Silkytie
The Silkytie is a cross between the Shetland Sheepdog 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 Silkytie. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, affectionately known as the Sheltie, is a small to medium-sized herding breed that stands between thirteen and sixteen inches at the shoulder and typically weighs between fifteen and twenty-five pounds. The breed bears a striking resemblance to its larger cousin, the Rough Collie, presenting a refined yet substantial appearance that conveys both elegance and working capability. The body is moderately long in proportion to height, creating a balanced silhouette that is slightly longer than tall when measured from the point of the shoulder to the point of the hip. The overall outline is symmetrical, with no part appearing out of proportion to the whole. The Sheltie carries itself with an alert, proud bearing that reflects its intelligence and willingness to work. The head is a refined, long, blunted wedge shape, tapering slightly from ears to nose when viewed from above. The skull is flat on top with a slight stop, and the cheeks are flat and smooth. The almond-shaped eyes are medium-sized and set somewhat obliquely, typically dark in color except in blue merle dogs where one or both eyes may be blue or merle. The small ears are placed high and carried three-quarters erect with the tips folding forward, contributing to the breed's alert and intelligent expression. The muzzle is of equal length to the skull and rounded at the end, never appearing snipey or overly pointed. The Shetland Sheepdog's double coat is one of its most distinctive features, consisting of a long, straight, harsh outer coat and a short, furry, dense undercoat. The abundant coat forms a mane and frill around the neck, with well-feathered forelegs and hind legs above the hocks, and a profusely coated tail. The coat lies smoothly against the body, giving a fitted appearance. Accepted colors include sable ranging from golden to mahogany, tricolor featuring black with tan and white markings, blue merle, bi-black, and bi-blue, typically with varying amounts of white markings on the chest, legs, and collar. The breed moves with a smooth, effortless gait that reflects its herding heritage.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament The Shetland Sheepdog is an active breed that requires both physical exercise and mental stimulation to remain happy and well-adjusted. They excel in competitive obedience, agility, herding trials, and other canine sports that challenge both mind and body. Despite their energy, Shelties are adaptable to various living situations including apartments, provided their exercise needs are met. They are gentle and patient with children, making excellent family dogs, though they may attempt to herd younger children by nipping at heels. The breed's combination of intelligence, trainability, sensitivity, and devotion makes the Sheltie an outstanding companion for owners who appreciate a responsive, affectionate, and eager-to-please partner.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Dermatomyositis, sometimes called Sheltie Skin Syndrome, is an inflammatory condition affecting the skin and muscles that appears to be inherited and is more common in Shelties and Collies. Hypothyroidism affects some Shelties, causing metabolic slowdown, weight gain, and coat problems. Gallbladder mucoceles occur more frequently in Shelties than many other breeds and may require surgical intervention. Epilepsy has been identified in the breed, typically appearing between one and one and a half years of age. The MDR1 gene mutation, which causes sensitivity to certain medications including ivermectin, affects some Shelties. Regular veterinary care and genetic testing help ensure Shelties 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 Silkytie 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 Shetland Sheepdog and Silky Terrier to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.