky may misread a toddler’s quick movements, squeezy hugs and squeals and try to protect themselves). It’s also important to ensure children are taught how to properly interact with dogs.

It might surprise you, but Silkies have a high-prey drive. These dogs are born hunters and were bred to hunt vermin (mostly rats and snakes). So, they’ll chase cats and other small animals. But a pup who’s had a full day of exercise and play is just too tired to chase the neighbor’s cat out of your backyard.

Silkies are known for their barking skills. If it was an Olympic sport, Silkies would take home the gold every time. This trait makes them excellent watchdogs. But know that, while you can teach them to bark less often, you’ll never train the bark completely out of them.

Silky Terrier dogs are very intelligent, so be sure to engage their brains as well as their bodies. Interactive toys and dog sports like agility are great ways to keep their active minds busy and out of trouble.