The Scottish Terrier, or "Scottie," is often described as "power in a small package." These compact, stocky, strong-willed dogs originated in the Scottish Highlands, where their chief responsibility was to drive rodents and vermin out of ground burrows.
Scotties are intelligent, determined, no-nonsense dogs. They're also described as courageous, curious, alert, and scrappy.
Although Scotties are very independent and quick to react, they are very sensitive dogs that make great pets for owners who can work with their temperament.
Interesting Breed Facts:
Popularity:
45th in 2007; with 3,084 registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC).
First recognized as a breed:
Mr. J. B. Morrison wrote the first breed standard in England in 1880 and the first Scottish Terriers were brought to America around that time. The current AKC standard was approved on October 12, 1993.
AKC Grouping:
Terrier.
Size:
Height at the shoulder: approximately 10" for both sexes. Weight: males: 19-22 lbs.; females: 18-21 lbs.
Appearance:
Scotties have a stocky, compact overall profile. The head is long in proportion to overall size, with a slightly domed skull and slightly tapered muzzle. Almond-shaped eyes are small and dark. Ears are small and erect. Tail is also carried erect. Outer coat is lengthy, wiry, and weather-resistant; requires weekly
grooming, since close ground proximity promotes matting. Undercoat is soft and dense. AKC-acceptable coat colors include: black, wheaten, or brindle of any color.
#1 preventable health problem:
Scotties are prone to obesity and its resulting health problems. Feed your Scottie a balanced
nutritional dog food to maintain fitness and health.
Daily exercise is recommended.
Preferences:
Because Scotties are highly intelligent and easily bored, they prefer a wide variety of toys -
interactive toys, chew toys,
balls, and more. Select durable, lasting toys, since Scotties have very powerful jaws and can quickly chew up and ingest toys. Scotties also thrive on outdoor exploration and exercise, provided they are safely confined to prevent escape.
Best features:
Scotties are known for their intelligence and their devotion to a single person or family. They are also excellent watchdogs, alerting their owner(s) to anything out of the ordinary.
Biggest challenge to owners:
Many Scottie owners would call their dogs "obedience challenged" - their intelligence often causes stubbornness. However, once a Scottie has learned what his owner wishes of him, he is a quick study.
