The Silky Terrier was originally known  as the Sydney Terrier, and was developed in the Sydney area of New South Wales. This charming small Australian dog was never a working dog; it was bred to fill the role of family pet. The Silky Terrier is no mellow lapdog. It is bold, feisty, inquisitive, and playful, ever ready for action. Extremely vocal, it serves as an excellent watch-dog, and its small size makes it an ideal pet for apartment dwellers.