The Scottish Terrier is a breed that has documentation that shows it thriving in the 1800s. Researchers do not have definitive proof as to the Scottish Terrier’s origin. Part of the problem is that any Terrier dog that is from Scotland is labeled a “Scottish Terrier”. It also doesn’t help that the recognized breed of Terrier, the Skye Terrier is what is recognized as the Scottish Terrier.These dogs were not just pampered little dogs, they were the most hard working hunting dogs anywhere.
As if possessed, these dogs would seek their prey in any weather condition or terrain. For some time they were called, “Arberdeen Terriers” because they were popular with the people of the Aberdeen area. Once again, this became a source of turmoil so that there were actually people that protested the various names of this breed of dog. So finally there was a detailed description that was handed down on what an actual and authentic Scottish Terrier should look like in 1880. This was the first time that there was an actual breed standard for the Scottish Terrier.
The Scottish Terrier made their first appearance in 1883. During the years of the WWII, the popularity of the Scottish Terrier soared at break neck speed. President Franklin Roosevelt had a Scottish Terrier, his beloved Fala. “Scotties” as they are affectionately called, are hardy dogs with a “tough-guy” personality. The Scottish Terrier didn’t get the nickname “die hard” for nothing. They are smart, curious, and ready for anything!
The Scottish Terrier is not easily intimidated and is not one to be bullied, despite size. They are fearless and can be quite aggressive except when it comes to its family! The family of a Scottish Terrier can expect a dog that is loyal and protective. The Scottish Terrier even though he can be aggressive is still a gentle dog that thrives on the love of his or her family! They have a “heads up, tails up” attitude that is seen in their characteristic gait. Their Gait is not the square trot or walk desirable in the long-legged breeds.
The forelegs do not move in exact parallel planes; rather, in reaching out, the forelegs incline slightly inward because of the deep broad fore chest. Movement should be free, agile and coordinated with powerful drive from the rear and good reach in front. The action of the rear legs should be square and true and, at the trot, both the hocks and stifles should be flexed with a vigorous motion. When the dog is in motion, the back should remain firm and level.
Scottish Terriers tend to weigh in healthy between 21-22 lbs. Besides their personaity and Gait, another characteristic of the Scottish Terrier is their trademark coat. The coat is hard, wirey, weather resistant outer coat while having a soft and silky undercoat. Grooming a Scottish Terrier requires brushing every day and getting their characteristic cut. The coat is typically trimmed and blended, with a longer coat on the beard, eyebrows, legs and lower body — traditionally shaggy-to-the-ground. The head, ears, tail and back are traditionally trimmed short This dog breed MUST have plenty of activity and stimulation in its daily life. Long walks, jogs, playtime, and mental stimulation are just necessities for a healthy and happy life.
They thrive on adventures and gusto while playing outdoors. Other than bringing the Scottish Terrier in at night to sleep with the family, this breed is fully capable of living outdoors in cold or hot weather climates. Given proper veterinarian care, a fully active schedule of both physical and mental stimulation and a healthy vitamin enriched diet can live between 11-13 years. These little dogs are not only great as family pets but still take center stage at dog shows everywhere. There are a few major health issues that present themselves with the Scottish Terrier and those are: CMO and vWD. Not so major health related issues with this particular breed are: patellar luxation, Scotty cramp, and cerebellar abiotrophy.
Posted under Dog Breeds
This post was written by admin on March 27, 2009
