Group: Terrier

Weight: male: 19-22, female: 18-21 lbs

Height: 10 inches



History

There are many different stories surrounding the origin of the Scottish terrier. They were originally called Aberdeen terriers, and were developed in and around Aberdeen, Scotland during the late 1900s. The origin of these dogs goes as far back as the early 18th. Scottish Terriers were bred and developed to hunt animals such as foxes, otters and rabbits. Today the primary function of Scottish Terriers is those of a family dog.

Characteristics

Scottish Terriers has a very brave and distinguished way about them. They do not show their love and affection to everyone, and will typically first watch someone before making a decision about them – the same with their environment. Scottish Terriers are very clever and independent dogs.

Temperament

Scottish Terriers are very independent and self-assured dogs. They also possess lots of confidence, and can also be very obstinate and wilful. These dogs are very brave and determined, and will make good companions dogs for the family. They require firm owners, and will therefore work well with someone that has some previous dog ownerships experience. Housebreaking these dogs can be difficult, seeing that these dogs are so hard headed. Scotties have lots of energy, and shows enthusiasm in everything they do. Scottish Terriers are very committed dogs, and they are also very effective watch dogs.

Care

Show dogs need quite a bit of professional grooming, and this includes hand stripping their coats from time to time. The coats of these dogs are kept long when they are used in the show ring. The companion Scotties’ coats should be clipped twice a year to reduce the amount of grooming that is required. The coats of a Scottie should be combed and brushed about three times during the week. For more detailed info, take a look at the Scottish Terrier Grooming page.

Training

The Scottish terrier will perform at his best if they are socialised early on, and this will help to avoid aggression later on in life. The fact that these little dogs are so independent makes training quite a challenge. Scotties can be very obstinate, so it is therefore very important to motivate them. They tend to do well in obedience if the proper training methods are applied.