Scottish Terrier
Quick Summary
Independent and spirited terrier ideal for experienced owners seeking a loyal, protective companion. Requires dedication to grooming and training.
Contents
Weight Range
18-22 lbs
♂ Male: 19-22 lbs
♀ Female: 18-21 lbs
Height Range
25-25 inches
♂ Male: 10-10"
♀ Female: 10-10"
Life Expectancy
12-12 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #52
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Terrier Group
Originally bred for Developed in the Scottish Highlands during the 1700s, these tenacious terriers excelled at hunting badgers, foxes, and other burrowing prey in challenging terrain
Popularity
#57
Moderately popular breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 10"-10" |
| Female Height | 10"-10" |
| Male Weight | 19-22 lbs |
| Female Weight | 18-21 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 2/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($800-$2000), supplies, and medical expenses. Monthly costs cover quality food, grooming, and routine veterinary care. Emergency funds advised for health issues.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Scottish Terriers display independent, spirited personalities with a dignified demeanor. They combine intelligence with stubbornness, requiring patient training. While devoted to family, they maintain a self-reliant nature.
Social Needs
Moderate social requirements with strong bonds to family members. Can be reserved with strangers and other dogs. Tolerates alone time well when properly trained and exercised.
Breed Overview
Scottish Terriers showcase a distinctive silhouette with their short legs, compact body, and characteristic beard and eyebrows. Their wiry double coat comes in black, wheaten, or brindle. Standing proudly with an alert expression and dignified bearing, these sturdy terriers possess a bold, confident personality wrapped in a small but muscular frame.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Loyal and protective
- ✓ Low shedding
- ✓ Good watchdog
- ✓ Adaptable to various living spaces
Cons
- ✗ Stubborn streak
- ✗ High grooming needs
- ✗ Can be territorial
- ✗ Strong prey drive
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Confident, Independent, Spirited |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Independent |
| Grooming Needs | 2-3 Times a Week Brushing |
| Shedding | Occasional |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Scottish Terriers require 45-60 minutes of daily exercise, including brisk walks and supervised play sessions. Moderate intensity activities should be balanced with mental stimulation through games and training exercises.
Diet & Nutrition
Feed 1-1.5 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Consider breed-specific formulas that support bone health and maintain healthy weight. Monitor portions to prevent obesity.
Feed 1-1.5 cups of premium dry dog food daily, divided into two meals. Choose foods formulated for small, active breeds. Monitor weight closely as breed can be prone to obesity.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Well-suited to both apartments and houses with secure yards. These adaptable dogs need minimal space but require a fenced area due to their strong prey drive.
Requires minimal indoor space but benefits from a secure outdoor area. Adapts well to apartment living when exercise needs are met. Fencing is essential due to hunting instincts.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Highland hunters developed these brave terriers in Scotland, breeding them for their exceptional ability to pursue prey underground. Their fearless nature and strong digging instincts made them invaluable working dogs.
Historical Purpose
Developed in the Scottish Highlands during the 1700s, these tenacious terriers excelled at hunting badgers, foxes, and other burrowing prey in challenging terrain.
Fun Fact
President Franklin D. Roosevelt's beloved Scottie, Fala, became one of the most famous presidential pets.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular professional grooming needed. Strong prey drive requires secure fencing. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.