Description: The Silkchon is a designer dog or they can be called a hybrid dog, this is where two pure breeds are used to create a new breed and in the Silkchon the breeds used are the Bichon Frise and the Silky Terrier. There are things the same in both breeds but it is always best to read up on both breeds to get a clear understanding that you can get a dog that leans more toward one or the other dogs in this breed. They are going to be small at about 9-12 inches in height and the weight will be 7-11 pounds. The head is round and the muzzle is short but in good proportion to the head. The eyes are round and dark in color. The ears are semi-dropped and hang down with long hair, though some have pricked ears. The nose is normally black and is large. The body is in good proportion to the head and they have short legs that have compact paws. The tail can be either curled up over the back or more of a gentle curl but it is set high and is well feathered. The coat is likely to be wavy and long with a soft texture. Some pups take after the Bichon more and so follow with a curly coat whereas others have the straight coat of the Silky Terrier. Whoever the dog takes after you are sure to have a dog that the coat will be four to five inches in length. Colours are varied and it seems that the most common is the white with shades of lighter color such as soft tan and gold’s there are white coats and soft beige coats. Life expectancy is 12-15 years but this breed is not that old yet so it is based on the life length of the breeding pair.

History: While it is fair to say the hybrids as a whole are new here is a dog that is newer and so the history of this new breed is only just starting. If good records are kept and people get their dog from good breeders with breeding skills and health certificates this can be a dog for a new generation of dog owners.

Temperament: There is not much written on the Silkchon but by reading up on the two breeds used this is a dog that is intelligent and makes an excellent companion dog. Both breeds, if chosen for the temperament in the breeding, are good with children and will love to be in the centre of the family. They show great affection and love to be with the owner. The owner needs to set house rules and give the dog boundaries and this gives the dog security. Training needs to be given and as they are bright and willing to please should not be too hard if the owner is firm but kind. Harsh training doesn’t work for this breed. They can have a lot of energy so walks daily are a must to help them burn off the energy. They make good watchdogs and will alert you to any changes. Some Silkchons are harder to potty train but they get there in the end if the owner keeps to a routine and gives positive praise. Some caution is needed with non canine pets but overall the Silkchon is fine.

Health issues: The Silkchon has both parent breeds with some health issues and it is wise to get a dog where all the health checks are done for the breeding pair but there are things like epilepsy in both lines that can not be tested.

Grooming: The Silkchon will need grooming and it is possible for this to be needed daily depending on the coat length. Talk to the breeder regarding grooming.

Living conditions: The Silkchon can live in an apartment and providing they have daily walks are happy, mental exercise is needed as well. A small garden would be nice.