Silky-Lhasa
The Silky-Lhasa is a cross between the Lhasa Apso and the Silky Terrier. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Silky-Lhasa. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a small but sturdy dog with a distinctive rectangular body shape that is slightly longer than it is tall at the shoulder. Males typically stand ten to eleven inches at the withers and weigh between twelve and eighteen pounds, while females are slightly smaller. The breed possesses a well-developed rib cage and strong hindquarters that give it a balanced, substantial appearance despite its compact size. The head features a medium-length muzzle with a moderate stop, and the skull is somewhat narrow with a slight dome shape often described as an apple dome. The dark brown eyes are medium-sized and set forward-facing, giving the breed an intelligent and alert expression. The Lhasa Apso's most striking feature is its luxurious double coat, which consists of a heavy, straight, hard outer coat and a moderate undercoat. Unlike softer-coated breeds, the Lhasa's hair has a distinct texture that is neither woolly nor silky. When fully grown and properly maintained, the coat can reach floor length and parts naturally down the center of the back. The breed comes in virtually all colors, including honey, slate, black, white, parti-color, and various shades of brown and gold. The heavily feathered pendant ears hang close to the head and are covered with long hair that blends with the body coat. Additional distinctive features include the well-feathered tail that is carried in a screw fashion over the back, often with a kink at the end. The breed has round, catlike feet with firm pads and an abundance of hair covering them. The Lhasa Apso moves with a free and jaunty gait, exhibiting good reach in front and strong drive from behind. The overall appearance conveys dignity and hardiness befitting their origins as sentinel dogs in Tibetan monasteries, where they served alongside monks for centuries in the harsh Himalayan climate.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament At home with their families, Lhasa Apsos reveal a playful and sometimes clownish side that contrasts with their serious demeanor around strangers. They form strong bonds with their owners and can be quite affectionate, though they typically maintain their independence and are not clingy or overly demanding of attention. The breed is moderately active and adapts well to apartment living, content with daily walks and indoor play sessions. They generally get along well with older children who respect their space but may be less tolerant of rough handling from younger children. Their combination of alertness, loyalty, and self-assured independence makes them devoted companions for those who appreciate a dog with personality and presence.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Additional health concerns include intervertebral disc disease, which can cause back pain and mobility problems, and various skin allergies that may require ongoing management. The breed's flat facial structure can sometimes contribute to brachycephalic airway issues. Dental disease is common due to the small mouth size, making regular dental care including brushing and professional cleanings essential. The breed's long coat requires regular grooming to prevent mats and skin problems, and the eyes should be kept clean to prevent irritation from facial hair. Regular veterinary checkups and maintaining a healthy weight help ensure Lhasa Apsos live long, healthy lives.
Silky Terrier
The Silky Terrier is a small, elegant toy breed that stands approximately nine to ten inches at the shoulder and weighs between eight and ten pounds. Despite its refined appearance, this breed possesses a sturdy, well-balanced structure with moderate bone and a body that is slightly longer than it is tall. The overall silhouette presents a dog that is compact without being cobby, displaying the characteristic terrier build of strength and agility. The breed has a wedge-shaped head with a flat skull that tapers toward the muzzle, featuring a shallow stop and a strong jaw. The small, almond-shaped eyes are dark in color with dark rims, conveying an expression of keen intelligence and alertness. The breed's most distinctive feature is its single coat, which is straight, flat, fine, glossy, and silky in texture, typically reaching five to six inches in length. Unlike the closely related Yorkshire Terrier, the Silky Terrier's coat should not touch the ground. The coat parts naturally down the center of the back and requires regular grooming to maintain its lustrous appearance. The breed displays a characteristic blue and tan coloration, with the blue ranging from silver to deep slate and the tan being a rich, warm shade. Puppies are born black and tan, with the coat color developing and lightening as they mature past eighteen months of age. The hair on the head may form a topknot that should be lighter than the body coloring. The Silky Terrier has small, V-shaped ears that are set high on the head and carried erect, contributing to the breed's alert expression. The tail is traditionally docked and set high, carried at an angle. The feet are small and catlike with compact, well-cushioned pads. One of the breed's most notable characteristics is its distinctive hackney-like gait, displaying a light-footed, lively movement with strong forward momentum. This high-stepping action gives the Silky Terrier a proud, spirited appearance that reflects its confident and energetic personality.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament While the Silky Terrier enjoys cuddling with family members, this typically occurs after their exercise and mental stimulation needs have been met. The breed requires more activity than many toy breeds and can become bored and destructive if under-stimulated. They are known diggers and may escape from unsecured yards. Silky Terriers can be scrappy with other dogs and may attempt to assert dominance regardless of the other dog's size. Early socialization is essential to help them develop appropriate social skills.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Additional health concerns include collapsing trachea, a condition where the cartilage rings supporting the windpipe weaken and cause a characteristic honking cough. Epilepsy has been reported in the breed, typically appearing between two and five years of age and requiring lifelong medication management. Hypothyroidism can cause weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems. The breed's silky single coat lacks an undercoat and provides minimal insulation, making Silky Terriers sensitive to cold temperatures. Regular veterinary checkups and maintaining a healthy weight help ensure these spirited companions enjoy long, active lives.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Silky-Lhasa may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Lhasa Apso and Silky Terrier to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.