Scottish Terrier: Your Complete Guide

The Scottish terrier, with its wiry coat and curious expression, is a small but feisty breed from the rugged highlands of Scotland. These terriers were originally bred to hunt foxes, badgers, and other vermin, but beyond their hunting prowess, Scotties today have become known as beloved pets that are loyal, smart, watchful, and, of course, very stubborn.

If you’re considering welcoming a Scottie into your life, you might have questions about their temperament, exercise needs, and trainability. 

In this article, we’re going to look at everything you need to know about this breed–their history, size, grooming requirements, potential health concerns, and lots more. We’ll also discuss what kind of person makes a perfect match for a Scottish terrier, so read on to decide if this furry friend is the right fit for you.

Quick Look at the Scottish Terrier

Below is a quick glance at the Scottish terrier in terms of their physical characteristics, lifespan, temperament, and grooming needs. 

Weight/Height	18-22 pounds, 11-13 inches
Coat Type	Double coat, wiry, medium-length
Grooming Needs
Shedding
Temperament	Loving, brave, and independent
Good With Kids
Good With Other Animals
Intelligence
Easy to Train
Energy Level
Barking Habits
Lifespan	12-15 years

What Is the History of Scottish Terriers?

The Scottish Terrier, affectionately known as the Scottie, hails from the highlands of Scotland. It’s not precisely known where exactly they originated, but it’s commonly believed that they share ancestry with the West Highland White terrier. 

By the 1700s, Scottish Terriers were also referred to as Aberdeen Terriers, named after the Scottish town of Aberdeen.

Bred with a fearless spirit and a compact build for navigating burrows, Scotties hunted foxes, badgers, and pesky rabbits with gusto. In fact, the 4th Earl of Dumbarton even nicknamed his Scottish terriers “Diehards.” 

What Do Scottish Terriers Look Like?

Scottish terriers have an exquisite coat that comes in black, fawn, or brindle. The bushy beard, eyebrows, and legs, along with their alert expression with erect ears and a proudly held tail, are the standout parts of this breed. 

While black is a classic choice, fawn and brindle Scotties come in a surprising range of shades, from light fawn to a rich reddish tone and brindle with hints of red or silver.

What Size Is a Scottish Terrier?

The Scottish terrier is a compact pup. They typically stand around 11-13 inches tall at the shoulder. Weight can vary slightly between genders, with males averaging 19-22 pounds and females 18-21 pounds.

What Is a Scottish Terrier’s Coat Type and Length?

The Scottish terrier has a short, dense, and soft undercoat for warmth and a hard, wiry outer coat that’s weather-resistant. This double coat is exquisite for many reasons, one of which is the outer coat that has a unique length variation – it’s short and smooth on the head but longer and bushier on the legs, beard, and underside. This is also what gives them that characteristic Scottie silhouette.

What Is a Scottish Terrier’s Temperament? 

The Scottish terrier packs a big personality in a small package. Independent and confident, they have a playful streak alongside a stubborn side. If you have toddlers, expect this dog to fit right in with them. 

They’re also known for being alert and having the trademark terrier tenacity, which results in a rather feisty dog. Yet, beneath all its fanciness lies the most loyal and affectionate dog you’ll see.

Are Scottish Terriers Good With Kids?

There tends to be some variation in the temperament of each Scottie, but, generally speaking, these dogs get along better with older children who can treat them with the respect they need and deserve. 

Unlike some breeds known for endless patience, Scotties have a strong independent streak and might not appreciate the roughhousing or constant grabbing that comes with being around toddlers. 

They’re feisty, too, and accidental nips or growls are a possibility in chaotic situations. If a playful five-year-old tries to hug a Scottie too tightly, the Scottie might be startled by the sudden squeeze and let out a warning growl. 

In this case, it’s important to remember that the dog isn’t displaying aggressive behavior, but instead communicating their discomfort.

Are Scottish Terriers Good With Other Animals?

Getting a Scottie to accept another dog in its territory is difficult. These dogs are known to exhibit some aggression towards other dogs due to their territorial and dominant nature. This can inevitably lead to clashes, especially with same-sex canines. 

Early socialization and training will be needed to increase the chances of successful introductions. If raised together from puppyhood, Scotties can absolutely love any canines that are in the same home.

The verdict on Scotties and cats is a cautious “maybe.” Cats aren’t too far off from the foxes these dogs used to hunt, and their strong prey drive can make them see cats as targets, too. When introduced as kittens and pups, the two will definitely get along, but make sure you’re supervising their interactions if both animals are adults.

Scottish terriers were bred to hunt small creatures, and that instinct remains strong in the breed today. Living with hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, or other small animals is simply not a good idea. These prey animals will live in constant fear, and the Scottie could become frustrated by the barrier separating them. We recommend avoiding this combination altogether.

When going for a walk where the dog might see wild animals, be prepared for a chase. Scotties retain a strong desire to pursue anything that moves quickly, be it a squirrel in the park or a bird outside the window. 

Their terrier heritage makes them natural hunters, and keeping them leashed during walks in areas with potential prey is a must-do. We recommend a securely fenced yard to prevent escapes in pursuit of a furry friend.

Are Scottish Terriers Aggressive?

If the previous sections have made these dogs sound like an aggressive breed, they’re not. They simply have an independent spirit and a terrier personality that can manifest in ways that might be misinterpreted. 

They can be territorial and might growl or snap if feeling threatened or stressed, especially around unfamiliar people or pets, but so can almost every other breed. With training and socialization, you can also teach the dog what the ground rules are and prevent resource guarding.

Do Scottish Terriers Bark?

Scottish terriers aren’t excessive barkers. Unlike other terrier breeds, they tend to bark for a reason, like when they have to notify you of something out of the ordinary. Their bark itself is surprisingly loud for their size, though – a deep, throaty sound that can be quite startling if you’re not expecting it. 

While they won’t bark incessantly, they might vocalize if they’re bored, lonely, or seeking attention. So, although they’re not the quietest dogs, their purposeful barking can be manageable in an apartment setting as long as you can provide them with enough mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom-induced destructive behavior.

Are Scottish Terriers Affectionate?

Scottish terriers are affectionate on their own terms. Though small enough to be a lap dog, your Scottie might not really want to be one. Still, they do enjoy spending time with their loved ones and will happily shower them with affection in their own way–with excited greetings, gentle play, and following them around. 

They still retain some of their terrier aloofness, though, so strangers won’t be getting the same affection right away.

Are Scottish Terriers Intelligent?

Scottish terriers don’t make the top 10 smartest breed list, but they’re still known for being sharp. These dogs are quick learners who do quite well at problem-solving and can even be quite mischievous if not given enough mental stimulation. They have a lot of potential in training too.

Are Scottish Terriers Energetic?

Scottish terriers, despite their short legs, have a surprising amount of stamina packed into their small bodies. While they don’t require marathons, they’ll still need daily walks, around 30-45 minutes, and playtime to burn off their energy and not get bored. 

They’ll happily play games of fetch or chase in a securely fenced yard, but be mindful of their short legs–avoid exercises that involve excessive jumping or sprinting. We recommend short bursts of exercise throughout the day.

Are Scottish Terriers Easy to Train?

Unfortunately not. While Scottish terriers are intelligent and quick learners, they just don’t really want to be trained. They’re independent, so they choose what they want or don’t want to do. This makes training a challenge since they might understand a command perfectly but choose not to obey if they don’t see the point. 

With that in mind, patience, consistency, and, most importantly, positive reinforcement training are key. That means no harsh corrections–Scotties are sensitive and will rebel against forceful methods. They can learn complex tricks with the right motivation (think yummy treats!), but their stubborn side will make them disinterested in repetitive drills. 

If you can get them to obey, though, their intelligence and agility really shine in activities that put their minds and bodies to work. They can do particularly well in agility training with its focus on problem-solving and quick turns, but make sure to provide the exercises in short bursts.

Are Scottish Terriers Good Watchdogs?

Scottish terriers make great watchdogs. Their alert nature and sharp senses keep them attuned to their surroundings, and they are fiercely protective of their family. If anything suspicious happens, they’ll let you know with their loud, throaty bark. 

Despite being small dogs, they’re also really brave and will confront any perceived threats.

Are Scottish Terriers Good Service Dogs?

Service dogs need to be highly trainable, which Scottish terriers are not. This is generally why they aren’t considered ideal candidates for traditional service dog work. As independent dogs that also have a strong prey drive, training for the focus and obedience needed in service dog roles is quite the challenge for them.

However, their temperament can make them good for some emotional support or therapy dog work. Their loyalty and affectionate nature can help people who are struggling with anxiety or loneliness feel more comforted and loved. 

They can also be a source of motivation and a reason to participate in social activities. Plus, emotional support animal (ESA) roles don’t require the same level of training that service work needs, so Scotties can do just fine as ESAs.

How to Care for a Scottish Terrier?

Caring for a Scottish terrier is mostly about meeting their needs for exercise (daily walks and playtime), mental stimulation (training and games), and grooming (regular brushing and professional stripping/clipping). 

Apart from that, you’ll want to consider positive reinforcement training to manage their independent streak and socialization so they don’t bark at every stranger they see.

Do You Need to Groom a Scottish Terrier?

Scottish terriers do need regular grooming, but the frequency and method depend on your preference. Brushing is needed weekly to prevent matting, regardless of whether you hand-strip or clip their coat. Hand-stripping, which removes dead hair to maintain the wiry texture, is recommended every 2-3 months but requires a professional groomer. 

Clipping is an alternative, with professional trims needed every 4-6 weeks. This keeps the coat shorter and softer but might change the Scottie’s signature look. If you want to preserve their look, professional grooming is the only option.

Do Scottish Terriers Shed?

Scottish terriers are famous for being low-shedders, which earns them the label of being hypoallergenic. Unlike breeds that constantly shed fur, Scotties’ hair grows continuously with minimal shedding. 

However, this doesn’t mean they are completely maintenance-free. Their dead undercoat can still accumulate and form mats if not brushed regularly.

What Health Problems Do Scottish Terriers Have?

Scottish terriers are generally a healthy breed, but like other healthy breeds, they are prone to some health problems. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common ones and how you can prevent them:

Scotty Cramp: This ailment is a genetic disorder affecting the neurotransmitters that control muscles. Episodes resemble seizures, with symptoms like leg hyperextension, spasms, and a stiff, goose-stepping gait. It typically affects young Scotties.

Unfortunately, there’s no cure, and prevention is only possible through genetic screening from the breeder. However, veterinarians can manage symptoms with medication and muscle relaxants.

Craniomandibular Osteopathy (CMO): This is a developmental disease affecting the jaw bones. It disrupts normal jaw growth, causing pain, misalignment, and difficulty eating. Signs include facial asymmetry, trouble closing the mouth, and reluctance to chew.

Early diagnosis and treatment are extremely important, often involving surgery to correct jaw abnormalities. Similar to the Scottie cramp, CMO is genetic and preventable through responsible breeding.

Luxating Patella: This common issue in small dogs occurs when the kneecap (patella) pops out of its socket. While sometimes causing no problems, it can lead to lameness and pain. Treatment options vary depending on the severity, ranging from conservative management to surgery. Generally, try to maintain a healthy weight and avoid strenuous activities to help prevent luxating patella.

Allergies: Skin allergies are a common problem with Scotties. They can manifest as itchy, red skin and excessive licking or chewing. Environmental allergies (pollen, dust mites) and food allergies can be culprits–finding the allergen and making dietary changes or allergy medication can manage symptoms.

Regular vet checkups and discussing any signs of skin irritation are also important for early diagnosis and treatment.

How Long Do Scottish Terriers Live?

Scottish Terriers have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. How you care for your dog and any genetic issues or health issues they develop throughout their lifetime can influence your dog’s lifespan.

What Should a Scottish Terrier Eat?

Scottish terriers, despite their feistiness, don’t have enormous appetites. The exact amount they should eat depends on their age, health conditions, and activity. Generally, they’ll do well on a high-quality kibble that is made specifically for small dogs since these comprise a balanced diet with all the nutrients they need. 

If you’re confused about specific dietary needs, we recommend consulting your veterinarian about your Scottie to get personalized recommendations. 

If you’re looking into a raw diet, which has been gaining popularity lately, you’ll need to go through lots of planning and consultation with a vet to ensure it actually meets all your Scottie’s nutritional needs. 

Scotties are prone to weight gain, too, so be mindful of overfeeding. Excessive weight in this breed can worsen joint problems like luxating patella. Keep an eye on the weight and adjust their portions as needed.

Is a Scottish Terrier the Right Dog for Me?

The Scottish terrier’s ideal person is someone who appreciates a loyal and intelligent dog with a hint of independence. If you’re an active person who loves daily walks and playtime, you’ll find a willing partner in the Scottie. 

However, you’ll have to remember that this breed needs a lot of patience and understanding from its owners, as it is quite the stubborn canine when it comes to training. 

If you live in an apartment, this small breed is actually a pretty good choice. As long as you can provide the mental and physical stimulation it needs to prevent boredom barking. Above all, a Scottie will do great in a home that really values their watchfulness and affection, however they choose to give it.