Scottish Terrier breed guide: Care, training, and fun facts
Breed guide overview
About Scottish Terriers
Temperament
Exercise
Grooming
Training
Diet
Health
About the Scottish Terrier breed
The Scottish Terrier, affectionately known as the "Scottie," is a small yet sturdy breed with a rich heritage originating in Scotland. Bred to hunt and dig out vermin, these dogs are known for their resilience, independence, and iconic appearance.
Scottish Terriers are easily recognisable by their long, wiry coats, distinctive bushy eyebrows, and beard, which give them a dignified and somewhat serious expression. Their unique look is complemented by their short legs and strong, compact build, making them both elegant and rugged.
Historically, Scottish Terriers gained widespread fame as a favourite breed of American President Franklin D. Roosevelt. His beloved Scottie, named Fala, became a national icon and even earned a statue at the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Weight, height & life expectancy
These sturdy little dogs typically stand at a height of 25–28 cm and weigh between 8–10 kg. With proper care and attention, they enjoy a life expectancy of around 11–13 years.
Scottish Terriers are celebrated for their independence, loyalty, and charm, making them an excellent choice for owners who appreciate a breed with both history and character.
What is the Temperament of Scottish Terriers Like?
The Scottish Terrier, or "Scottie," is renowned for its independent and self-assured nature. These spirited dogs have a feisty and confident personality that often defies their small stature. Bold and determined, Scotties carry themselves with a sense of dignity and pride that is uniquely their own.
Scottish Terriers are deeply loyal and devoted to their families, forming strong bonds with their loved ones. However, they can be naturally reserved and sometimes aloof with strangers. This trait reflects their heritage as solitary hunters, where independence and alertness were essential.
To ensure a well-rounded and sociable adult dog, early socialisation is key. Introducing your Scottie to a variety of people, animals, and environments during puppyhood can help them become more comfortable in new situations. This will reduce their wariness of strangers and enhance their adaptability.
While their bold and self-reliant nature may require patient training, Scottish Terriers reward their owners with unwavering loyalty, making them cherished companions for those who appreciate their spirited temperament.
Our Scottish Terrier Community
"Monty is a lovable Scottie dog who enjoys meeting other dogs, children and adults. He loves a good bone and a comfy lap for a nap. He even watches tv and can recognise other animals!"
Monty's owner, Natasha from Bungay
"Angus loves walks through the woods to investigate but is just as happy on roads and at the Park. He can be restless through the day so moves to find the best chill spot which is often a window by the street so he can keep one eye on passers by."
Angus' owner, Lyn from Bristol
How Much Exercise Do Scottish Terriers Need?
The Scottish Terrier has low to moderate exercise needs, requiring around 30–45 minutes of daily activity to stay healthy and happy. Their exercise routine can include brisk walks, playtime in a securely fenced yard, and engaging interactive games. While they may not have the boundless energy of some breeds, Scotties benefit greatly from regular activity that keeps them physically fit and mentally stimulated.
Scottish Terriers are intelligent dogs that thrive on mental challenges. Incorporating problem-solving activities and puzzle toys into their daily routine helps to keep their sharp minds engaged and prevents boredom. A balanced combination of physical exercise and mental stimulation is essential for their overall well-being.
For puppies, exercise requirements differ significantly from adult dogs. Short, supervised play sessions multiple times a day allow them to explore their surroundings and interact with their environment without overexertion. It’s important to avoid excessive exercise, as their growing bones and joints are still developing. Gentle activities appropriate for their age and size are ideal, and your vet can provide tailored advice to meet your puppy’s specific needs.
With a well-structured exercise plan that balances physical activity and mental enrichment, Scottish Terriers can lead a happy, fulfilled, and energetic life.
Do Scottish Terriers Need a Lot of Grooming?
The Scottish Terrier has a dense and wiry double coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its distinctive appearance and good health. Their coat consists of a harsh, weather-resistant outer layer and a softer undercoat, both of which need attention to stay in optimal condition.
To keep their coat tidy and mat-free, brushing at least two to three times a week is essential. This helps remove loose hair, prevent tangles, and maintain the coat's sleek look. Special attention should be given to their facial hair, including their iconic beard and eyebrows, which may require more frequent cleaning and trimming to stay neat and hygienic.
For many owners, a visit to a professional groomer every six to eight weeks is a practical way to keep their Scottie looking their best. Groomers can provide essential services such as hand-stripping or clipping, which help maintain the coat's texture and shape.
Additionally, dental hygiene is important for Scottish Terriers. Regular tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste—ideally twice daily, or as often as possible—helps prevent plaque buildup and promotes overall health.
With consistent grooming and occasional professional care, Scottish Terriers can maintain their elegant and dignified appearance, embodying the charm they are known for.
Are Scottish Terriers Easy to Train?
The Scottish Terrier is an intelligent breed with a strong will, which can make training both rewarding and challenging. Known for their independent thinking, Scotties are quick to learn but may occasionally test boundaries, reflecting their spirited nature.
Training a Scottish Terrier requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Using techniques such as treats, praise, and play can motivate them and encourage good behaviour. Harsh training methods should be avoided, as they may lead to resistance or frustration. Instead, keeping sessions short, engaging, and rewarding will help maintain their interest and cooperation.
Early socialisation is particularly important for Scotties. Introducing them to different people, environments, and experiences during puppyhood can help reduce wariness and ensure they grow into confident, well-rounded adults. Basic obedience training is also essential to establish good manners and improve communication between owner and dog.
While their independent streak may require some extra effort, Scottish Terriers are highly capable learners. With the right approach, they can be trained effectively and become loyal, well-behaved companions.
What Do Scottish Terriers Eat?
The Scottish Terrier thrives on a balanced, high-quality diet tailored to their age, size, and activity level. Providing the right nutrition helps support their overall health and ensures they maintain a healthy weight throughout their life.
For puppies, a specially formulated puppy food is essential to meet their unique nutritional needs during growth and development. Puppies should be fed 3–4 times a day until they are around 6 months old, at which point their meals can be reduced to twice daily. Once they mature, typically between 12–18 months, they can transition to adult dog food designed for small or medium breeds.
Adult Scotties should be fed in measured portions to avoid overeating, as they can be prone to weight gain. Monitoring their weight and adjusting their food intake as needed is crucial to prevent obesity, which can lead to other health problems. Treats should only be given in moderation and should count as part of their daily calorie allowance.
Every Scottish Terrier is unique, and factors such as metabolism, activity level, and overall health can influence their dietary needs. Regular vet consultations can help determine the best feeding routine and food choice for your individual Scottie, ensuring they stay happy, healthy, and full of energy.
Are Scottish Terriers Healthy?
The Scottish Terrier is generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be predisposed to certain health conditions. Being aware of these potential issues can help owners provide the best care for their Scottie and catch any problems early with regular vet check-ups.
Common Health Concerns in Scottish Terriers:
- Bleeding Disorders:
- Von Willebrand’s Disease: A condition affecting platelet function in the bloodstream, leading to difficulty clotting and excessive bleeding.
- Bones and Joints:
- Luxating Patella: Occurs when the kneecap shifts out of its normal position, causing pain and mobility issues.
- Scottie Cramp: A breed-specific condition that causes muscle stiffness and temporary coordination problems, often triggered by excitement or stress.
- Ears:
- Deafness: Scottish Terriers can experience partial or complete hearing loss, which may be congenital or develop later in life.
- Eyes:
- Cataracts: A common cause of blindness resulting from clouding of the eye’s lens.
- Primary Lens Luxation (PLL): A condition where the lens shifts from its normal position, leading to glaucoma and inflammation.
- Hormonal Conditions:
- Cushing’s Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism): Caused by the overproduction of steroid hormones by the adrenal glands, leading to symptoms like increased thirst, weight gain, and hair loss.
- Neurological Issues:
- Cerebellar Abiotrophy: A degenerative condition affecting the cerebellum in the brain, which impacts movement and coordination.
- Skin Conditions:
- Atopy: An overreaction of the immune system to allergens, resulting in itchy, irritated skin.
This list is not exhaustive, and not all Scottish Terriers will experience these conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to monitor their health and address any concerns promptly. If you're considering adding a Scottish Terrier to your family or have questions about their specific needs, your vet can provide expert guidance.
With proper care, attention, and preventative measures, Scottish Terriers can enjoy long, happy, and healthy lives.
Vet top tip
Scottish Terriers are prone to breed-specific conditions like Scottie Cramp and Primary Lens Luxation, so regular vet check-ups are essential to catch early signs of health issues. To keep your Scottie in top shape, focus on maintaining a healthy weight, as excess weight can exacerbate joint problems like luxating patella. Also, keep an eye on their skin and coat for signs of irritation or atopy, and brush their teeth regularly to prevent dental issues common in smaller breeds. A balanced diet, routine exercise, and early detection of any health concerns will help your Scottie live a long and happy life.
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