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If you are considering adding a Scottish Terrier
(Scottie) to your family, you will be getting a dog
that has a long history dating back several hundred
years to Scotland. In that country the Scottie was
often a working dog of sorts that chased vermin such
as rats and hunted rabbits and foxes. So, having a
Scottish Terrier as a pet may mean you will have an
energetic dog that also loves to play and exercise.
The Scottish Terrier is a very popular breed because
of its personality and appearance, as well as its
smaller size. It usually remains active throughout
its 12 to 15 years of life and does well with
children in the right situation. With proper care
and a bit of training to help it fit into your
lifestyle, the Scottie can be a wonderful family
companion.
Of course, one of the key things to consider when
buying any dog, especially purebred, is choosing a
breeder you feel comfortable with. You should pick a
breeder that specializes in Scottish Terriers and
has several years of experience with that breed.
Plan to ask questions. It helps to know you will get
honest, straightforward answers.
Remember that most puppies are cute and adorable, so
you do need to use some caution in making your
choice. You may not want to take home the first
puppy that seems to choose you. It may be best to
select one of the less “forward” puppies as your
ideal pet.
We recommend looking at various reputable breeders,
visiting as many as you can. If you are not certain
about where to begin, you can always contact the
American Kennel Club or Scottish Terrier Club of
America for help in getting a list of quality,
licensed breeders to choose from. One of the real
benefits of buying from a top-quality, recommended
breeder is that you will get a properly raised puppy
that has started its life by learning to socialize
with others.
This can save a great deal of effort later in the
dog’s life, as you train and care for it. Top
breeders are very careful to socialize and play with
puppies during the first 8 to 10 weeks of the dog’s
life. The breeder will also make sure the puppy
begins with a good diet.
There is also a strong rescue network devoted to
Scottish Terriers that focuses on finding good homes
for Scotties. This can be an excellent alternative
to getting the Scottish Terrier you want for your
family. But keep in mind that adopting an adult dog
of any breed comes with challenges quite different
from puppy challenges.
Some of the things you should look for, and expect
as the dog grows older, are a sturdy appearance and
a healthy-looking coat. The ears should be pointed
and stand erect, giving the dog an alert, thoughtful
appearance. The Scottish Terrier is generally a
well-muscled dog. Experts say it is best to choose a
dog with a well-balanced look.
There are a few health concerns unique to Scotties
and some similar terriers, including allergies of
the skin caused by grass or fleas, and cataracts, in
which the lens of the eye clouds over or becomes
opaque. However, with careful shopping and asking
the right questions, the experience of adding a
Scottish Terrier to your family can be a happy one.
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