The Scottish Terrier, also known as the "Scottie," is a small but sturdy dog known for its distinctive appearance, independence, and bold personality.
Highlights
- Fala, the Scottish Terrier of Franklin D. Roosevelt, was perhaps the most iconic First Dog in U.S. history - America’s First Dogs.
- Miss Beazley and Barney were two beloved Scottish Terrier owned by President George W. Bush - America’s First Dogs.
Basic Details
Origin
- Country of Origin: Scotland
- Historical Background: One of Scotland's oldest dog breeds, originally developed for hunting small vermin like foxes and badgers in the Scottish Highlands
- Recognition: Gained popularity in the late 19th century and was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1885
Breed Group
- Group: Terrier Group (recognized by the AKC)
- Function: Originally bred as a hunting dog for small game and vermin control
Size Group
- Size Category: Small
Appearance
- Height: 10 inches at the shoulder
- Weight: 18-22 pounds for males; 18-21 pounds for females
- Coat: Dense, wiry outer coat with a soft undercoat; requires regular grooming to maintain its texture
- Colors: Typically black, but can also be brindle or wheaten
- Build: Compact and sturdy with a distinctive long face, bushy eyebrows, and beard
Temperament
- Personality Traits: Independent, loyal, alert, and sometimes aloof with strangers
- Energy Level: Moderate; enjoys activity but does not require excessive exercise
- Good with Children: Tends to be better with older children who understand boundaries; may not tolerate rough play
- Compatibility with Other Pets: Can be wary of other dogs and may have a strong prey drive toward smaller animals
Popularity
- Recognition: Known worldwide and has been popular as a companion dog, especially among notable figures such as Franklin D. Roosevelt
- Popularity Rank in the U.S.: Known as a classic breed, though not as popular as some other terriers, Scottish Terriers have a devoted fan base
Health and Lifespan
- Average Lifespan: 11-13 years
- Common Health Issues: Prone to certain genetic issues such as Scottie cramp (a muscle disorder), von Willebrand's disease (a bleeding disorder), and some types of cancer
- Grooming Needs: Moderate to high; regular brushing, hand-stripping, or clipping is required to maintain their unique coat
Exercise and Training Needs
- Exercise Requirements: Moderate; needs regular walks and playtime but doesn’t demand intensive exercise
- Best Activities: Daily walks, interactive play, and mental stimulation through games or puzzles
- Training Approach: Intelligent but can be stubborn and independent; benefits from firm, consistent, and positive reinforcement training
- Special Skills: Known for their keen sense of smell and digging instincts, which reflect their hunting background
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of the Scottish Terrier?
The Scottish Terrier originated in Scotland and is one of the oldest terrier breeds. It was developed in the Scottish Highlands to hunt small game like foxes, rats, and badgers.
What breed group does the Scottish Terrier belong to?
The Scottish Terrier belongs to the Terrier Group, as recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). This group includes breeds known for their hunting instincts and bold personalities.
What size is a Scottish Terrier?
Scottish Terriers are small but sturdy dogs. They typically stand around 10 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 18-22 pounds.
What does a Scottish Terrier look like?
Scottish Terriers have a distinctive appearance with a dense, wiry coat, a compact and muscular build, and a unique face featuring bushy eyebrows and a beard. They are usually black but can also be brindle or wheaten.
What is the temperament of a Scottish Terrier?
Scottish Terriers are known for their independence, loyalty, and alertness. They can be aloof with strangers but are generally affectionate and loyal with their families.
Are Scottish Terriers good with children?
Scottish Terriers are generally better with older children who understand boundaries. They may not tolerate rough play from younger children, so supervision is recommended.
Do Scottish Terriers get along with other pets?
Scottish Terriers can be wary of other dogs and may have a strong prey drive toward smaller animals. Early socialization and training can help, but they might not be the best fit for homes with small pets.
How much exercise does a Scottish Terrier need?
Scottish Terriers have moderate exercise needs. They enjoy daily walks and interactive play but don’t require extensive exercise. Regular physical and mental stimulation will keep them happy.
How often does a Scottish Terrier need grooming?
Scottish Terriers require regular grooming due to their dense, wiry coat. Weekly brushing, occasional hand-stripping, or clipping is recommended to maintain their unique coat texture and appearance.
What health issues are common in Scottish Terriers?
Scottish Terriers are generally healthy but can be prone to genetic issues like Scottie cramp, von Willebrand's disease, and some types of cancer. Regular veterinary check-ups can help monitor their health.
What is the lifespan of a Scottish Terrier?
The average lifespan of a Scottish Terrier is 11-13 years. With proper care, some Scotties can live longer, enjoying a healthy, active life.
Are Scottish Terriers easy to train?
Scottish Terriers are intelligent but can be independent and stubborn. They respond best to consistent, positive reinforcement training and patience from their owners.
Do Scottish Terriers have a high prey drive?
Yes, Scottish Terriers have a high prey drive, which makes them skilled hunters. This instinct may lead them to chase small animals, so care is needed when they are around smaller pets.
Are Scottish Terriers suited for apartment living?
Yes, Scottish Terriers can adapt well to apartment living, as long as they receive enough exercise and mental stimulation. Their small size and moderate energy level make them suitable for smaller spaces.
Do Scottish Terriers bark a lot?
Scottish Terriers are known to be alert and will bark when they sense something unusual. They are not excessive barkers, but they can be vocal, especially if they feel protective.
Are Scottish Terriers good watchdogs?
Yes, Scottish Terriers are excellent watchdogs due to their alertness and loyalty. They are protective of their families and will alert you to any potential threats.
What type of diet is best for a Scottish Terrier?
A high-quality dog food, appropriate for their age, size, and activity level, is best for Scottish Terriers. They can be prone to weight gain, so portion control and balanced nutrition are essential.
Are Scottish Terriers prone to separation anxiety?
Scottish Terriers can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. They form strong bonds with their families and appreciate regular companionship and interaction.
Do Scottish Terriers enjoy digging?
Yes, digging is a natural behavior for Scottish Terriers, rooted in their hunting background. They may dig when bored or if they sense something interesting underground.
Are Scottish Terriers hypoallergenic?
Scottish Terriers are considered to be a hypoallergenic breed due to their minimal shedding and wiry coat. However, no dog is completely hypoallergenic, so they may still cause mild allergies in sensitive individuals.
Fun Facts
The Only Breed to Live in the White House Three Times
Scottish Terriers have been the chosen pets of three U.S. presidents: Franklin D. Roosevelt, Dwight D. Eisenhower, and George W. Bush. FDR’s Scottie, Fala, is one of the most famous White House pets in history.
Once Known as the Aberdeen Terrier
Before becoming widely recognized as the Scottish Terrier, the breed was originally called the Aberdeen Terrier, named after the Scottish city of Aberdeen where it was popular.
Featured in Monopoly as the Iconic Game Piece
The Scottie dog is one of the original Monopoly game pieces, symbolizing the breed’s association with class and character. It has remained one of the most popular Monopoly tokens over the years.
Symbol of Bravery and Loyalty
Scottish Terriers are known for their courage and loyalty. Historically, they were used for hunting and guarding, showing their brave and fearless nature despite their small size.
Distinctive Appearance That Rarely Changes
The Scottie’s iconic look, with its wiry coat, bushy eyebrows, and beard, has remained largely unchanged for over 100 years, making it one of the most recognizable dog breeds.
Scottie Cramp: A Unique Condition
Scottish Terriers are known to have a condition called Scottie Cramp, a mild genetic disorder that causes temporary muscle spasms when they get overly excited. It does not cause pain but gives them an unusual gait.
Scottish Terrier in Popular Culture
The breed has been featured in various films and cartoons, including Disney’s “Lady and the Tramp.” Jock, the Scottie in the movie, embodies the classic, dignified Scottie personality.
Intense Burrowing Instinct
Scottish Terriers have a strong burrowing instinct due to their history as hunters of burrowing animals. They may instinctively dig, making them excellent at finding things hidden underground.
Their Beard and Eyebrows Serve a Purpose
The Scottie’s facial hair is not just for show. Their distinctive beard and bushy eyebrows helped protect their face from harsh conditions and brambles when hunting in rugged terrain.
Known for Their Loyalty and “Dignified Independence”
Scottish Terriers are deeply loyal but have an independent streak. They are often described as having a “dignified independence,” meaning they love their families but can also be self-sufficient.