Scottish Terriers: A guide to dogs and puppies of the Scottish Terrier breed

The Scottish Terrier!

The Scottish Terrier is a small and compact breed that is stronger and more agile than it actually looks. It has a long head, almond-shaped eyes, large nose and teeth, sharp, perky ears and a stop between the skull and the muzzle. Its bushy eyebrows and beard give the Scottish Terrier an endearing thoughtful expression. It has a soft, tight undercoat and a dense, wiry outer coat, which protects it from extreme weather conditions. The tail is medium in length and can be either straight or curled.

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
12 to 15 years

Energy Level:
Higher than average.

Living Conditions:
Small size makes it fine for apartments, though needs time outdoors.

Barking:
Higher than average..

Exercise Needs:
Daily 25 minute walk and yard play.

Breed Group:
Terrier

Size:
Medium-Small

Height:
10 to 11 inches

Weight:
19 to 23 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
Black, wheaten or brindle.

National breed club:
Scottish Terrier Club of America

Breeder Interview:
Cindy Cook

Scottish Terrier Skills

The breed was originally known as the Aberdeen Terrier, named after a Scottish town with the same name. It was originally used to hunt den animals such as badger, fox, otter and rabbit. Today, the Scottish Terrier serves more as a playful companion and watchdog, although it has still retained its hunting instincts.

Scottish Terrier Personality

The Scottish Terrier is sometimes nicknamed “The Diehard” because of its boundless energy and determination. Its charming nature makes it a breed that is easy to love. As a puppy, the Scottish Terrier is playful and friendly; as it grows older, it adapts a more dignified behavior. It loves to bark and dig, engage in ball games and enjoys walking around. It is also fiercely loyal to its family and can be aloof to interlopers. The Scottish Terrier can also be quite sensitive to praise and criticism so it is advised that it should be trained gently.

Exercise Needs

Since the Scottish Terrier is more of a playful companion, it can be perfectly happy accompanying its owner on long walks or engaging in its favorite ball game. A small yard can also allow the dog to run and exercise itself.

Living Conditions

Because of its size, the Scottish Terrier is ideal for people living in apartments with small yards. However, it prefers cool climates, because of its dense coat.

Grooming Requirements

The Scottish Terrier’s wiry coat needs to be brushed at least twice or thrice weekly. Extra care should be taken during its shedding season. The Scottish Terrier’s fur should also be professionally groomed twice a year in order to maintain its natural shape.

Health Issues

The Scottish Terrier is prone to Scottie Cramp, which is a type of movement problem. It is also susceptible to skin infection, flea allergies and Von Willebrand’s disease.

If you liked this dog…

You may also like an American Staffordshire Terrier. Aside from sharing the same breed group, this dog is very good-natured and affectionate, not to mention very obedient and fairly easy to train.