Scottish Terrier
Summary
The Scottish Terrier — affectionately called "Scottie" — is one of the most recognizable canine silhouettes in the world: low, compact, with a long head and a characteristic beard. Developed in the Scottish Highlands to hunt badger, fox, and rodents in rocky terrain, the Scottie is today a prestigious companion breed, associated with American presidents, the Monopoly board game, and a haughty, unmistakable character.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Small
- Height (male)
- 24–26 cm
- Height (female)
- 24–26 cm
- Weight (male)
- 8.5–10 kg
- Weight (female)
- 8–9.5 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 11–13 years
- Coat
- hard, dense, and rough outer coat; soft and dense undercoat
- Common Colors
- black, wheaten, brindle
Temperament & Personality
The Scottie is often described as "proud, independent, and completely itself." It has a very distinct character: it is courageous, determined, very loyal to its owner (usually a "one-man dog"), but reserved and even suspicious with strangers. It is not an exuberant dog or one that seeks attention from everyone — it has an almost aristocratic dignity. It works well with older children; with younger ones it can be impatient.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Moderate
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 45 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- High
- Shedding
- Minimal
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 4–6 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Cancer (mast cell tumors, hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma)
- Cerebellar abiotrophy
- Craniomandibular osteopathy
- Hepatic shunt
- Hypothyroidism
- Scottie Cramp (hereditary muscular epilepsy)
- Von Willebrand's disease
- Recommended Health Tests
- Cancer screening in senior animals
- Liver evaluation
- Von Willebrand genetic test
Compatibility
- For First-Time Owners
- Not recommended
