The Silkzer is a designer breed with both Silky Terrier and Miniature Schnauzer bloodlines. Hybrid breeding practices, though popular, are not well-documented and the Silkzer's history is unknown. Owners and those who wish to adopt a Silkzer should always inquire about the puppy's parents and learn as much as they can about the parent breeds. The Silky Terrier is an Australian breed that rose from the hybridization of the Yorkshire Terrier and native Australian Terriers during the late 1800s. The breeding program was aimed at producing a dog with silky traits that weighed more than the Yorkie. Only dogs with the silky traits were selected for breeding until predictable traits manifested. The Silky Terrier was originally bred as an attractive ratting dog but has since become a favorite companion. The Silky moved to the United States in the 20th Century, and the American Kennel Club first registration was in 1959. The Miniature Schnauzer is a Terrier of German descent that was bred for German farms for vermin control and guarding. The Miniature Schnauzer rose from crossbreeding the Standard Schnauzer with smaller German breeds, such as the Miniature Pinscher, Affenpinscher, and Poodle. The goal of the breeding program was to produce a smaller version of the Standard Schnauzer. The Miniature Schnauzer enjoyed popularity in Germany and moderate popularity in the United States when the first breed was first registered in 1926 with the American Kennel Club. However, following World War II, the Miniature Schnauzer rose to high popularity, and today, the breed is ranked in the top 20.
