Scottish Terrier Breed Profile: Essential Facts
Scottish Terriers are small, fearless dogs with a lot of personality. They're great for apartments but not recommended for homes with young children.
Scottish Terrier
- AKC Group: Terrier
- Weight: 18–22 lbs.
- Height: 10 in.
- Life Span: 15 years
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Key Characteristics
Scottish Terriers, a.k.a. Scotties, are small, playful terriers with short legs. They are the most popular breed in the White House, being in the White House with 3 U.S. presidents: Roosevelt, Eisenhower and George W. Bush.
These small terriers have almond-shaped eyes, pointed high-standing ears and a tail that tapers in thickness that can be straight or slightly curved. The coarse, weather-resistant coat has a soft undercoat and comes in colors of black, brindle or wheaten.
Where They Came From
Hailing from Scotland, the breed was used to hunt fox and vermin for farmers. Their first dog show appearance in England occurred in 1860.
Many dogs competing in later shows were other types of terriers, and this angered Scottish fanciers so much they wrote letters of protest that were published in 1877. The ensuing controversy became so heated that the Live Stock Journal refused to print any more letters; they would only print descriptions of the breed standard submitted to them. The arguing subsided, and in 1880, J. B. Morrison wrote the breed standard.
In 1883, the first Scotties were imported into the United States. The first Sottish terrier born in America was Dake, a brindle Scottie born in 1884 in Indiana. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1885.
How Friendly Are They?
Scotties are fast, alert, sporty and playful dogs. They can be fearless and feisty, and this earned them the nickname "Die Hard."
They are gentle and loving, and make excellent watchdogs. They are also smart dogs and need socialization and obedience training. They are sensitive to harsh discipline, so calm but consistent instruction is necessary.
Small dogs without consistent training and leadership can take over the home believing they are in charge, and for this reason they may not be suitable for homes with very young children (although this varies with each individual dog). Scotties love being around their family members, but other animals? Not so much. They usually scrap with other dogs, don't care for cats and will chase smaller animals.
Digging is an instinctive trait in the Scottie, so provide a place where it is acceptable for your dog to dig to fulfill this instinct. This may prove difficult for Scotties in apartments, but enough daily exercise should tire them out.
Is This the Right Dog for You?
Exercise Needs
MEDIUM: Scotties should be walked daily and are active indoors. Because of their hunting instincts, they are likely to give chase after small animals. They should be kept on a leash when outdoors or exercised in a secure or fenced area.
They do well in apartments since they are active and enjoy playing, but they should still be taken for daily walks. This breed is not suitable for living outdoors and needs to be with their family members.
Grooming Needs
MEDIUM: Scotties do not shed too much, but shedding may increase with seasonal changes. They should be brushed daily, especially when the dog is shedding more than usual.
Professional trimming of the coat is recommended and should be done twice a year. Regular health routines for the ears, teeth and nails should be followed and maintained as needed.
Health Problems
HIGH: Although not every Scottie will experience these issues, the following health problems have been noted in the breed: Scottie cramp (a condition affecting movement)
- Von Willebrand's disease (bleeding disorder similar to hemophilia in humans)
- Flea allergy
- Skin problems
- Mast cell tumors
- Cushing's disease
- Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
- Epilepsy
- Craniomandibular osteopathy (jaw bone defect)
- Liver shunts
- Juvenile cataracts
- Cerebellar abiotrophy (genetic disorder of the cerebellum affecting movement, most commonly running and climbing stairs)
- Check out these romping Scotties:
Where to Adopt One?
Check Petful's adoption search to find a Scottish Terrier near you. Also check shelters, rescues and breed club rescues to find a Scottie in need of a home.
If you contact a breeder, watch out for the signs indicating a puppy mill is being operated.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Frequently Asked Questions
Scottish Terriers can be good family dogs, but they are best suited for households with older children and experienced owners. They are independent, loyal, and protective but may not tolerate rough handling.
Scottish Terriers are affectionate but not overly cuddly. They prefer being near their owners rather than being lap dogs, though they enjoy companionship on their own terms.
Yes, Scottish Terriers require regular grooming due to their wiry coat, along with consistent training and mental stimulation. They also need firm but patient handling due to their strong-willed nature.
Yes, Scottish Terriers tend to bark frequently, especially when alerting their owners to unfamiliar sounds or people. Proper training can help manage excessive barking.
Additional Resources
- American Kennel Club's Scottish Terrier page
- Scottish Terrier Club of America
- The Scottish Terrier Club (England)
Kristine Lacoste has been researching dog and cat breeds for nearly a decade and has observed the animals up close at dog shows in both the United States and the United Kingdom. She is the author of the book One Unforgettable Journey, which was named as a finalist for a Maxwell Award from the Dog Writers Association of America, and was host of a weekly pet news segment on the National K-9 Academy Radio Show. In addition, she was the New Orleans coordinator for Dogs on Deployment, a nonprofit that helps military members and their pets, for 3 years. Kristine has researched and written about pet behaviors and care for many years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, another bachelor’s degree in English and a Master of Business Administration degree.
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