In this article, we will discover all there is to know about the Scottish Terrier, from temperament and training to grooming and nutrition.
Get to know the Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier, or Scottie, is a small but feisty and dignified dog with a beard and wiry coat. The Scottish Terrier dog was originally bred in Scotland to hunt vermin and is renowned for its independent spirit, intelligence, and unwavering loyalty to its family.
Whether you are thinking of adopting a Scottish Terrier puppy or just want to learn more about this fascinating breed, this article will contain all the information you need, ranging from their temperament, training, grooming, health, and diet.
Scottish Terrier Breed Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Origin | Scotland |
| Size | Small |
| Weight | 18-22 lbs (8-10 kg) |
| Height | 10 inches (25 cm) |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Temperament | Confident, Independent, Loyal |
| Coat Type | Hard, Wiry, Double Coat |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate |
| Best For | Experienced Owners, Apartment Living |
Scottish Terrier Temperament and Personality
The Scottish Terrier is often described as fearless, dignified, and loyal. In contrast to most tiny breeds, Scotties have a big-dog personality and can be standoffish with strangers.
Key Personality Traits
- Loyal & Affectionate – Gets extremely attached to its owner.
- Independent Thinker – Stubborn and strong-willed.
- Confident & Brave – Not afraid to stand its ground.
- Alert & Watchful – Excellent watchdog.
- Playful but Reserved – Playful but prefers its own company.
Scotties are not friendly with strangers but are very protective and loyal to family. Early socialization is necessary to have a well-adjusted Scottish Terrier.
Training a Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers are smart but not necessarily eager to please, so this makes training a bit difficult. Scottish Terriers require a patient, firm, and consistent trainer.
Tips for Successfully Training a Good-Natured Scottish Terrier
- Train Early: Train from an early puppy phase to prevent stubborn attitudes from being developed.
- Use Reward System: Praise and reward with treats.
- Sessions Must be Brief & Enjoyable: Scotties quickly get tired of a task.
- Leash Training is a Must: As a very strong prey drive dog, they will be tempted to chase little animals.
- Socialization is Crucial: Expose them to different people, animals, and places when young.
Scotties respond to reward-based training but require patience and persistence since they are very independent.
Exercise and Activity Needs
Scottish Terriers are lightly active dogs that require at least 30-45 minutes of daily exercise.
Top Things for Scottish Terriers
- Daily Strolls: These keep them well and their batteries charged.
- Active Playtime: Tug and fetch are ideal choices.
- Little Hikes: They adore outings in safe places.
- Brain Toys & Puzzle Toys: Keep them active mentally.
Scotties aren’t overly hyper but need plenty of exercise daily to prevent them from getting into mischief and developing bad habits.
Grooming and Caring
Scottish Terriers have a distinctive double coat that needs to be groomed on a regular basis in order to keep its sharp look.
Grooming Schedule for a Scottish Terrier
- Brushing: Brush 2-3 times weekly to prevent matting.
- Hand Stripping: Preserve wiry texture by stripping every few months.
- Bathing: Bathe only when absolutely necessary in an effort to preserve natural oils.
- Ear Cleaning: Clean ears weekly to protect against infection.
- Nail Trimming: Trim your Scottish terrier nails in every 3-4 weeks to avoid overgrowth.
- Dental Care: Brush 2-3 times weekly to prevent tartar buildup.
Scotties require moderate grooming with professional grooming every so often highly advised for a smoothly groomed coat.
Typical Health Issues in Scottish Terriers
Scottish Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but they do carry some inherited problems.
Health Issues
- Scottie Cramp: Neurological disorder that includes problems with movement.
- Bladder Cancer: Scottish Terriers are at risk of developing bladder tumors.
- Von Willebrand’s Disease: Bleeding disorder that inhibits blood clotting.
- Hip Dysplasia: Affects mobility in senior Scotties.
Lifespan and Preventative Care
With proper care, a Scottish Terrier will live 12-15 years. Regular vet checks, vaccinations, and healthy eating are the key to a happy and healthy life.
Best Food for a Scottish Terrier
A balanced diet is the key to your Scottish Terrier’s health and vitality.
Top Dog Food Choices
- Royal Canin Small Breed – Designed for small, active dogs.
- Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula – Immune and digestive health.
- Wellness Core Grain-Free Small Breed – High protein and nutrient-dense.
Homemade Dog Food Tips
If you prefer home-cooked food, include:
- Lean meats (chicken, turkey, or fish)
- Whole grains (brown rice, quinoa)
- Vegetables (carrots, pumpkin, spinach)
Do not include chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, and excessive salt, as they are toxic to dogs.
Scottish Terrier vs. Other Terrier Breeds
| Feature | Scottish Terrier | West Highland Terrier | Cairn Terrier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barking | Moderate | High | Moderate |
| Grooming | Moderate | High | Low |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate | High | High |
| Trainability | Challenging | Moderate | Moderate |
Scotties are more independent and reserved compared to other terrier breeds.
FAQs
1. Are Scottish Terriers family-friendly?
Yes, but they are more suited for mature owners due to their independent temperament.
2. Do Scottish Terriers shed heavily?
No, they are low shedders but require their coat to be groomed on a regular basis.
3. Can Scottish Terriers be kept in apartments?
Yes, they are well-suited for apartment living as long as they get ample exercise.
4. Are Scottish Terriers hypoallergenic?
Yes, they are a hypoallergenic breed, making them suitable for sufferers of allergies.
5. How much does a Scottish Terrier puppy cost?
The cost of a Scottish Terrier puppy is between $1,200 and $3,000, depending on the breeder.
Is a Scottish Terrier Right for You?
The Scottish Terrier is the perfect dog for the owner who wants a faithful, independent, and dignified friend. They are low-shedding, smart, and loving and are perfect for singles and families.
If you’re interested in more dog care tips, check out these articles:
Would you love a Scottish Terrier as your next pet? Let us know in the comments!