Breed Description
Coat
The Scottish Terrier's coat is coarse with a soft and dense
undercoat that provides protection from bad weather. The outer hair coat
is hard and wiry and grows to approximately 2 inches in length. This
breed is low shedding. The Scottie is most often black in color, but the
coat may also be brindle, gray, sandy, and wheaten. They are never white.
Overview
The Scottish Terrier originated in Scotland and is considered
to be the most ancient of any Highland Terrier. They are curious and
playful, small and muscular. The Scottie makes a good companion for the
right family. They have a compact and sturdy build.
Character
The Scottish Terrier exudes a bold and dignified manner. They
do not give their love and devotion freely. This breed will typically
watch their surroundings and those around them before making any decisions
regarding them. The Scottie is extremely smart and independent.
Temperament
The Scottish Terrier will go anywhere and do anything. They
have a dominant personality and a tendency to be territorial. The Scottie
may show aggression to other dogs and cats if they are not socialized
properly at an early age. They are good watchdogs and will not bark
without good reason. They are not tolerant of unruly and rambunctious
young children.
Care
The Scottish Terrier requires brushing twice weekly to keep the
coat tangle free. They do require grooming and trimming to keep their
distinctive look. The Scottie is highly prone to cancer of the bladder.
They also may suffer from cataracts, hypothyroidism, and Von Willebrand
Disease. This breed is especially sensitive to fleas and many have skin
problems.
Training
The Scottish Terrier does best with very early socialization
training to avoid aggression to other dogs' as they get older. Their
strong independence presents a training challenge. The Scottie can be
stubborn, so motivation, consistency, and positive praise are a must.
They do very well in obedience and agility if the proper training
techniques are utilized.
Activity
The Scottish Terrier is always ready for an adventure and
activity. They require long walks, stimulation, and play. The Scottie
does not do well in extremely warm climates. They love to play ball and
derive great pleasure from playing fetch. They do well in apartment
living provided they are exercised appropriately. The Scottie will become
bored and destructive if they do not receive stimulation and exercise and
may dig and bark excessively.
Ownership
If you are looking for Scottish Terrier puppies for sale from reputable Scottish Terrier breeders or to adopt a Scottish Terrier from a Scottish Terrier rescue then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy breed is different. Begin your research by reading the breed information about the Scottish Terrier puppy above. Search our dog breeds section to find Scottish Terrier puppies, dogs and puppies that make great pets.