The Scottish Terrier, affectionately known as the “Scottie,” is a breed that epitomizes determination and confidence. Characterized by its distinctive profile and dignified demeanor, this breed has a storied history as a skilled vermin hunter and hardy companion. Originating from the rugged terrain of Scotland, the breed is cherished today not only for its hunting prowess but also for its rugged and independent nature. Compact and sturdy, Scotties possess a charm that appeals to both show enthusiasts and pet people alike.
Terrier
10 inches
18 – 22 pounds
12 years
| Country of Origin | Scotland |
|---|---|
| Bred For | Vermin Hunting, Companionship |
| Known For | Short Legs, Independence, Stubbornness |
| Popularity | Moderate |
| Temperament | Alert, Determined, Spirited |
| Activities | Hunting, Walking, Hiking, Conformation Shows, Dog Sports |
The Scottish Terrier dog breed boasts a heritage rich in history and character. This breed’s journey from Scotland’s rugged landscapes to the hearts of dog lovers worldwide is a testament to its enduring appeal.
Originating in Scotland, Scottish Terriers were initially bred for their prowess in hunting and vermin control. Their compact size and agile physique made them ideal for navigating the rough terrain of the Scottish Highlands. The breed’s early history saw them lumped together with other terriers of the region, but by the late 19th century, efforts were made to distinguish and refine the Scottish Terrier as a distinct breed.
The rise of the Scottish Terrier is marked by the development of specific breeding programs in the late 1800s. These programs were dedicated to enhancing the breed’s unique characteristics, including its robust build, distinctive coat, and bold personality. The breed’s standardization was a significant step in establishing its identity separate from other terrier types native to Scotland.
Scottish Terriers gained widespread popularity in the United Kingdom, capturing the imagination of dog enthusiasts with their courage, confidence, and distinctive appearance. Their charm soon crossed the Atlantic, leading to a surge in popularity in the United States. The breed was one of the early members of the American Kennel Club’s Terrier Group, receiving official recognition in 1885.
The breed’s stature grew further in the United States, particularly when several U.S. Presidents chose Scottish Terriers as their companions, elevating the breed’s profile in American culture. Despite the changes in breeding practices and shifts in popularity over the years, the Scottish Terrier has remained a symbol of determination and rugged charm.
Throughout its history, the Scottish Terrier has been celebrated for its unique character and steadfast loyalty. Whether in the show ring or as a beloved family pet, the Scottie continues to be a favorite for its distinctive personality and appearance. The breed’s history, from its origins in the Scottish Highlands to its current status as a cherished companion, highlights the enduring legacy of the Scottish Terrier.
Adult Scottish Terriers typically stand about 10 inches tall at the shoulder. In terms of weight, males generally weigh between 19 to 22 pounds, with females usually in the range of 18 to 21 pounds.
The Scottish Terrier boasts a compact body with a robust bone structure, endowing it with a solid and substantial feel. Proportionally, the Scottish Terrier is longer than it is tall, measured from the back of the withers to the set-on of the tail and from the top of the withers to the ground. These proportions contribute to the breed’s distinctive gait, which combines power and vigor with smoothness and fluidity. Substantial bone, coupled with a muscular build, endows the Scottie with remarkable strength and agility, qualities that are essential for a breed historically bred for digging and hunting vermin.
Texture: The Scottish Terrier’s coat is a distinctive breed feature, notable for its unique “broken” texture. It boasts a hard, wiry outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat. This dual layer not only gives the breed its characteristic appearance, it also serves as protection against harsh weather and rough terrain. The coat is typically trimmed (by hand), blending the topcoat with the longer furnishings to create the breed’s classic silhouette which is enhanced by longer coat on the beard, eyebrows, lower body, and legs.
| Standard Color | |
|---|---|
| Black | ee |
| Black Brindle | ee |
| Brindle | ee |
| Red Brindle | ee |
| Silver Brindle | ee |
| Wheaten | ee |
A Note About Color: The properties of the Scottish Terrier’s coat are more important than the coat’s color. The breed may be solid or brindled, darker or lighter in a variety of acceptable colors. Brindle-colored dogs can have varying shades and depths of color; wheaten dogs can range from a deep red to more a pale coloration; black dogs can have a small amount of white on the chin (known as a “milk beard”). A few white hairs may also be found on the body coat, but an all-white coat is unacceptable. However, rare colors, such as solid red and sandy, are sometimes seen in the breed and are permissible.
The tail of a Scottish Terrier is moderate in length, about seven inches long, providing a balance with the head’s carriage. It is set high and carried erectly or may be slightly curved forward. It does not curl over the back. The tail is thick at its base, covered in short, hard hair, and tapers to a fine point.
The Scottie’s tail is never docked. Its natural length and carriage have historically enabled the dog to be pulled safely from burrows where it has cornered unwanted (and dangerous) vermin. The tail is a symbol of the breed’s confidence in itself and its capacity to meet any challenge head-on.
Owning a Scottish Terrier, known for its distinct personality and dignified demeanor, is a rewarding experience for dog lovers. However, it’s important to understand the unique characteristics and needs of this breed to ensure a harmonious relationship between the dog and its human companion. Scottish Terriers, with their independent nature and strong-willed temperament, require an owner who can provide firm, consistent training and a structured environment.
