Dog Breed: Australia Silky Terrier

Origins: "Silkies" resemble Yorkshire Terriers so closely because the latter were used in the development of the breed in Australia in the 1800s. Other dogs involved in the Silky Terrier's genes include Australian Terriers and Skye Terriers.

Size: Small. About 23cm tall at the shoulder.

Physical Appearance: Straight-coated, with fine, glossy, long hairs often kept neat by being parted down the middle of the dog's back. The tips of the hairs are usually darker than the roots, and in show dogs, these dark tips should contain black. Like the Yorkshire, "typical" Silky Terriers have tan-colored hair around the head, chest and feet, and darker-colored hair over the body.

Characteristics: Lively, friendly, alert, active.

Colors: Blue and tan, gray-blue and tan, sometimes even cream-colored.

Special Facts: These tiny, dainty little dogs considered a "toy" breed make surprisingly good watchdogs because they are so alert, and they are also quite efficient at hunting pests such as mice.