Scottish Terrier Breed Profile

Description

The Scottish Terrier is a small, compact, short-legged, sturdily-built dog of good bone and substance. His head is long in proportion to his size. He has a hard, wiry, weather-resistant coat and a thick-set, cobby body which is hung between short, heavy legs. These characteristics, joined with his very special keen, piercing, "varminty" expression, and his erect ears and tail are salient features of the breed. The Scottish Terrier's bold, confident, dignified aspect exemplifies power in a small package.

Coloring

Black, wheaten or brindle of any color.

Temperament

The Scottish Terrier is alert and spirited but also stable and steady-going. They are determined, thoughtful dogs who are loving and gentle with people. They exude ruggedness and power, living up to their nickname, the "Diehard."

Origin

The Scottish Terrier has a very long history, and is one of the oldest of the Terriers to originate in the Scottish Highlands. They were bred to hunt vermin such as foxes, badgers, wildcats, weasels, otters, rats, and anything else that could damage the farmerÆs crops or livestock. Scotties were bred to be independent workers, usually far from their owners. The first Scottie hit the shore of the US in 1880s and has become more and more popular as the family companion.

Care Level

Medium