SCOTTISH TERRIER

Temperament: Confident, Independent, Spirited

AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 57 of 197

Height: 10 inches

Weight: 19-22 pounds (male), 18-21 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 12 years

Group: Terrier Group

ABOUT THE SCOTTISH TERRIER

An independent and stubborn character, the Scottish Terrier dog breed is also quite sensitive to praise and blame. Independent, intelligent, and hilarious in their dignified seriousness, they’re a true terrier, which makes them an excellent watchdog.

Thanks to those incredibly short legs, your Scottie isn’t going to train for a marathon with you.

Despite their size, they don’t yap: they have a powerful bark that can scare the wits out of the unsuspecting burglar or delivery person.

PERSONALITY

The Scottish Terrier’s character and personality are a bit like the lonely moors of his homeland. He’s a serious guy, not particularly jolly, and he approves of dignity and reserve. He’s opinionated, as well as independent and smart as a whip.

He needs to live inside the house, because companionship is his mainstay. Sensitive to praise and anger, he’s good at adapting to the changing moods of a household.

When you’re quiet, he’ll be quiet (unless he sees a squirrel); when you’re ready for a walk, he’ll bound outdoors with you.

NUTRITION

If the Scottish Terrier’s coat is healthy and grows evenly and there is no dry, flaky skin or irritation, and the eyes are bright and there is no chewing or itching, then odds are the dog is being fed a suitable food.

Some experienced breeders have found terriers to do well on a moderate-protein diet (mid-20-percent protein), with a bit of an additive such as canned food.

HEALTH

Scottish Terriers are generally healthy, but like all breeds of dogs, they’re prone to certain conditions and diseases.

Scottie cramp

Von Willebrand’s disease

Craniomandibular osteopathy

Patellar luxation

CARE

Scottish Terriers need a good walk, but also good playtime. They have high energy and need to expend some of that in bursts. Throwing a ball or toy around that they can chase works great.

That activity will keep them in good shape and attitude. This makes them great dogs for a small home or apartment living.

GROOMING

Scottish Terriers require regularly scheduled grooming. They are a dual-coated breed, with a harsh, wiry outer layer and dense, soft undercoat.

Once a month would be best once the coat is started, but they can be worked on weekly. If you are not doing it yourself, it may be hard to find a groomer who will do this for a pet.

A weekly brushing and comb-out will keep the Scottie’s coat tangle free and the skin healthy.

Source: dogtime, akc.