The ever-popular Scottish
Terrier or Scottie is an independent breed of dog
that can be very loyal to its master. Many owners
say their Scottie is also very protective of its own
privacy, sometimes preferring to just be left alone.
This short-legged member of the terrier family hails
from Britain, of course. Its true beginnings as a
breed are not clear, though records show dogs of
similar appearance and stature as far back as the
16th century.
A close look at the Scottish Terrier reveals
that it has a longer head and body than the Cairn
and Westie, both of which are compared to the
Scottie. The color of the Scottie is usually darker
and the personality of the Scottish Terrier is
distinctly different. The adult of this breed
usually stands about 10 inches tall at the shoulder
and weighs up to 20 pounds.
Temperament
The Scottish Terrier can be a very independent dog,
even to the point of wanting to be alone and
protecting its privacy. But the social side of the
Scottie balances this, as the dogs of this breed
usually tolerate children even when they are a
rowdy. Scotties seem to be comfortable around adults
as well, though the dog is usually very loyal to a
master.
Scottish Terriers are often very brave in the face
of danger and will courageously protect family
members. In addition, the dogs of this breed can be
charming and show a lot of love for owners. Some
experienced Scottie owners report that older dogs
can grow to be moody and even snap at people when
they are disturbed. Scotties can be good watchdogs
but consistent and firm training will be necessary
from the start.
Size and Color
A healthy adult Scottish Terrier will stand about 10
inches or 11 inches tall and will weight around 20
pounds. Some dogs get a bit heavier, up to 23
pounds. The Scottie should appear compact and
sturdily built, and should have erect ears.
Sometimes a Scottie will have a straw-colored or
nearly white coat but there are terrier breeds
called the Wheaten Terrier and the White Terrier.
The usual color for a Scottish Terrier ranges from
dark grey to jet black.
Feeding and Grooming Requirements
As with most purebred dogs, Scottish Terrier owners
should probably avoid the cheaper mixes of
commercial dog food because many dogs are allergic
to the excess amounts of grain in these brands. The
three main points of attention in a healthy Scottie
are the muscles, the coat and the personality. A
healthy adult Scottish Terrier should be stocky and
somewhat muscular.
In addition, the coat should be wiry with a soft
undercoat. This excellent cover is kept shining and
healthy with a protein diet that has good quality
fat content. Scotties can tend to scratch quite a
bit, but this can be reduced through the feeding of
the proper fatty acids in the diet. Regular brushing
will be necessary to maintain the wiry coat in top
condition. Baths and dry shampoo should be used only
as necessary. The Scottish Terrier sheds little.
Exercise Needs
The Scottish Terrier was used many years ago to hunt
otter, rabbit and fox, so the breed is accustomed to
outdoor exercise. The Scottie is now seen mostly as
a companion dog. But owners will find that their pet
has kept some of the hunting instincts.
The Scottish Terrier will be fine in a mid-sized
yard and will get the exercise needed on its own.
Some owners will used play as a means of exercise,
along with walks and some time spent in the open,
such as in a park. The Scottie can be destructive if
not given enough activity or attention.
