Scottish Terrier

Overview of Scottish Terriers

Scottish Terriers have been shown to be at 19-fold increased risk of transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder compared with mixed breeds, the cause of which is not known but perhaps represents genetic predisposition through differences in metabolic and detoxification pathways [220].

Scottish Terriers are prone to this uncommon condition, caused by the production of antibodies against acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme responsible for normal communication between the nervous system and muscle tissues.

A Scottish terrier is first and foremost a true terrier which means he has a mind of his own and likes his independence.  That’s not to say he prefers to be alone, but thrives on the company of his family. 

Scottish Terrier temperament, personality, training, behavior, pros and cons, advice, and information, by Michele Welton, Dog Trainer, Behavioral Consultant, Author of 15 Dog Books

Scottish Terrier and Basset Hound mixes are affectionate yet independent, outgoing yet reserved around strangers, and above all else, excellent with families and children. 

Scottish terriers peaked in popularity during the 1930s and ‘40s, and perhaps the most famous of all their ranks was Fala, President Roosevelt’s dog during World War II.

Scottish Terriers shed a reasonable amount of hair year-round, and require regular brushing several times per week to keep the dense coat free from dead hair and debris.

The Scottish Terrier is one of the oldest Highland Terrier breeds, and beginning in the 19th century was bred to hunt and kill foxes, rabbits, badgers, rats and otters.

Scottish terriers exhibit an independent streak that served them well in the breed’s early days when they were roaming the Highlands tracking down badgers.

The Scottish Terrier is not ideal for use as a sporting dog, but his high prey drive and love of the dirt may make him suitable for Earthdog training.

Allergies

The reason these guys are hypoallergenic is because Scottish Terriers barely shed (if at all) and they don’t drool much either.Yes!

Barking

Right behind German shepherds and Rottweilers, the Scottie ranks third in alarm barking, so if this suits your need and lifestyle, the Scottish terrier will make an unwanted visitor think twice.Scottish terriers are known for their watchdog-type tendencies.While they may not be intimidating in appearance, the Scottie will alert the owner of intruders, and oftentimes passersby.

Breed

Most commonly due to a growth called a transitional cell carcinoma, this is a form of cancer which may be up to 20 times more common in Scottish Terriers than in other breeds, with females affected twice as often as males.Signs include difficulty in urination and passing blood in urine.Usually seen in older dogs.

Cancer

Cancers are strongly influenced by genetics, and so it is not surprising to find various types of cancer among different dog breeds.For example, bone cancer, or osteosarcoma, is considerably more frequent among large and giant breeds of dogs, such as the Irish Wolfhound, Great Dane, Rottweiler, Labrador and Golden Retriever, Greyhound, and Saint Bernard, because their bones are stressed by carrying so much weight.German Shepherd Dogs and Chow Chows are predisposed to gastric cancer, while Scottish Terriers are 18 times more likely to develop bladder cancer than are other breeds.High rates of malignant blood vessel tumors are seen among Golden Retrievers, which are also prone to leukemia and brain tumors.

Coat

Professional grooming is required approximately every three months to keep the classic shape to the clipped hair.

Energy

The Scottish terrier benefits from at least two walks a day to stimulate him mentally and physically.The Scottish terrier was bred for hunting, and physically designed to dig, so finding positive outlets to this ample energy is key to coexisting peacefully with this breed.

Genetic Predispositions

At the end of the booklet, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Diehard looking and feeling her best.This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Scottish Terriers.This information helps you and us together plan for your pet’s unique medical needs.You will know what to watch for, and we will all feel better knowing that we’re taking the best possible care of your pal.

Grooming

Many believe that the Scottish Terrier is easy to maintain, but in reality the breed needs a great deal of grooming.Set up a grooming table to bring the dog up to your level if that makes it easier for you.The coat needs to be groomed weekly for a pet and daily for a show dog.

Health

You can minimize serious health concerns in a Scottish Terrier by purchasing him from a reputable breeder who engages in responsible breeding practices, and through screening for common diseases and conditions.

Infections

Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, herage, and other factors.Scottish Terriers are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections—the same ones that all dogs can get—such as parvo, rabies, and distemper.

Life expectancy

The Scottie stands 10 inches tall at the shoulder, and weighs a mere 18-22 pounds.The Scottish terrier has a life expectancy of approximately 11-13 years, which can be effected by breeding practices, diet, and exercise.

Obesity

Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk.It is a serious disease that may causeor worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain and heart disease.Obesity can be a significant health problem in Scottish Terriers.She’ll feel better, and so will you!Though it’s tempting to give your pal food when she looks at you with those soulful eyes, you can “love her to death” with leftover people food and doggie treats.

Parasites

Mite infestations in the paws and around the face can occur in Scottish Terriers and several other breeds as a result of an inherited immune deficiency in the response to Demodex parasites.

Personality

Social

It is extremely important that the young Scottish terrier be socialized with dogs, people, and animals of all sizes, and rewarded for positive interactions.The Scottish terrier is known for being aloof with strangers, and protective when facing other dogs, so early socialization and introductions are necessary to prevent behavioral issues when the dog ages.

Temperament

These little dogs, often called “Scotties,” are as brave as
they are cute – but there is more to their personality than meets the eye.When you think of the Scottish Terrier
temperament, you may remember the dapper little Jock and his undying loyalty
for his friend Lady in the Disney film Lady
and the Tramp.

Training

House training of Scottish Terrier puppies is usually not such a challenge, and may be aided by the use of crate training, as the breed takes to its own defined space within the house very readily.On the same note, owners must ensure their Scottie learns to tolerate handling of their mouths, ears, and paws as puppies, otherwise routine hygiene and veterinary care can be difficult to implement in the breed.Socialisation training is of the greatest importance for the breed from a young age, as they need to be introduced to other people and dogs outside of their family on a regular basis to overcome any tendency to aggression or resentment of handling.

Are Scottish Terriers easy to train?

No.Scottish Terriers are very difficult to train.You have to start training them when they’re puppies, and they need a lot of socialization.

Are Scottish Terriers friendly?

No.Scotties are known to pick fights with other dogs, and they can be too rambunctious for little kids.They’re aloof with strangers because they treat every new human with a healthy amount of suspicion.They’re cat terrorizers, and they would love to bring you back some small dead animal if they ever get the chance.Have a rat infestation? Get a Scottish Terrier.(No, I’m kidding, don’t do that.

Are Scottish Terriers good for apartments?

Yes.Their small size means that apartment complexes that allow dogs will accept them.They also adjust well to living in smaller spaces, so long as you exercise them properly and give them mental stimulation.They don’t really shed, so that helps keep your apartment clean, and they’re not really yappy, so your neighbors won’t hate you.

Are Scottish Terriers hypoallergenic?

Yes! The reason these guys are hypoallergenic is because Scottish Terriers barely shed (if at all) and they don’t drool much either.Their beards can get gross though.Usually, people that have dog allergies are actually allergic to drool or dander, so Scottish Terriers are less likely to cause flare-ups.That being said, everyone is different, so you need to meet the breed in person.Even then, individual dogs can be different too.Lastly, you’ve got to make sure to keep up with a Scottish Terrier’s grooming or they might start to bother your allergies.If you’re allergic to Scottish Terriers, you might consider checking out Schnauzers instead.

Are Scottish Terriers intelligent?

Yes! But once you have one, you’ll start wishing they weren’t.They use their intelligence to reason out why they don’t have to listen to you, and how there’s nothing you can do about it.

Curious about Scottish Terrier mixes?

As such a recognizable and distinct breed, it’s not surprising several mixes have emerged.Let’s take a look at four of them.

Grooming: Do Scottish Terriers shed?

No, Scottish Terrier shedding is little to none.This means they are a great breed for people with allergies as they are hypoallergenic.

How big does a Scottish Terrier get?

Scottish Terriers don’t stay puppies for long as they reach maturity at between 12 to 14 months.

How do you groom a Scottish Terrier?

Here’s what you’ll need : A soft bristle brush, and a long-toothed comb.Comb your Scotty’s long hair with a long-toothed comb, and brush their short hair with the bristle brush, about twice a week.Once every two months, you’ll want to take them in to get their coat trimmed by a groomer.When you brush their hair, be sure to clean out their ears with a dark cotton ball, and brush their teeth.

How energetic is a Scottish Terrier?

Very! Although, they’re not yappy or goofy.So they’re enthusiastic and eager for exercise and a good walk, but your neighbors won’t hate you for having an endless yappy-dog bark track playing in the background every time you leave the house.

How much do Scottish Terrier puppies cost?

$800 – $3,000.Honestly, you’re really not going to find many (if any) purebred dogs from GOOD breeders that go for less than $800.A good breeder has a lot of overhead, and at that price ($800) they make very little – it’s really a labor of love.Bad breeders will cut all sorts of corners so they can sell puppies for less.Scottish Terrier puppies start costing a lot when they’re bred from dogs that have won awards in dog shows.A show-quality Scottie will cost you somewhere in the ballpark of $2,400.Not all Scottish Terrier puppies born in a litter from award-winning parents will be show quality.

How much do Scottish Terrier puppies cost?

These terriers whelp between one and six puppies per litter.The median price for a Scottish Terrier puppy with papers is $1 125, and the average cost is $800.

How much do Scottish Terrier puppies cost?

The cost to buy a Scottish Terrier varies greatly and depends on many factors such as the breeders’ location, reputation, litter size, lineage of the puppy, breed popularity (supply and demand), training, socialization efforts, breed lines and much more.Review how much Scottish Terrier puppies for sale sell for below.

Is the Scottish Terrier a good dog for kids?

With training.To be honest, Scottish Terriers can be a really fun dog for older kids because they’re durable and enthusiastic.That being said, they’re really powerful dogs – they can pull a kid right off their feet.They’re also rough when they play, and they’ll get an attitude about being pushed, pulled, or otherwise poorly treated.You need to socialize them with a lot of kids when they’re still a puppy, and they’re really not great dogs for kids under the age of 7.

Is the Scottish Terrier right for me?

Probably not! Just kidding.Sort of … What you need to understand about a Scottish Terrier is that they’re the bravest, most loyal maniacs you will ever meet.Scotties will take to you, forsaking all other humans.They don’t consider you a god though – they’re not that revoltingly sappy, hero-worshipping Border Collie your neighbor brags about.Scotties were born to be your boss, and it’s your job to fight for your own equality.Don’t think you’re going swimming with a Scotty.Drop one in the water, and they’ll sink to the bottom like a rock, and then you’ll be the one drenched from head to toe after you’ve had to rescue them.Dog parks aren’t the best place for a Scottish Terrier – they’re always on the look-out for bad guys and have no issues picking fights with other dogs.

Okay so, is that Scottish Terrier a good dog for me, or not?

If you have to ask that question, I’m going to go out on a limb and say that they’re not.Scottish Terriers require a lot of experience with dogs and a good understanding of dog behavior.You also need experience with training and socializing puppies.If you don’t know enough about dogs yet that you’re not really familiar with the Scottie’s terrier personality-type, then you’re definitely not ready for a Scottish Terrier.

Temperament: Do Scottish Terriers make good family pets?

Yes, the Scottish Terrier temperament is fitting for a family.This terrier enjoys companionship, showing gentle affection to children and consideration to seniors.They treat people well who treat them well – mutual respect applies.

What can I expect to pay for a puppy?

Median Price: $1,125.00
Average Price: $800.00
Top Quality: $1,800.00 to $5,500.

What do Scottish Terriers look like?

Short and stocky.They can actually come in a ton of other colors, like white, wheaten, brindle, and grey, but most of the ones you’ll see will be black.They are really low to the ground, and when their coats are cut in the “fancy style” they look like black brooms with a dog face.The face in question has scruffy, bushy eyebrows, a wiry beard, and cute foxy little ears that are stretched out to be extra tall.They have stubby serious looking tails that often stick straight up or curve slightly over their body.

What does a Scottish Terrier look like?

The Scottish Terrier looks like a small hairy Scotsman with a beard and kilt.The dog is solid and compact with short legs and a sturdy build.This gives it the impression of power in a small package.

What kind of health problems do Scottish Terriers have?

You’ll be happy to know the Scottish Terrier lifespan averages at 12 years.But, some of these dogs live to the ripe age of 15 or older.

What’s the difference between a Scottish Terrier and a Schnauzer?

Answer : Size, personality, and origins.

What’s unique about a Scottish Terrier’s coat?

The Scottie has dual layering: a wiry outer coat (topcoat) and a softer, dense undercoat.This weather-resistant coat protects them from bad weather conditions.

Where can I buy a Scottish Terrier?

Regardless of whether you want to buy a puppy from a breeder, or you want to rescue a Scottish Terrier, the best place to start your search is here : https://www.stca.

Who should get a Scottish Terrier?

We’ve mentioned Scotties aren’t low-energy lap dogs.They need owners who will have playtime daily or take them for regular walks.

History of Scottish Terriers

In 1814 Sir Walter Scott wrote about the breed in his famous novel "Guy Mannering." In the book there was a character named Dandie Dinmont, and that is where the breed got its name.

In 1856, “Stonehenge” (the pseudonym of John Henry Walsh), writing in the Manual of British Rural Sports, was still dividing beagles into four varieties: the medium beagle; the dwarf or lapdog beagle; the fox beagle (a smaller, slower version of the Foxhound); and the rough-coated or terrier beagle, which he classified as a cross between any of the other varieties and one of the Scottish terrier breeds.

In 1869 the first two West Highland White Terriers were imported into Melbourne.

In 1875, Scotland records the first showing of this Terrier as a recognized breed.

In 1879 the Scottish Terrier was officially recognised as a separate breed and the first Scottish Terriers were imported into Australia in 1889.

In 1881 the American Spaniel Club was formed and included many types of Spaniels.

In 1904 the first English breed club for the Westie was formed and in 1906 it was recognized by the Kennel Club of England under the name West Highland White Terrier.

in 1908.

In 1916, Colonel Malcolm of Poltalloch said that his father and grandfather both kept them.

In 1936, Scotties were the third most popular dog in the USA; President Roosevelt owned a Scottie called Fala from 1940.

In 1949 Horak successfully created a new breed from these two terriers believing it would make a stronger hunting dog.

In 1949, Horak began a breeding program to create the ideal hunting dog and loyal family companion.

In 1963, the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) granted the breed official recognition.

In 1993, a 7-year-old female Jindo named Baekgu (백구; 白狗; translated as a White Dog), raised by Park Bok-dan (박복단), an 83-year-old woman on Jindo Island, was sold to a new owner in the city of Daejeon which is located about 300 km (180 mi) away from the island.

In 2004, the American Cesky Terrier Fanciers Association formed and was recognized by the AKC, and finally, in mid-2011, the breed was accepted for entry in the AKC stud book, and able to compete in the Terrier group in the United States.

In 2015, Wisconsin became the first state to introduce a bill to make blaze pink a legal hunting color.

In 2019, the Scottish Terrier’s registrations dropped dangerously.

In the 1840s, a standard beagle type was beginning to develop; the distinction between the North Country Beagle and Southern Hound had been lost, but there was still a large variation in size, character, and reliability among the emerging packs.

In the 1850s, Stonehenge recommended a cross between a Beagle and a Scottish Terrier as a retriever.

In the 1870s, a detailed description of the true Scottish Terrier dog breed was released.

In the 1950s, John Paul Scott and John Fuller began a 13-year study of canine behavior.