All hail the Highlands for gifting us the spectacular Scottish Terrier. This is a dark knight of a dog, with a beard to rival any hipster’s. The ‘Scottie’ is a fearless braveheart with a serious spring in its step – prone to barking and digging and with an independent outlook towards life, this breed nevertheless makes a good family pet when well socialised. The Scottie is traditionally represented as black in colour but it also comes in other varieties. Highly protective of its owners, this sturdy soul can sometimes be aggressive towards other dogs and animals.
History
The hardy and territorial Scottish Terrier was given the nickname ‘The Diehard’ in the 19th century by George, the fourth Earl of Dumbarton. No pressure, Scottie! There’s some confusion around the specific origin of this breed, owing to the abundance of terrier-type dogs that were bred in the same part of the world at the same time. Embodying the true spirit of stiff upper lip, the Scottish Terrier became popular during the First and Second World Wars.
Health
The average lifespan of a Scottish Terrier is 11 to 13 years.
Health conditions to look out for may include Scottie Cramp, knee problems, Von Willebrand’s disease, skin, knee and jaw issues, and mast cell tumours.
Characteristics
“The Diehard”
Members of the working dog breed group are, unsurprisingly, not shy of being active. Rottweilers need plenty of varied exercise to fulfil their natural instincts.
Grooming
Brush at the ready? You’ll need to comb your Scottie’s firm and wiry coat two or three times a week to keep it looking its best, and aim to have it shaped roughly every three months.
Small Dog Syndrome
As with all smaller breeds, the Scottie is at risk of developing Small Dog Syndrome if you let it get the upper hand around the house. Beware though – if you let them boss you around, they’ll feel the lack of a pack leader and will quickly become agitated.
Training
Scottish Terriers are a proud and stubborn breed and can be hard to train without the right attitude from the owner. They’re not unintelligent by any stretch though – a firm and consistent approach should see you through to Scottie glory.
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Scottish Terriers are a proud and stubborn breed and can be hard to train without the right attitude from the owner. They’re not unintelligent by any stretch though – a firm and consistent approach should see you through to Scottie glory.
Housebreaking
The smart little Scottie is fairly easy to housebreak.
Where to find Scotties
Scottish Terrier Groups
Ready to talk Scottie with your fellow devotees? Find a Scottish Terrier breed group below.
The Scottish Terrier Club England
Scottish Terrier Breeders and Exhibitors Association
Adopt a Scottish Terrier
Want to adopt a Scottish Terrier in need of a loving home? Find a rescue centre below.
Scottish Terrier Emergency Care
Terrier World Rescue
Breeders
Sold on the mini bearded majesty of “the Diehard”? Find a Kennel Club Assured Scottish Terrier breeder.
Do you own a Scottie?
If you own a Scottie let us know in the comments below and upload your picture to our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram tagging @DogBuddyCo.