By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=April_Osburn]April Osburn
Silky Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers have several differences. Most people cannot tell the two apart. But their looks are really different if you know what to look for. Below is a comparison, so you will be one of the few that are able too.
Silky Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier - Appearance
Their coat has very small difference between the two - unless you love one breed or the other! So take a closer look at the following:
Differences in the Coat In These Terriers
Color - The coat is lighter on the Silky, usually a silver or slate blue, compared to the Yorkie's steel-blue.
Length - Silky Terriers have a coat that follows the outline of the body...it can go below, but does not touch the floor! Yorkie's on the other hand have coats that go to the floor and can drag on mature adult dogs. To make it easier to groom some people will trim the bottom. Plus if the hair is dragging it is going to pick up a lot of leaves and debris from outside.
Topnot and Head - Basically the head is a deep, rich tan and then the tan or silver color on Silky Terrier's get lighter. On the Yorkie the topnot is a rich golden tan and then becomes deeper in tan along the sides of the head, at the bottom of the ears and on the muzzle. The tan color is not supposed to mingle with the other colors. This is considered a fault on the Yorkie.
Big Indicator For Which Breed You Are Looking At -- Is the Size
The size of these two toy breeds of dog is the most visible factor. Although sometimes you'll find a large Yorkie or a small Silky, this is usually the exception not the rule. The Yorkie must not exceed 7 pounds. Silky Terriers are around 10 pounds.
I know these two weights do not seem like that much of a difference, but you can definitely tell a petite dog with a petite bone structure from a more sturdy one.
Now Let's Take a Look at the Face
Take a closer look at each one of these dog's faces. Everything is a lot smaller on the Yorkie.
Snout / Muzzle: Smaller dog = shorter snout. Silky Terriers have a little bit longer nose.
Eyes: Silky Terriers have almond shaped eyes.
The best way to tell if the dog is a Silky Terrier or Yorkshire Terrier - - does the pet have a bow on it's head? If so, then it is more than likely a Yorkie. Silky's are not supposed to have bows on their heads! The dogs get upset and are very adamant about this!
Find out more information on Silky Terrier grooming, behavior and other tips regarding this feisty breed of dog at www.silky-terrier.dog.com [http://www.silky-terrier-dog.com]
About The Author
April Osburn has been raised around Silky Terriers [http://www.silky-terrier-dog.com] her entire life. She has two that are her constant companions, Gypsy and Samantha. She would like to share what she knows of this wonderful small breed of dog with anyone that would like to know more about them.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Silky-Terrier-Vs-Yorkshire-Terrier---Proven-Methods-to-Tell-Them-Apart&id=4237414] Silky Terrier Vs Yorkshire Terrier - Proven Methods to Tell Them Apart