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Silkchon |
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He is not recognized by the F.C.I. |
Origin |
Australia <> France / Belgium -> U.S.A. | |
Translation |
Francis Vandersteen |
A brief presentation of the Silkchon |
| The Silkchon is a designer hybrid that was created by crossing the Bichon frise with the Australian Silky Terrier. This lively little dog has the physical and temperamental characteristics of its parents. They measure between 23 and 30.5 centimeters and weigh between 3.5 and 5.5 kilos. Females tend to be slightly smaller than males. This little dog has a long, soft coat. It makes an exceptional apartment dog and is well suited to apartment living. Older people appreciate owning a Silkchon because this gentle dog is an exceptional companion who loves to be held and pampered. |
History of the Silkchon |
| The Silkchon is a relatively new breed. It possesses a mixture of all the characteristics of its parents, and it is often impossible to determine the exact personality of each Silkchon. For example, the Bichon frise loves children, but the Australian Silky Terrier is generally not at ease with youngsters. The Silkchon may or may not like children. Every dog is an individual and may have the characteristics of one or other of its parents. So it's useful to look at the history of parent breeds to better understand your hybrid. |
A little of the Australian Silky Terrier |
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| In 1890, Yorkshire Terriers were imported to Australia to be crossed with native Australian Terriers. The result was the Australian Silky Terrier. After the turn of the century, the breed was officially recognized, first in New South Wales, then in Victoria. During the Second World War, this agile dog was imported to the United States, where it quickly gained in popularity. In 1959, the Silky Terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club and the breed was entered in the toy group. The little Australian Silky Terrier is not only loyal, but also courageous. In 1996, an Australian Silky Terrier named Fizo was awarded the Australian Purple Cross for bravery when he jumped from a balcony to save his nine-year-old owner from a poisonous brown snake. | ||
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| Standard of the Australian Silky Terrier |
A little of the Bichon frise |
| The Bichon frise breed originated in the Mediterranean. This fluffy white dog is a descendant of the Barbet or Water Spaniel. Hundreds of years ago, this dog was used as a sailing companion by the Spanish. Its history as a sea dog may explain the breed's love of water. The breed quickly gained popularity in France and became quite common. In 1955, they were introduced to the United States. |
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| Standard of the Bichon frise |
Appearance of the Silkchon |
| The little Silkchon is a physical blend of its two parents. Its fur is very soft, almost cotton-like. The fur grows in long waves or hangs straight. This small dog needs daily brushing to prevent its fine-textured fur from tangling and matting, as it sheds moderately. Silkchon colors vary, but are generally white, cream or light tan. The body of this small, fine-boned dog is about the same length as that of the Bichon frise. Silkchon have small legs and a short tail that can be quite fluffy and have a slight curve. Their floppy ears and bright eyes always reveal their quick intelligence and cheeky personality. |
Temperament of the Silkchon |
| The Silkchon's temperament is difficult to predict, as every dog is an individual. Sometimes this little dog adores children, as is the case with the Bichon frise, but at other times it dislikes small children, as is the case with the Australian Silky Terrier. In general, the Silkchon is highly intelligent and easy to train. This happy dog naturally wants to please its master and is fiercely loyal. The Silkchon is an ideal apartment dog and a fantastic companion dog. This small dog is jovial and has an endearing temperament, making it an ideal choice for the elderly. |
Needs and activities of the Silkchon |
| The Silkchon is a delightful blend of Bichon frise and Australian Silky Terrier in terms of activity requirements. He's a happy, lively little dog who loves a daily walk. Usually, a 30-minute or hour-long walk is enough for this little dog. If the weather is bad, he'll happily entertain himself by playing indoors. Once a week, Silkchon loves to go to a dog park where he can run and play. After a bit of play, this lively little dog usually curls up on a warm lap for a nap. |
Maintenance of the Silkchon |
| The Silkchon's coat needs daily brushing to keep it tangle-free. The coat is flowing and generally requires monthly professional grooming to maintain a neat appearance. Many owners choose to have their dogs closely clipped to reduce the frequency of grooming appointments. Once a month, his nails should be trimmed to avoid breakage or tearing. As small dogs generally have teething problems and can be prone to cavities, it's a good idea to brush your dog's teeth several times a week. Once a week, clean his ears of debris with a warm washcloth. |
English (United Kingdom) 
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