2. Introduction
When choosing any breed of dog you must be aware of potential
health concerns
All dogs mixes and pure bred can have health concerns
The more popular breeds and their mixes will have more genetic
problems listed and more likely to have puppies with problems .
Although the Silky Terrier is quite rare you want to make sure you
deal with responsible breeders and the puppies are registered UKC
or AKC. There have been reports of unethical sellers passing off
oversized Yorkshires as Silky Terriers.
Make sure your breeder offers a written health guarantee good for
one year.
Have the puppy heath checked at your Veterinarian.
3. Leg Problems
Patellar luxation: Slipping kneecap.
Should be noticeable puppy vet check
prior to sale
Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease : This is a
disease of the hip joint in young (4 to 12
months), small-breed dogs.
4. Nervous System
Leukodystrophies: Clinical signs start as early as 2
weeks of age and include tremors, lack of coordination
and an exaggerated gait. Would be noticeable before
being sold
I have bred the Silky Terrier since the late 60s . I have
never heard of this problem. I had to look it up to see
what it was.
6. Skin Disorders
Color dilution alopecia: Affected dogs
have a poor, patchy hair coat progressing
to widespread permanent hair loss
7. In Conclusion
Silky Terriers list 5 health concerns. None are considered
common .
Information for this presentation as a public service provided
by: www.delayrekennel.com with information provided by :
A joint initiative of the Sir James Dunn Animal Welfare Centre
at the Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward
Island, and the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association..
Permission is granted to reprint pages from the database,
provided that credit is given as follows: Crook A et al. 2011.
Canine Inherited Disorders Database
Delayre Kennel Photos
8. About the Presenter
Member of the Canine Ambassador Program with Orange Empire
Dog Club. Educating people in the joy canines bring into our lives
through their relationship, interaction, and unconditional love.
Pet Professional specializing in the training of puppies in Sun Valley
since 1974 .
Breeder of Silky Terriers and Wire Fox Terriers
My boarding, training and breeding kennel was awarded Small
Business of the Year 2000
Better Business Bureau A+ rating
I have owned and/or bred 21 Conformation Champions including 6
International Champions
Member and former Vice President of the City of Angels Silky
Terrier Club
Past President of Sun Valley Chamber of Commerce
Have also served on the boards of Associated Terrier Breeders,
Animal Safe Haven Foundation, United Chambers of Commerce