Scottish Terrier (Scottie)
Compiled and researched by Izelle de Klerk (BSc) - Dodgy Dogs & Crazy Cats
Canine & Feline Behaviourist
Canine & Feline Behaviourist
Pic - Scottish Terrier Rescue. If you are considering one of these wonderful dogs, please do consider rescue first and foremost. Breed rescue do a wonderful job of pairing the right dog with the right home, and are passionate about their breed. Link below, and if not close to you, please do search for one that is. https://stecs.net/
Despite being an old breed, the Scottish Terrier's history is somewhat obscure and undocumented. The Scottie's origin is believed to date back to a dog that was described by Pliny the Elder in 55 B.C. When the Romans invaded Britain, he wrote, "They found, much to their surprise, small dogs that would follow their quarry to the ground." The Romans called the dogs terrarii, which means "workers of the earth" and is derived from terra, the Latin word for earth.
This Old Scotch Terrier (as described above) is believed to be one of the oldest breeds in Scotland and the foundation dog for all of today's terrier breeds. The breed is extinct today but was described as a stable worker with strength, courage, and stamina, who could breach his quarry's rocky dens. The breed was a black or sandy-colored dog that was low in stature, strong, with long hair and small, half-prick ears.
During the 1800s, Scotland had many terriers. By the end of the century, the dogs had been separated into two different groups, the Dandie Dinmont Terriers and the Skye Terriers (although the latter was a fairly generic name given to all terriers that came from the Isle of Skye). The Scottish Terrier was grouped under the Skye Terriers and shown under that class in the show ring until the 1870s. At that time, the standard for the Scottish Terrier was written and, by the end of the nineteenth century, the Skye Terriers had been divided into the four different breeds we know today: the Scottish Terrier, Skye Terrier, West Highland White Terrier, and the Cairn Terrier
They were originally bred to hunt and kill vermin on farms and badgers and foxes in the Highlands of Scotland. This hunting instinct is still very strong today.
The Scottish Terrier (also called the "Scottie”) is a small, short-legged dog with a compact and sturdy build. It is best recognized for its erect ears and tail, distinctive profile and hard, wiry, shaggy, weather-resistant outer coat in a black, brindle or wheaten color.
Personality
They are playful and friendly as a puppy, but mature into an independent, bold, confident, dignified and playful dog. They are not particularly jolly and can be quite reserved but are known as the dog with a lot of personality in a little body - brave, curious, feisty, and opinionated. But it's all worth it in the end, to have a gentle, loving, loyal, intelligent, reliable, protective and sensitive companion.
Scotties are territorial, alert, quick moving and feisty, perhaps even more so than other terrier breeds. The breed is known to be independent and self-assured, and has been nicknamed the 'Diehard' because of its rugged nature and endless determination. Scotties, while being described as very loving, have also been described as stubborn.
Is this the correct pup for you, which is the best home and why?
This dog will adapt to any living arrangement - from a farm to an apartment. They are moderately active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Due to their double coat they tend to overheat easily and so they prefer cooler climates.
They make great watchdogs and will be sure to announce an approaching stranger. They will also announce an approaching squirrel or passing bicycle. Although many terriers are known as yappy, the Scottish Terrier is not - they have a loud alert bark and a tendency to bark only when necessary.
Scotties are not low-energy small dogs, they were bred as working dogs and have lots of drive and intelligence that needs to be channelled. They need daily moderate exercise and stimulation. However due to their incredibly short legs, they are not recommended as jogging companions - but they make perfect walking companion. It is important to keep them on leash for walks because their hunting instinct is very strong and they will chase almost anything - they will see the squirrel but not the car. They love to play outside or romp in a open area off lead, just make sure the area is safe and fenced in. Other ways of exercising them both physically as well as mentally is by participating in sporting events such as agility and earthdog trials.
If Scotties are bored and under-exercised they can become destructive, and they love to chew everything.
This breed was originally bred to hunt and retrieve their pray from holes in the ground, thus they are prone to dig as well as chase small vermin, such as squirrels, rats, and mice. You will enjoy a rodent-free yard but it might be full of dug up holes. Because they are naturally instinctive diggers it's better to find a designated digging area in your backyard then fight this instinct.
Scotties cannot swim, although they like water they sink like a stone because of their short legs and heavy body. If you have a pool you will have to take care to keep your Scottie from falling in
It is very important to take your Scottie to socialization classes when he's a puppy, if left unchecked they can become aggressive.
Because of their small size and stubborn nature these dogs are prone to develop Small Dog Syndrome, this is where the dog believes that they are boss and is due to the fact that the owner is too lenient with them and lets them get away with more that they should because they are so small and cute. His can lead to behavioural problems such as moodiness, snapping, protectiveness and obsessive barking. To prevent this you need to give this dog rules, and limits to what they are and are not allowed to do; be firm and consistent.
There is no denying that this brave and jaunty little aristocrat of the dog world is loved, respected, and adored for all his idiosyncrasies. Having a dog that is more partner than servant can be a wonderful experience--but it's not for everyone. If you prefer a dog that is eager to please, think twice about living with a Scottish Terrier.
In a nutshell, this dog is for you if you:
This Old Scotch Terrier (as described above) is believed to be one of the oldest breeds in Scotland and the foundation dog for all of today's terrier breeds. The breed is extinct today but was described as a stable worker with strength, courage, and stamina, who could breach his quarry's rocky dens. The breed was a black or sandy-colored dog that was low in stature, strong, with long hair and small, half-prick ears.
During the 1800s, Scotland had many terriers. By the end of the century, the dogs had been separated into two different groups, the Dandie Dinmont Terriers and the Skye Terriers (although the latter was a fairly generic name given to all terriers that came from the Isle of Skye). The Scottish Terrier was grouped under the Skye Terriers and shown under that class in the show ring until the 1870s. At that time, the standard for the Scottish Terrier was written and, by the end of the nineteenth century, the Skye Terriers had been divided into the four different breeds we know today: the Scottish Terrier, Skye Terrier, West Highland White Terrier, and the Cairn Terrier
They were originally bred to hunt and kill vermin on farms and badgers and foxes in the Highlands of Scotland. This hunting instinct is still very strong today.
The Scottish Terrier (also called the "Scottie”) is a small, short-legged dog with a compact and sturdy build. It is best recognized for its erect ears and tail, distinctive profile and hard, wiry, shaggy, weather-resistant outer coat in a black, brindle or wheaten color.
Personality
They are playful and friendly as a puppy, but mature into an independent, bold, confident, dignified and playful dog. They are not particularly jolly and can be quite reserved but are known as the dog with a lot of personality in a little body - brave, curious, feisty, and opinionated. But it's all worth it in the end, to have a gentle, loving, loyal, intelligent, reliable, protective and sensitive companion.
Scotties are territorial, alert, quick moving and feisty, perhaps even more so than other terrier breeds. The breed is known to be independent and self-assured, and has been nicknamed the 'Diehard' because of its rugged nature and endless determination. Scotties, while being described as very loving, have also been described as stubborn.
Is this the correct pup for you, which is the best home and why?
This dog will adapt to any living arrangement - from a farm to an apartment. They are moderately active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Due to their double coat they tend to overheat easily and so they prefer cooler climates.
They make great watchdogs and will be sure to announce an approaching stranger. They will also announce an approaching squirrel or passing bicycle. Although many terriers are known as yappy, the Scottish Terrier is not - they have a loud alert bark and a tendency to bark only when necessary.
Scotties are not low-energy small dogs, they were bred as working dogs and have lots of drive and intelligence that needs to be channelled. They need daily moderate exercise and stimulation. However due to their incredibly short legs, they are not recommended as jogging companions - but they make perfect walking companion. It is important to keep them on leash for walks because their hunting instinct is very strong and they will chase almost anything - they will see the squirrel but not the car. They love to play outside or romp in a open area off lead, just make sure the area is safe and fenced in. Other ways of exercising them both physically as well as mentally is by participating in sporting events such as agility and earthdog trials.
If Scotties are bored and under-exercised they can become destructive, and they love to chew everything.
This breed was originally bred to hunt and retrieve their pray from holes in the ground, thus they are prone to dig as well as chase small vermin, such as squirrels, rats, and mice. You will enjoy a rodent-free yard but it might be full of dug up holes. Because they are naturally instinctive diggers it's better to find a designated digging area in your backyard then fight this instinct.
Scotties cannot swim, although they like water they sink like a stone because of their short legs and heavy body. If you have a pool you will have to take care to keep your Scottie from falling in
It is very important to take your Scottie to socialization classes when he's a puppy, if left unchecked they can become aggressive.
Because of their small size and stubborn nature these dogs are prone to develop Small Dog Syndrome, this is where the dog believes that they are boss and is due to the fact that the owner is too lenient with them and lets them get away with more that they should because they are so small and cute. His can lead to behavioural problems such as moodiness, snapping, protectiveness and obsessive barking. To prevent this you need to give this dog rules, and limits to what they are and are not allowed to do; be firm and consistent.
There is no denying that this brave and jaunty little aristocrat of the dog world is loved, respected, and adored for all his idiosyncrasies. Having a dog that is more partner than servant can be a wonderful experience--but it's not for everyone. If you prefer a dog that is eager to please, think twice about living with a Scottish Terrier.
In a nutshell, this dog is for you if you:
- Are willing to spend time socializing them, they tend to be aloof with strangers and can be aggressive to other dogs if they are not properly socialized when young.
- Want a high-energy small dog, they need daily exercise & stimulation. They are not the type to sit indoors and do nothing.
- Have the time to properly groom them
- Are willing to put the time and effort in to training them
- Want a dog that will go anywhere and do anything with you.
- Don’t mind the dog digging all over the garden
- Are looking for a watchdog
Where do I get my pup from?
Only from reputable breeders! One can contact the Kennel Union Of South Africa (KUSA) . They have a list of breeders who have puppies available.
Always try and meet both parents of the puppies. This is not always possible as the sire (father) may be an imported dog. Definitely ask to see the mother.
Please read our articles on how to choose a reputable breeder on the Puppies page.
Which other breeds are most compatible with the Scottish Terrier?
These dogs will get along with most other dogs as long as they have been socialized properly from a young age.
The best option is a dog that is not very dominating or challenging; like a Pitbull or Staffie; as a Scottie will not back down from a challenge.
Good breeds to go for will be one that is hardy and playful with a high-energy temperament; like another Scottie, Boxer or Labrador.
Is it wise to have two or more of the same breed?
Most definitely, this is the most ideal situation as they understand each other. Preferably have a male and female. Two females will also get along as long as they are introduced as puppies. An older female will get on with a puppy female but it is not advisable to introduce two fully grown females. Always have only one male unless you have a lot of experience handling dogs.
Should I get two pups together?
This is not a good idea. Most people think that the pups will be happier with a playmate and won’t fight if they are family. The truth of the matter is that your two pups are likely to:
Please read ‘Placing Littermates in the same home’ and ‘Double Trouble – (why you shouldn’t get two puppies)’ on our website for more information.
Is it wise to keep same-sex dogs?
To keep two or more same-sex dogs of a rather dominant breed together, is often a recipe for conflict. They can get along fine, until they are ‘triggered’ by a ball or a bone lying on the lawn, when both might want to take possession of it, or by someone delivering mail and when they rush for the gate and can’t get to the ‘intruder’, they go for one another. Additionally, as the pup reaches the adolescent stage, its own position in the canine pack will assume much importance. This can lead to fighting between dogs and especially in the case of two females. The fights can be very serious and may not be able to be solved.
Do they get on well with other animals?
These dogs are true terriers, if other dogs leave him alone, he will leave them alone but if another dog provokes him, he'll fight to the end and they have no problem starting a fight with dogs three times their size. They can be aggressive with other dogs, particularly those of the same sex but are generally fine with dogs they have been raised with.
Because they are hunters, they are not well suited to smaller pets. They may tolerate cats (as long as the cat doesn’t run away - to which the dog will chase), but small mammals such as hamsters or rats are like fast-food snacks. It's hardwired in the Scottie to go after vermin - it's not a choice.
Keep in mind that, like with all dogs, the level at which these dogs get along with other animals depends greatly on how well they were socialized as pups
Only from reputable breeders! One can contact the Kennel Union Of South Africa (KUSA) . They have a list of breeders who have puppies available.
Always try and meet both parents of the puppies. This is not always possible as the sire (father) may be an imported dog. Definitely ask to see the mother.
Please read our articles on how to choose a reputable breeder on the Puppies page.
Which other breeds are most compatible with the Scottish Terrier?
These dogs will get along with most other dogs as long as they have been socialized properly from a young age.
The best option is a dog that is not very dominating or challenging; like a Pitbull or Staffie; as a Scottie will not back down from a challenge.
Good breeds to go for will be one that is hardy and playful with a high-energy temperament; like another Scottie, Boxer or Labrador.
Is it wise to have two or more of the same breed?
Most definitely, this is the most ideal situation as they understand each other. Preferably have a male and female. Two females will also get along as long as they are introduced as puppies. An older female will get on with a puppy female but it is not advisable to introduce two fully grown females. Always have only one male unless you have a lot of experience handling dogs.
Should I get two pups together?
This is not a good idea. Most people think that the pups will be happier with a playmate and won’t fight if they are family. The truth of the matter is that your two pups are likely to:
- Bond with each other to the exclusion of you
- Will stress without the other dog being around
- Fight with each other
- Be more destructive and boisterous
- Two pups together often leads to one being more assertive and the other more submissive. This could well end up in a situation where the more submissive dog will never develop its full potential.
- Mature later
Please read ‘Placing Littermates in the same home’ and ‘Double Trouble – (why you shouldn’t get two puppies)’ on our website for more information.
Is it wise to keep same-sex dogs?
To keep two or more same-sex dogs of a rather dominant breed together, is often a recipe for conflict. They can get along fine, until they are ‘triggered’ by a ball or a bone lying on the lawn, when both might want to take possession of it, or by someone delivering mail and when they rush for the gate and can’t get to the ‘intruder’, they go for one another. Additionally, as the pup reaches the adolescent stage, its own position in the canine pack will assume much importance. This can lead to fighting between dogs and especially in the case of two females. The fights can be very serious and may not be able to be solved.
Do they get on well with other animals?
These dogs are true terriers, if other dogs leave him alone, he will leave them alone but if another dog provokes him, he'll fight to the end and they have no problem starting a fight with dogs three times their size. They can be aggressive with other dogs, particularly those of the same sex but are generally fine with dogs they have been raised with.
Because they are hunters, they are not well suited to smaller pets. They may tolerate cats (as long as the cat doesn’t run away - to which the dog will chase), but small mammals such as hamsters or rats are like fast-food snacks. It's hardwired in the Scottie to go after vermin - it's not a choice.
Keep in mind that, like with all dogs, the level at which these dogs get along with other animals depends greatly on how well they were socialized as pups
Are they good with children?
These dogs love family companionship and are gentle and playful with children, they are also considerate of the elderly.
However they are not suited for homes with babies and toddlers, because it's the Scottie's nature to stand up for himself when prodded and pulled, this can translate into a bite. They also sometimes think it is a game to chase toddlers and knock them down. They do much better in a home with older children, and you will need to be cautious if young children come to visit. But with well-behaved children, they are champion and will appoint themselves their guardian.
They don’t naturally trust strangers and can show aggression to those they deem suspicious (this can include young children). This is one reason why they need proper socialization as puppies.
Training requirements and grooming
Training
Scottish Terriers can be difficult to train because they were bred to work apart from their owner, without needing direction. A Scottie won't stop and ask you what to do next but will do it on his own. That's why Scotties generally don't score high in obedience rallies (they're better suited to agility).
This isn't to say that they are un-trainable, but rather that their temperament is suited to working separately from their owners, as they often sets their own course. In other words they can be quite stubborn, if you ask them to do something they will always want to know what's in it for them. They are harder to train and learn new commands more slowly than the majority of other breeds.
They don't do well with aggressive training, as they have a kind heart that can be broken easily if they perceives mistreatment. You will need to be extra patient and gentle when training them, they thrive on positive reinforcement.
Crate training benefits every dog and is a kind way to ensure that your Scottie doesn't have accidents in the house or get into things he shouldn't. A crate is also a place where he can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will help your Scottie accept confinement if he ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized.
Grooming
The Scottish Terrier typically has a hard, wiry outer coat with a soft, dense undercoat and they shed very lightly. Many believe that the Scottish Terrier is easy to maintain, but in reality the breed needs a great deal of grooming.
For pet dogs cut their coat short every two months and then it only needs to be brushed weekly. These dogs have softer hair (not preferred in the breed standard) and a duller coat color.
For a show dog the coat should be trimmed several times a year and brushed daily. If you plan to show your Scottie in conformation, avoid clipping as it is difficult to get the hair back into the proper standard
Only bathe them when necessary as their skin dries out easily.
Other grooming requirements include; trimming their nails regularly if they don't wear them down naturally, and brushing their teeth at least two or three times a week to remove tartar buildup and the bacteria that lurk inside it.
As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the ears, nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Ears should smell good, without too much wax or gunk inside, and eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early.
Health concerns
Scottish Terriers are generally healthy, but like all breeds of dogs, they're prone to certain conditions and diseases; including bleeding disorders, jaw & joint disorders, autoimmune diseases, allergies, and cancer. There is also a condition named after the breed called Scotty cram; this occurs when the dogs experience stress or are over-exercised, in severe cases some dogs can’t walk at all during this period. This however is not a life threatening progressive disorder and does not need treatment.
“In today’s age, with the rising cost of veterinary care, it really is a wise decision to consider medical insurance for your pets. Depending on the plan you choose, you can ensure that if your pet does develop one of the health issues the breed is prone too, that you will be covered –additionally, just knowing that any accident your pet may have will be covered, will out-weigh the monthly insurance fee for most pet owners. Our own personal choice is Genricpet as they have a ‘no limit’ policy and their rates are comparable to the rest of the industry. To find out the questions and things to look for in a Medical Insurance, please just follow this link”
Life expectancy
Their life expectancy is 12 - 15 years
Interesting Facts
These dogs love family companionship and are gentle and playful with children, they are also considerate of the elderly.
However they are not suited for homes with babies and toddlers, because it's the Scottie's nature to stand up for himself when prodded and pulled, this can translate into a bite. They also sometimes think it is a game to chase toddlers and knock them down. They do much better in a home with older children, and you will need to be cautious if young children come to visit. But with well-behaved children, they are champion and will appoint themselves their guardian.
They don’t naturally trust strangers and can show aggression to those they deem suspicious (this can include young children). This is one reason why they need proper socialization as puppies.
Training requirements and grooming
Training
Scottish Terriers can be difficult to train because they were bred to work apart from their owner, without needing direction. A Scottie won't stop and ask you what to do next but will do it on his own. That's why Scotties generally don't score high in obedience rallies (they're better suited to agility).
This isn't to say that they are un-trainable, but rather that their temperament is suited to working separately from their owners, as they often sets their own course. In other words they can be quite stubborn, if you ask them to do something they will always want to know what's in it for them. They are harder to train and learn new commands more slowly than the majority of other breeds.
They don't do well with aggressive training, as they have a kind heart that can be broken easily if they perceives mistreatment. You will need to be extra patient and gentle when training them, they thrive on positive reinforcement.
Crate training benefits every dog and is a kind way to ensure that your Scottie doesn't have accidents in the house or get into things he shouldn't. A crate is also a place where he can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will help your Scottie accept confinement if he ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized.
Grooming
The Scottish Terrier typically has a hard, wiry outer coat with a soft, dense undercoat and they shed very lightly. Many believe that the Scottish Terrier is easy to maintain, but in reality the breed needs a great deal of grooming.
For pet dogs cut their coat short every two months and then it only needs to be brushed weekly. These dogs have softer hair (not preferred in the breed standard) and a duller coat color.
For a show dog the coat should be trimmed several times a year and brushed daily. If you plan to show your Scottie in conformation, avoid clipping as it is difficult to get the hair back into the proper standard
Only bathe them when necessary as their skin dries out easily.
Other grooming requirements include; trimming their nails regularly if they don't wear them down naturally, and brushing their teeth at least two or three times a week to remove tartar buildup and the bacteria that lurk inside it.
As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the ears, nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Ears should smell good, without too much wax or gunk inside, and eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early.
Health concerns
Scottish Terriers are generally healthy, but like all breeds of dogs, they're prone to certain conditions and diseases; including bleeding disorders, jaw & joint disorders, autoimmune diseases, allergies, and cancer. There is also a condition named after the breed called Scotty cram; this occurs when the dogs experience stress or are over-exercised, in severe cases some dogs can’t walk at all during this period. This however is not a life threatening progressive disorder and does not need treatment.
“In today’s age, with the rising cost of veterinary care, it really is a wise decision to consider medical insurance for your pets. Depending on the plan you choose, you can ensure that if your pet does develop one of the health issues the breed is prone too, that you will be covered –additionally, just knowing that any accident your pet may have will be covered, will out-weigh the monthly insurance fee for most pet owners. Our own personal choice is Genricpet as they have a ‘no limit’ policy and their rates are comparable to the rest of the industry. To find out the questions and things to look for in a Medical Insurance, please just follow this link”
Life expectancy
Their life expectancy is 12 - 15 years
Interesting Facts
- Behind German Shepherds and Rottweilers, Scotties have been ranked third in alarm barking.
- The Scottish Terriers appears in Disney's Lady and the Tramp as the gruff friend of an animated cocker spaniel, who portrayed loyalty and protectiveness when he told an equally animated Tramp to take a walk without the Lady. The Scottish Terrier Jock evoked an image that generations of children have enjoyed.
- Scottish Terriers have won best in show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show more than any other breed except for the Wire Fox Terrier - a total of nine times.
- The Scottie is also renowned for being featured in the popular board game, Monopoly, as a player token. When the game was first created in the 1930s, Scotties were one of the most popular pets in the United States, and it is also one of the most popular Monopoly game tokens, according to Matt Collins, vice president of marketing for Hasbro.
- The Scottish Terrier is the only breed of dog that has lived in the White House three times, with Presidents Roosevelt, Eisenhower and George W. Bush.
- Other famous people who are known to have owned Scotties include: Queen Victoria, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Ed Whitfield, Rudyard Kipling, President of Poland - Lech Kaczynski, Shirley Temple and Hitler got two Scottish Terriers for his fiancé.
Do`s and Don`ts of this breed
Do’s
Don’ts
Reference
http://www.petsplace.co.za/scottish_terrier.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scottish_Terrier
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/scottishterrier.htm
http://www.akc.org/breeds/scottish_terrier/index.cfm
http://www.justdogbreeds.com/scottish-terrier.html
http://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/scottish-terrier
Do’s
- Socialise and train Scottish Terriers from a very young age to prevent them being aloof with strangers and aggressive to other dogs.
- Make sure the yard is properly fenced to prevent them from chasing cats, squirrels, bikes, and other moving objects out onto the street.
- Give the dog an area where he can dig to his heart’s content. This can also be a way to keep them busy and stimulated by burying toys and letting him dig them up.
- Exercise them both mentally and physically.
Don’ts
- Let them off lead while walking them, with their chase instinct, they are likely to run off after an animal or smell.
- Leave them unattended with young children or toddlers, they have been known to defend himself against unwanted pulling and prodding.
- Leave them in the back yard, they are indoor dogs and need human companionship
Reference
http://www.petsplace.co.za/scottish_terrier.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scottish_Terrier
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/scottishterrier.htm
http://www.akc.org/breeds/scottish_terrier/index.cfm
http://www.justdogbreeds.com/scottish-terrier.html
http://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/scottish-terrier