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Although it's a toy breed, this little dog has the alert, inquisitive nature typical of terrier breeds. Another creation of the inventive Australians, the Silky Terrier was developed from a cross between Australian and the Yorkshire Terriers. The breed was seen in Australia in the early 1900s as a native-bred toy whose sole purpose was to be an attractive household pet, a role for which the breed is admirably equipped. Neither as active as a terrier nor needing as much care as the more diminutive toy breeds, the Silky is a happy medium. During its rather short career, the breed has been known by a variety of names in its country of origin: Victorian Silky, Sydney Silky and Australian Silky Terrier. The U.S. calls it simply the Silky Terrier. The breed attracted the interest of servicemen stationed in Australia during World War II, who introduced it to the U.S. It has been on the American roster of official breeds since 1959 and on Canada's since the mid-1960s. The Silky measures 9 to 10 inches at the shoulder and weighs from 8 to 10 pounds. The breed makes an ideal pet for city dwellers and is a good playmate for older children. Daily brushing of the coat is essential but exercise needs are minimal. A couple of short walks or playtimes each day will keep the Silky joyful.