Dog
Pronunciation:
sil-kee dzoo
Breed Description:
The Silky Tzu breed of dog is a "designer" or mixed breed that was created by crossing the Silky Terrier with the Shih Tzu. Because of this, a breed type has not been established and the looks and temperament of the dog can greatly change from one puppy to the next. Generally, the Silky Tzu will have qualities of both parents. They are a toy sized breed of dog with a small, compact body that is usually slightly longer than it is tall. The head is usually round in shape with either medium length erect ears or hanging ears. The muzzle is usually medium in length and the head is usually well-proportioned with the body. The tail of the Silky Tzu is usually long and curls over the back of the dog, although some can have a short tail.
The coat of the Silky Tzu is usually a double coat with a soft, short undercoat and a fluffy topcoat that is medium in length and very soft. The coat can be found in any color or marking of the parent breeds but the common color is cream.
Temperament:
The Silky Tzu breed of dog is a designer breed and because of this, their temperament can vary greatly. They are usually described as an affectionate dog that has a clown like personality. They love being with their owners and thrive when they can be with them much of the day. The breed is usually friendly and cheerful and they can do okay with older children, although they can be snappish to young children. The Silky Tzu usually gets along well with other dogs and pets, however, they can have a strong prey drive fi they take after their Silky Terrier parent.
Height:
The average height for a Silky Tzu is between 9 to 16 inches.
Weight:
The average weight for a Silky Tzu is between 8 to 16 pounds.
Health Problems:
The Silky Tzu breed of dog has no known health problems, however, it is important to read up on both the Silky Terrier and the Shih Tzu to be aware of the health problems your puppy may be at risk for.
Living Conditions:
The Silky Tzu breed of dog is versatile when it comes to living conditions and they can live in both apartments and homes with yards. They should not live outdoors and do best when they are inside with their family as a companion dog.
Exercise:
The Silky Tzu breed of dog is an active breed that requires between 20 to 30 minutes of exercise each day. Generally, two good walks will meet their needs but it is also important to give them an opportunity for off leash exercise as well.
Life Expectancy:
12 to 15 years
Grooming:
The Silky Tzu breed of dog is usually clipped for easier grooming and when they are, they can be extremely easy to care for. Clipping should be done once or twice a year and the head should be clipped once a month. Brushing should be done once a week, unless they are in full coat when they should be brushed daily. The Silky Tzu should be bathed once a month and the ears should be kept clean to prevent ear infections.
Origin:
The Silky Tzu breed of dog is a designer `hybrid`breed that has become popular over the last decade or so. There is no actual origin for the breed and if you are interested in learning more about the Silky Tzu, it is important to read up on both the Silky Terrier and the Shih Tzu. Comments
The standards for all the breeds accepted to the AKC are used here for breed information, and those not part of the AKC are resourced from FCI standard information, where it is written and coded into the club rules for those breeds.
