The Scottish Terrier at a Glance
This breed is often lovingly referred to as the "Scottie,". It is equipped with a distinctive profile and a hard, wiry, weather-resistant coat that comes in a black, brindle or wheaten color. The instantly recognizable look is given by its long beard and squarely shaped eyebrows. It's legs and lower body are traditionally shaggy. Because it belongs to the Terrier group, Scotties are small yet robust, fast, alert and playful. The Scottish Terrier is a small, compact, short-legged, sturdily-built dog of heavy bone structure and substance. He is bold, confident and dignified and these aspects exemplify power in a small package.
Did You Know?
The Scottie is the only breed of dog that has lived in the White House three times, with Presidents Roosevelt, Eisenhower and George W. Bush.
Blast from the Past:
Naturally a "digger" at heart, the Scottie was originally bred to hunt and kill vermin and fox on farms. Scotties were introduced to America in the 1890’s.
© The American Kennel Club, Inc.
Westminster Kennel Club 'Best in Show' Winner:
February 17th 2010, a Scottish Terrier named "Sadie" blew past the competition to take the prestigious award of 'Best in Show' at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show! She is the 1st Scottie to win since 1995.
Did You Know?
The Scottie is the only breed of dog that has lived in the White House three times, with Presidents Roosevelt, Eisenhower and George W. Bush.
Blast from the Past:
Naturally a "digger" at heart, the Scottie was originally bred to hunt and kill vermin and fox on farms. Scotties were introduced to America in the 1890’s.
© The American Kennel Club, Inc.
Westminster Kennel Club 'Best in Show' Winner:
February 17th 2010, a Scottish Terrier named "Sadie" blew past the competition to take the prestigious award of 'Best in Show' at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show! She is the 1st Scottie to win since 1995.
Claim to Fame
Scottish Terrier 'Jock', Lady and the Tramp
The Scottish Terrier lit up the silver screen in the 1955 Walt Disney production of Lady and the Tramp. We all remember the fiesty, yet gentlemenly, Scottie named 'Jock' with his unforgettable Scottish accent. When this Disney film filled homes in America, the popularity of the Scottie breed blossomed!
Temperment
The Scottish Terrier should be alert and spirited but also stable and steady-going. He is a determined and thoughtful dog whose "heads up, tails up" attitude should convey both fire and control. The Scottish Terrier, while loving and gentle with people, can be aggressive with other dogs. He should exude ruggedness and power, living up to his nickname, the "Diehard." Scotties are extremely loveable, friendly, eager to please and devoted family companions. They thrive around human interaction. They adore children and are fantastic as playmates for them because of their short, stalky, and thick-boned stature. Children and Scotties can wrestle and play all day without fear of injury to the dog like there may be with a breed such as the Chihuahua.
Before Considering the Scottie, consider this...
Scotties thrive as house pets and are gentle, loving members of their families. But, is this the right breed for you? Their spirited and tenacious nature requires a firm discipline, obedience training and regular exercise. The Scottie breed is one of few breeds that made it's way to the 21st century with its instincts intact. This makes the Scottie still to this day a fantastic ratter, hunter, chaser and digger and this purpose still pulses strong within them. These instincts pre-disposes the Scottie to be stubborn, vivacious, demanding and determined. These known facts about the Scottie may cause you to re-think your choice if this is to be a pet for the elderly, a person/family that is not home often, or lacks the time and patience to steer this vibrant personality in the right direction. Rule #1 in owning a Scottie is, you must be tougher than your Scottie - or they'll walk all over you! Also consider that the Scottie coat requires regular brushing and clipping to remove foreign objects that it has gathered while out on it's daily romp. The wiry hair attracts leaves, twigs and mud very easily (characteristic of original purpose). Scottie's are minimal shedders but need to be brushed on a regular basis to prevent matting.
Do not let this information deter you from experiencing this fantastically vibrant breed with a zest for life. Just let it be a guide and prepare you for what lies ahead!
Happy Puppy Hunting!
Do not let this information deter you from experiencing this fantastically vibrant breed with a zest for life. Just let it be a guide and prepare you for what lies ahead!
Happy Puppy Hunting!