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Scottish Terrier breed Information

Scottish Terriers- Personality, Temperament, and Everything You Need to Know : Ultimate Breed Guide 2020



Scottish Terrier, also known as “Scottie” is a unique dog breed that originated in Scotland. They are famously known for their independent, stubborn, and rugged nature. But that’s not all. They are also intelligent, sensitive, and amazing protectors. They were named after the highland breed “Skye Terrier,” known to be one of the terrier breeds that belonged initially to Scotland. If you want a dog that can become your companion while walking, you will find Scottish Terriers the perfect match for you. Due to their sweet little legs, they cannot run for miles; instead, they would prefer walking peacefully in the park. 


One of the remarkable qualities of Scottish Terriers is their loud and scary bark. If they find a suspicious person, they’d immediately take action and start barking to alert the owner and his family, which is why Scotties are incredible watchdogs. They’ll make sure your family is protected and safe from any harm. 


The resemblance of Scottish Terriers’ characters with that of humans is astonishing. Their confidence, high spirits, and sense of dignity and independence are just like human beings. That’s the reason why Scotties earned the title ‘The Diehard.’ If you are interested to know the in-depth information about Scottish Terriers, keep on reading.

What are the Characteristics of Scottish Terriers? 

  • Adaptability 


Scottish Terriers are known to be people-friendly. They like being around people, especially if it is their own family. They are also good at accepting the changes and moving on with their new owners. If you are a responsible dog owner who’d love them and take care of them, you have nothing to worry about. For adaptability, Scotties has scored 3 out of 5 stars. 


Here is how: 


  1. Apartment Living: Scottish Terriers like living in apartments. Usually, apartments are smaller, which becomes an issue for numerous dogs as they are not used to living in such a little place. Unlike those breeds, Scotties do pretty well inside the apartments. Hence, the apartment living has scored 4 out of 5 stars.


  1. Good for novice owners: Despite their innumerable qualities, they are not a good fit for novice owners. They can be challenging, stubborn, and difficult to train. You should consider getting a Scottish Terrier only if you already have some experience raising a healthy and well-trained dog. Otherwise, you might end up in a frustrated and challenging situation. For novice owners, Scotties scores 2 out of 5 stars. 


  1. Sensitivity: Scottish Terriers are among the highly sensitive breeds. Their score for sensitivity, which is 4 out of 5 stars, implies that the owner, along with other family members, must treat them with extra care and gentleness. Their family should also surround Scotties most of the time. They can sense if the owner’s behavior is aggressive or harsh. Such behavior will only result in mental health problems such as anxiety


  1. Tolerance being alone: Some dogs tend to become anxious if left alone for a while. But Scottish Terriers can tolerate being one. Although the owners should not leave them on their own for a longer period, they can manage to stay without their family for some time. Their tolerance for being alone has secured 3 out of 5 stars


  1. Tolerance of cold weather: Scotties live well under cold weather. You should not be concerned about extra clothes or keep them indoor the entire time. Their tolerance to weather has scored 4 out of 5 marks. 


  1. Tolerates of hot weather: Just like cold weather, Scotties can survive hot weather as well. Their built is strong enough to handle overly heated weather. 


However, for people living in a tropical climate, it is always useful to put some shades on to remain under shelter for as long as they need. Additionally, you should also ensure the access and availability of chilled water for your Scottie before bringing it home. Their tolerance for hot weather has scored 3 out of 5 stars. 

  • All-Around Friendliness 


When it comes to friendliness, Scottish Terriers are one of their kind. They are approachable, affectionate, and amiable with people. They are fond of their family and love spending time with them. 


Generally, due to their friendly behavior, they have scored 4 out of 5 stars in all-around friendliness. 


Here are some reasons behind the score:


  1. Affection to their family: Every dog lover can undoubtedly agree that dogs love people unconditionally. Their endless love, kisses, and cuddles make them one of the best pets to raise. Scottish Terriers are no different. They are among the sweetest breeds who know how to build a strong, loving relationship with their family. For their immense affection to their family, Scotties have scored 5 out of 5 stars. 


  1. Friendliness with children: As far as their stubborn and robust nature is concerned, it is easy to assume that Scottish Terriers are not suitable for families with small kids. However, the case is not that simple. Undoubtedly, they have the characteristics of big dogs with a body of small dogs. They often don’t get along with small children who don’t know how to behave with dogs. They can get annoyed if a child pulls their beard or does anything that annoys them. Hence, they are more suitable for the family of older kids who can be taught the manners of living with a dog. To such children, Scotties are very friendly and kind. Their kid-friendly nature has got them 4 out of 5 stars. 


  1. Friendliness towards Dogs: Scotties can often show aggressiveness to other dogs. By nature, they are a very serious and reserved breed who can become aggressive if not appropriately trained. The key is to start training them to be more social right from their puppyhood. Once they are trained, they won't cause any harm to other dogs and eventually befriend them. Their dog-friendliness has scored 4 out of 5 stars. 


  1. Friendliness to strangers: Just like other dogs, Scotties tend to show an aggressive attitude towards strangers too. It is because they are very protective and defensive. They just want their owners to be safe and sound. Once they are trained and realize that the stranger is not a threat, their attitude will change from aggressive to friendly. That’s why their friendliness to strangers has scored 4 out of 5 stars. 

  • Health and Grooming Needs


Scottish Terriers have a healthy coat that prevents irritation or dryness on their skin. They have bright, shiny eyes that make people fall in love with them at first glance. Scotties are required to be groomed regularly. They have a harsh and rough dual-coated outer layer along with soft undercoats.


The best way to groom them is by hand stripping. Ideally, hand stripping should be started at a young age. But in case you are not doing it, you can try its alternative, which is clipping their coat. Overall, their score for health and grooming needs is 2 out of 5 stars. 


Here is how: 


  1. Shedding: Scotties do not shed much, so you don’t need to worry about the shedding season much. Although they do shed, the amount of shed hair is somewhat lesser than other breeds. So if you want a dog that wouldn’t mess up your house with shed hair, you can count on Scottish Terriers. For the amount of shedding, they've got 2 out of 5 stars. 


  1. Drooling Potential: Another messy habit that numerous breeds have is drooling. They can drop the drool anywhere in the house, including the lounge and dining room, resulting in messed up, dirty furniture, and floor. Luckily, Scottish Terriers do not drool often. For drooling potential, they have scored 1 out of 5 stars. 


  1. Easy grooming: Scotties have a rough coat that needs to be clipped regularly. Due to the long beard, their coats tend to get tangled frequently. To get rid of tangles, you need to brush and comb their coat more often. 


Furthermore, combing and brushing also impacts the health of 

Scotties’ hair. Hence, they are definitely not one of those easy-to-go dog breeds that don’t require much grooming efforts. Their ease in grooming has only got 2 out of 5 stars.


  1. General health: While getting a new dog, owners should also consider their overall health. Numerous breeds are at a higher risk of getting sick due to multiple genetic diseases. Such dogs require extra care and attention from their owners. But in the case of Scottish Terriers, you should not worry. They are a healthy breed that can live a long, happy life without getting sick. Even though they do get sick, the chances of sickness are much lower.


  1. Weight gain potential: Scottish Terriers have a moderate potential to gain weight. They tend to gain more weight than they should, which can quickly become obesity in the future. Therefore, dog food should be selected very carefully after doing your research regarding the best quality available near you. Their weight gain potential has got 3 out of 5 stars.


  1. Size: Despite their high levels of energy and intensity, Scotties are small in size. They have cute little legs that make them more adorable. Their small size is also why they easily adjust in the apartment lifestyle; they do not require larger space to rest, sleep, or eat. For their size, Scottish Terriers got 2 out of 5 marks. 

  • Trainability


The trainability of Scottish Terriers is full of ups and downs. It is more like a rollercoaster. The reason is that Scotties are full of various characteristics; while some can help them train well, others, such as their stubbornness, might turn training into a huge challenge. Overall, the trainability of Scottish Terriers has got 3 out of 5 stars. 


Here are the factors behind the score.


  1. Easily trainable: Scottish Terriers have a reputation for being among the most difficult-to-train dogs. They are stubborn and want to live independently. They can give anyone a hard time, especially novice owners. Therefore, you need to mentally prepare yourself for a lot of setbacks on the path of training. Scotties are going to test your patience a lot. Their ease in training has scored 1 out of 5 stars. 


  1. Intelligence: Despite their stubborn nature, Scottish Terriers are highly intelligent breeds. If you give them sufficient mental stimulation, their minds will work faster because they have sharp minds that can quickly grasp commands from their master. Their intelligence has got a score of 4 out of 5 stars. 


  1. Mouthiness potential: Even though their drooling potential is the lowest, Scotties are known to be mouthy. They like chewing and biting stuff. They may also bite their master, but that would be out of affection; the bite would not hurt at all. Their mouthiness potential has scored 3 out of 5 stars.


  1. Prey drive: Since Scotties are Terriers, they have a natural desire for hunting as they were trained to hunt. This desire might get triggered by seeing small animals like cats, rabbits, etc. roaming around them. It is recommended that the owner put a physical fence around them to keep other animals safe. The prey drive of Scotties has got 3 out of 5 stars. 


  1. Barking Potential: One of the unique characteristics that define Scottish Terriers is that they bark a lot. Scotties are in the third position in the top three most barking dogs after German Shepherds and Rottweiler. They tend to bark louder, alert the owner, and show aggressive behavior if they see a stranger. So, they are the right breed to raise if you want a watchdog for security reasons. That’s why their tendency to bark has got 4 out of 5 stars. 


  1. Wanderlust Potential: As they like to live freely, it is no surprise that Scottish Terriers have the highest wanderlust potential. They are a spirited breed who would take every opportunity to run after anything that attracts them. It can be any animal as well as noise. They won’t care about their master. To prevent them from running away, you should leash them when they go for walks. Their wanderlust potential has scored 5 out of 5 stars. 

  • Physical Needs 


Don’t confuse their short legs with low energy - Scottish Terriers are highly enthusiastic and love participating in exercise sessions as well as games. They are small, but their energy and intensity level is comparable with the biggies. Their score for physical needs is 4 out of 5 stars


Here is how: 


  1. Energy level: Scotties are breeds of high energy. They were bred to hunt and trained to dig, which made them hardworking and enthusiastic in nature. If you wish to raise a Scottie, get ready for a thorough workout routine because it is one of their basic necessities. For energy level, they have scored 4 out of 5 stars. 


  1. Intensity level: Scottish Terriers also have high intensity. It implies that their routine work is done with great vigor. It can be small and simple tasks such as playing, running, eating, and drinking. Through their behavior, you can easily see their intensity, force, and strength. That’s why their intensity has scored 4 out of 5 stars


  1. Exercise needs: Dogs with high enthusiasm and intensity levels are not meant to be couch potatoes. They need work and purpose in their life because they were bred this way. That is where exercise helps; it is a healthy way to exert all their energy with intensity. That is why exercise is necessary for Scottish Terriers, making their score 4 out of 5 stars for exercise needs. 


  1. Playfulness: Scotties are vibrant, cheerful, and fun-loving. They love being a part of family games in picnics and vacations. As they love their owner’s family, they enjoy playing with children and brighten up their day. Their playfulness has scored 4 out of 5 stars.

Scottish Terriers - Important Stats that Every Scottie Owner Should Know




Dog Breed Group/Purpose

Terrier Group

Average Height

25-28 cm (male)
25-28 cm (female)

Average Weight

8.5-10 kg (male) 

8-9.5 kg (female)

Life Expectancy

12-15 years

Breed Popularity



Independent, Feisty, Free-spirited, Confident, Self-assured, Playful 

Club Recognition

UKC Classification: Terrier Group

AKC Classification: Terrier Group

Exercise Requirements 

1-hour walk per day 

Energy Level



Double (Outer Coat is rough and undercoat in soft)

Coat Characteristic

Dense and Soft Undercoat

Hard and Bristle Outercoat 























Interesting Facts about Scottish Terriers 

Scotties have been people’s favorite for years. Their temperament is unique and different from most of the breeds. Numerous facts are associated with Scottish Terriers that many people don’t know about, but true dog lovers always look for as much information about their favorite breed as they can.

So, here are some interesting facts about your favorite Scotties that you should know: 

  • Mysterious Origin 

We know by their name that Scottish Terriers belong to Scotland originally, but that’s the only information we have about their origin. In literature, John Lesley mentioned a breed like Scottish Terrier for the first time. He described them as low-height dogs who could hunt down small animals like cats, rats, badgers, and foxes from their burrows. 

  • Scotties as Ratters

Scotties are classified as Terriers, which comes from the word Terra, meaning the Earth. Initially, the purpose of their breeding was burrowing, and they were brave enough to hunt animals as wild as badgers. Scotties were extraordinarily brave and courageous that people even started assuming them to be predecessors of bears instead of dogs.

  • Famous Among Royalties 

When the popularity of Scotties increased, it reached the Royal Kingdom too. King James VI of Scotland was fond of Scottish Terriers and helped increase their popularity across Europe in the 17th century. He also gifted six Scottish Terriers to the French Monarch. Scotties were queen Victoria’s favorite as well. She had some Scotties, among which a Scottie named Laddie was her favorite. 

  • Confusion Regarding their Purity

The first appearance of Scottish Terriers in the dog show was in 1860. As a result, numerous similar breeds started participating in various dog shows, including Skye Terriers, Dandy Dinmonts, and Yorkies. The breeder claimed such breeds to be Scottish Terriers, too, which offended the breeders of real Scottish Terriers. They decided to file a complaint against fake breeders to Live Stock Journal and asked them to set a standard for Scotties. The heated argument continued but could not be settled. The publication decided to stop the argument until each breeder described the breed, which was claimed to be a true Scottish Terrier. 


This challenge was accepted by Captain Gordon Murray, who described what a true Scottish Terrier looked like. In 1880, J.B. Morrison drew a standard Scottish Terrier, and two years later, the Scottish Terrier Club was established in Scotland as well as England. 

  • Over Excitement can be Harmful to Scotties.

An overly excited Scottish Terrier tends to develop Scottish Cramp. In this neurological disorder, their muscles start tensing up, resulting in difficulty in walking, which might make them fall too.


Fortunately, Scottish Cramp is not deadly, nor does it last long. Even Scotties don’t feel the pain either. 

  • Find a Scottish Terrier in Monopoly 

Who doesn’t love Monopoly? If you do, then probably you have already noticed that Scottie is one of the important pieces of Monopoly.

In recent voting about who should remain in the game, Scottish Terriers received the most votes, which shows how much people like their presence in the monopoly. 


History and Origin of Scottish Terriers


Scottish Terriers are known to be one of the oldest breeds of Scotland. The origin and lineage of Scotties are unknown and confusing as the initially various Terriers of highland were bred in the name of Skye Terriers. Though it is confirmed that Scotties are closely related to West Highland White Terriers since their ancestors belong to the same region. 


Initially, farmers trained Scotties for hunting and killing Venoms, which is a wild type of rabbit. They were also trained to hunt foxes and badgers in the Highlands. 

Even though the exact origin of Scottish Terriers is unknown and undocumented, the first mention of a breed similar to Scottish Terriers is dated back in 1436 in the famous book of Don Leslie, ‘The History of Scotland 1436-1561.’ 


Sir Joshua Reynolds also portrayed a breed similar to Scottish Terriers in one of his paintings in which he showed a scene of a girl caressing a dog.  

Soon, the love and admiration of Terriers that were ancestors of Scotties reached the kingdom. After becoming James I of England, King James VI gifted six Terriers to a French monarch during the 17th century, after which, the popularity of this breed kept increasing. 


Scottish Terriers made their first appearance in the USA in 1883. In 1885, two years after their arrival, the first Scottie was registered in the AKC, namely, Prince Charlie. The golden era for Scotties, which witnessed the peak in their popularity, was from the 1930s to the early 1940s. During this time, many celebrities started admiring and owning Scotties, such as Bette Davis and Humphrey Bogart. In 1936, they became the third most famous breed in the USA. Though their popularity did not last long, they are still beloved to countless dog lovers. 


Scotties are known to have the second-most victories (nine times champion) of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, the first being the Wire Fix Terrier. They have the honor of being one of the two breeds that have stayed in the White House for over three times, other than the German Shepherd. 


The famous family board game called Monopoly has also featured Scotties. The game was first introduced in the 1930s, which was the peak of popularity for Scotties. Moreover, a Disney movie called ‘Lady and the Tramp’ featured a Scottish Terrier as a friend of the lady, the American Cocker Spaniel.

Scottish Terrier Appearance

Even though they are small, Scottish Terriers are robust as well as strong. Their hard, long outer coat makes their appearance unique and different from other breeds. They have a long head, strong jaws, and bigger teeth.

Their ears are pointed and front-facing right above their head with their eyes shaped like almonds.

Typically, Scottish Terriers have a square body, small back, and a wide ribcage. They have a short tail that gets upright whenever they are alert.

Their physique fits perfectly with their original job, which was to hunt animals. The unique appearance of Scottish Terriers is one of the reasons why they make such muscular hunting dogs.

Scottish Terriers have a bristly outer coat and a softer, denser undercoat. It helps them live through cold weather, which was common in Scotland, where they originally come from.

Scotties can be found in one color commonly – black. However, that’s not the only color available. The colors of Scottish Terriers are:

  • Black
  • Wheaten  
  • Brindle
  • Grey
  • Dark Grey
  • White

Their big, shiny eyes have different colors, including:

  • Black
  • Greyish-black
  • White

What is the Average Size and Lifespan of Scottish Terriers? 


Scotties are known to be short-legged breeds that have a compact and small physique and a sturdy bone structure. Their coats are rough and hard, which makes them weather resilient. Because of their hard coat, they can survive cold weather without needing extra precautions. 


They are mostly found in three colors, i.e., black, white, and grey. They have small, pointed ears right above their skull. 


In regards to their height, Scotties are nearly 25-28 cm tall for both males and females. As far as their weight is concerned, male Scotties weigh around 8.5-10 kg and females 8-9.5 kg.


If they are having their needs fulfilled, including exercise needs and dietary needs, Scotties can live a long, energetic life. Scotties have an average lifespan of around 12-15 years. So, make sure to love them endlessly and cherish memorable moments with them as long as they are living. 

More about Scottish Terriers- Personality and Temperament 


The following are some key personality traits that are found in Scottish Terriers: 

  • Feisty 

Compared to other Terriers, Scottish Terriers are more alert, quick, and feisty. They are not afraid of anyone and know how to protect their packs (their master’s family) from unwanted visitors. They are known to have a free spirit, which also causes wanderlust in them. Their confidence and self-sufficient attitude make them unique even among the same breed, i.e., Terriers.

  • Independent 

Unlike some dogs who tend to act exactly like their master wants them to, Scottish Terriers live independently; they demand their separate space for eating, sleeping, resting. Scotties don’t like anyone interfering in their personal space and might try to defend themselves if they observe any interference. They listen to their own hearts and live the way they want. They’d rather prefer being called your companions than your pets.

  • Playful 

Scotties are passionate about achieving what they want to, which makes them the best partners in games. They are highly playful and enthusiastic breeds. While they like being playing partners, their self-respect won't allow them only to obey your commands. They play independently, so if you give them a ball to catch, they might never bring it back. Instead, they’d start playing on their own. 


Moreover, they are smart enough to play complicated games such as hide and seek. They can find out their partners from anywhere by just using their smelling and hearing senses

  • Quick 

Scotties are fond of running, especially when they are chasing a toy. The owner often gets tired way before their Scotties do. They might not do well in jumping competitions, but they’ll surely give a tough time to every other breed in running games. Their ability to remain alert and act quickly under unusual or suspicious circumstances is why they make such courageous and daring watchdogs. Their desire to protect their family is their priority. 

What are the Common Health Problems of Scottish Terriers?


Being worried about the health problems that your Scottie might go through in the future is a terrible feeling that every responsible dog owner goes through. Doing your research before getting a Scottie is good for both you and your Scottie. 


Scottish Terriers have many genetic diseases that impact the breed significantly. Although genetic diseases are not guaranteed to occur to your dog, they will be at a higher risk than other breeds. 


Having prior information about your dog’s health and planning, according to it, will save you from panicking when it occurs. In some cases, you can avoid the disease by simply following precautionary measures too. 

Following are some common health problems among Scottish Terrier Breeds: 

  • Dental Disease 



Dental disease is fairly common in every breed, especially in Scottish Terriers. Unluckily, Scotties are at higher risk of having teeth problems. At first, tartar starts to develop in their teeth, which leads to gum and roots infection.


If you don’t take care of your Scottie's dental health, these diseases will cause them to lose all of their teeth at some point. That’s not all. Such diseases may have a strong direct impact on the dog’s liver, kidneys, joints, and heart. In severe cases, their lifespan can also reduce. 

  • Infections 


Just like other breeds, Scotties can easily catch viral and bacterial infections too. Some common infections are rabies, distemper, and parvo.

The good news? All such diseases are preventable. If you vaccinate your Scottie, they can be saved from such harmful health conditions. 

  • Hyperadrenocorticism 

Also known as Cushing, Hyperadrenocorticism is a condition of adrenal glands breakdown due to which an excessive amount of hormones is produced. Though it is common in other breeds, Scotties are at a higher risk. 


Cushing starts developing gradually, so symptoms at the early stages are often passed over. Some of the signs include drinking an unusual amount of water, which leads to more urination and a higher appetite with a lesser level of activity. 

  • Eye Diseases 

Eyes are one of those few things which, if not functions properly, impact your dog greatly. Scottish Terriers have genetic eye problems. They tend to inherit such diseases or develop over time. Some eye diseases are dangerous enough to cause permanent blindness if not cured immediately. 


Among Scottish Terriers, Cataracts is a widespread eye disease. The eyes start to turn opaque – giving a cloudy look rather being clear. 

  • Scottish Cramps


It is a rare condition that is mainly found in Scottish Terriers. Scottish cramps can occur to Scottie pups and young adults after a thorough workout session. The dog might not feel anything as it is not a painful disease. But it can lead to various other problems.


Scottish Cramps are genetic and incurable. However, you can give them some relief through medications. As far as breeding is concerned, Scotties with Scottish cramps should not be bred because their offspring are likely to inherit those genes from them and suffer for the rest of their life. 

  • Allergies



Like humans are allergic to various things, dogs can develop allergies too. However, unlike humans, their allergies do not cause them to sneeze or make their eyes itchy, rather it affects their skin. Scottish Terriers often develop allergies, which particularly affect their belly, feet, skin, and ears. Signs of allergies can appear in the early stages, usually from one to three years. Gradually, it gets worse over time. You should be concerned if your dog licks his paws, rubs his face, or frequently develops an ear infection. 


Allergies are not fatal. There are numerous treatments available to them. 

  • Cancer


Most of the older dogs die of cancer. Since the lifetime of Scotties is longer, they tend to get cancer as well. Although there are treatments of cancer such as chemotherapy or surgery, it can be fatal if not diagnosed at earlier stages. Lymphoma is the most common cancer type among Scottish Terriers. 


In Lymphoma, the body starts producing abnormal white blood cells, and since these blood cells exist across the body, cancer spreads everywhere.

Although this disease is deadly, its treatment through chemotherapy has a high rate of success. However, the treatment requires your time as well as your money because it is an expensive one and lasts long. 

  • Kidney or Bladder Stones



Sometimes, stones are formed inside the bladder or kidney of the dog. According to the research, Scottish Terriers are at more risk of suffering from kidney or bladder stones than other breeds.

For diagnosing kidney or bladder stones, you must get your Scottie’s urine testing done. 


Some signs include the appearance of blood in your Scottie’s urine, inability to urinate, or difficulty while urinating. If you observe such signs in your Scottie, you should get professional help from their vet right away. 


Kidney and bladder stones hurt the Scotties very much! 

  • Obesity



Obesity is a severe disease for Scottish Terriers. It can lead to joint issues and worsen digestive disorders and metabolism. Furthermore, it can increase the risk of heart disease and back pain. Therefore, you gave them to be very careful with their diet and treats. Don’t give them extra food just because they look at you with their innocent faces and bright, hopeful eyes. If that happens, you should distract them with your hugs and cuddles, and interesting games.


No matter how much you love them, don’t let them eat excessively. It will be harmful to your Scottie and seeing them in pain will hurt you too.

  • Spaying your Scottie

It's not a health problem, it's rather the solution of many. Spaying is described as a procedure in which the ovaries and uterus of a female Scottie are removed through surgery. For males, the right term is neutering in which their testicles are removed. Neutering or spaying a Scottish Terrier is one of the best things you can ever do. The benefits of spaying are more than just the prevention of pregnancy. For instance, It can lower the risk of multiple types of cancer.


During the procedure, the dog is given anesthesia to identify and determine other diseases that your dog might have. Additionally, the required blood test before surgery is also helpful in identifying any other disease.

How Much Food Should a Scottish Terrier Eat?


Concerning the dietary requirements of a Scottish pup, they tend to eat more than the adults since they are growing. 


Adult Scotties eat around 1 to 1.5 cups of dog food per day. The amount of dog food can be divided into two meals per day. Additionally, always pick the finest quality of dog food and never compromise on their diet. If you want to raise a healthy Scottie, you should take care of their dietary needs. 


A dog food brand's poor quality often deteriorates the quality of its coat and ultimately results in several health conditions.

Best Dog Food for Scottish Terriers 


For everyone looking for detailed information about the high-quality dog food options available, you should check out the list of the best dog food for Scotties mentioned below:



Your active Scottie will love having American Journey as it is filled with nutrients. It contains real Salmon that are full amino acids and proteins which are necessary for your dog’s health. 


To fulfill the energy requirements, American Journey has included chickpeas and sweet potatoes so that your Scottie remains active and energetic. 

It also contains healthy veggies and fruits like blueberries, carrots, and dried kelp that provides your Scottie with antioxidants and fiber. 

Here are some key benefits of American Journey 

  1. It is free of grain, soy, wheat, and corns so that sensitive Scotties doesn’t face upset stomach
  2. Numerous vegetables and fruits are included to ensure the availability of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants for a strong immune system.
  3. It provides protein and amino acids in excessive amounts through deboned Salmon, which is helpful in maintaining lean muscles. 
  4. Sweet potatoes and chickpeas provide the fiber that increases the energy level.


Weight of a Scottie (Kg)

Required Feeding (Cups)

Calories (Day)











1 1/3 



1 2/3



2 1/4



2 3/4



3 1/4



3 2/3






4 1/2






5 1/3





























Stella & Chewy's Chewy's Chicken Dinner Patties Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food



Stella & Chewy’s Chicken dog food will satisfy all the cravings of your dog because its recipe is based on the diet dogs would have preferred if they were out there in the wild. 

Here are some highlights of Stella & Chewy’s dog food: 

  1. The chicken used in its manufacturing is cage-free, with no antibiotics or hormones used.
  2. Patties are freeze-dried with excessive raw nutrition, which can be used by adding water or as rehydrate. 
  3. Manufactured to provide an alternative to the natural diet It is created as a mimic of Scotties’ natural, wild-life diet in, it does not contain gluten, grain, artificial coloring or preservatives, or fillers. 
  4. Probiotics are added to a well-balanced recipe to help Scottie digest completely. It is perfect for Scotties with a sensitive stomach. 
  5. Manufactured in the USA with the cooperation of trustworthy and reliable suppliers. 


Weight of a Scottie 

Number of Patties per day (Adults)


2 1/2










14 1/2



























Primal Chicken Formula Nuggets dog food is yet another alternative to Scottie pup’s natural diet that contains all the advantages of a delicious and safe raw-food diet.

It doesn’t require you to chop, grind, mix, or measure any ingredient. Primal Chicken Formula Nuggets will maintain your Scottie pup’s ideal weight and boost their health generally. 

Some key benefits of Primal Chicken Formula Nuggets are as follows: 

  1. It is manufactured with chicken that is free of steroids, antibiotics, and hormones. 
  2. It contains fresh ground bones to fulfill calcium requirements. 
  3. It has unrefined vitamins and certified organic minerals that keep your Scottie healthy and provides them with a balanced diet.
  4. Amino acids, vitamins, essential fatty acids, and minerals are also added in this formula.

Weight of a Scottie (Kg)

Daily Feeding (Nuggets)













45 and above 


















Puppy Dry Dog Food



Puppy Dry is a grain-free dog food that is biologically appropriate. It contains high-quality deboned turkey, chicken, whole atlantic mackerel, yellow flounder, fruits, while eggs, and vegetables. 


The combination of such nutrients is not only healthy for your Scottie pups but also delicious and tasty according to their taste buds. 


Some key benefits of Puppy Dry dog food are: 

  1. It is gain free, which removes the risk of allergies. 
  2. It does not have any by-products.
  3. It is manufactured in Kentucky, USA.
  4. Puppies need an excessive amount of fats and proteins to ensure healthy growth, which is present In puppy dry dog food. 


Weight of a Scottie

Daily Feeding of Expected 5 Kg Weight as Adult (Cups)

Daily Feeding of Expected 10 Kg Weight as Adult (Cups)

Daily Feeding of Expected 20 Kg Weight as Adult (Cups)

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How Should You Take Care of the Grooming Needs of Scottish Terriers


Scotties are one of the low-shedding breeds, which means they require frequent grooming to keep their outer long and short inner hair healthy and tangle-free. 


Their grooming is a simple and easy task that can be done daily. 

Some owners prefer trimming their Scottie’s hair to keep them safe from dirt, grass, and any other object that can get tangled in their hair. 

Following are the grooming ideas for Scottish Terriers to keep them healthy, active, and hygienic: 

  • Bathing


Even though bathing is essential for their hygiene, Scotties should not be bathed frequently. Excessive bathing will eventually soften their long, rough hair, which is necessary for them to survive the cold weather. 


Use the best-quality dog shampoo and conditioner for Scotties. When bath time is over, make sure you dry them thoroughly. 


To dry them properly, turn the blow dryer on and brush them in the opposite direction of the hair growth. Keep drying and brushing until you are certain that their hair close to the skin is dry too. 

  • Nails


After bathing, you should check on their nails too. Scotties have solid and powerful nails. Therefore you are recommended to use clippers of guillotine style. Make sure that the sharpness of blades is good enough to cut their nails neatly and smoothly. 


Don’t rush while clipping the nails. You should be very calm throughout the process, or else you might end up clipping the quick, which would be harmful to them. Clipping the dog’s quick will cause pain and excessive blood loss. If you think you are not the right person for this job, you can take your Scottie to a professional groomer or vet.

  • Clipping 


You can easily clip your Scottish Terrier at home if you have the right tools. The dog should be clean enough to be clipped, and the clippers should be sharp enough to clip the dogs. 


That’s why clipping is recommended right after bath time because clean and free-from-dirt hair is easy to clipping. 


Be careful while using clippers. Don’t cut the hair of the body, beard, legs, and eyebrows too short as it should be left long. Avoid clipping near the eyes or any other sensitive body part. It may hurt the dog. 


Remain calm, firm, and positive throughout the process. Reward your Scottie by patting and praising him. 


Alternatively, you can also skip the steps mentioned above and hire a professional groomer to groom your Scottie. 

  • Stripping 


You should avoid trimming if you want to show your Scottish Terrier. Since trimming softens their hair, which can be considered a foul, you should rather go for stripping. 


In stripping, you brush your Scottie’s hair against their natural growth direction and pluck out only the longer hair in the growth’s direction. In this way, your dog will be all groomed up while maintaining his natural contours.


Stripping is a critical task that should only be handled by professionals and experts. You can sign up for grooming classes and learn from professionals if you are willing to groom your Scottie at home. Professional groomers teach the entire stripping process in their grooming classes. 

  • Eyes and Ears 


Eyes and ears are among those body parts of Scotties, which get dirty very easily. You must keep checking them, or else your dog might suffer from eyes or ear diseases. 


To cleanse them thoroughly, you can use a warm and moist piece of cloth or cotton ball. Both the eyes and ears of your Scottie should be cleansed at least once a week. In case your Scottie is more of an outgoing dog, he needs to be cleaned more often. 


Additionally, Scotties have fine string teeth. Brushing them twice a week at a minimum is necessary to keep them healthy and prevent mouth diseases. Take care of their exercise needs and treat them as your child. If you are willing to give countless love, hugs, kisses, and pats, and take care of their physical needs, your Scottie will turn out to be an active, healthy, and happy dog. 

Essential Grooming Tools For Scottish Terriers 




  • For bathing your Scottie, you should use shampoos that suit them, such as oatmeal shampoo, hypoallergenic shampoo, aloe vera shampoo, and wiry coat shampoo. 


  • For clipping their nails, some of the best nail clippers are Safari Professional Nail Clipper, Millers Forge Quality Nail clipper, GoPets nail clipper, and Andis Premium Large Dog nail clipper. 


  • You should always buy a high-quality brush to make sure that your Scottie remains tangle-free such as oval pin brush, bristle brush, striping brush, and grooming comb.


  • Grooming tables are also very important for every dog owner no matter if you are a beginner or a professional. Such tables are designed to assist you in grooming your Scottie, so they are usually stable, durable, and sustainable. 


  • You can also get a grooming kit that contains all the essential grooming tools needed. There are multiple grooming kits available at reasonable charges that include a brush with flexible bristles and rounded pins, flea comb to get rid of fleas, and some scissors to trim your Scottie whenever you want. 

Exercising and Training your Scottish Terriers


Routinely exercise is essential for Scottish Terriers to keep them physically and mentally fit. Ideally, you should take your Scottie for a walk at least two times every day. Originally they were bred to dig and hunt small animals, so they need these thorough workout sessions to apply their energy effectively. 1-hour exercise every day is ideal for Scottish Terriers. 

Training Scotties can be harder than the other breeds. It's not because of their intellectual capabilities but their willingness to be trained. They are stubborn and independent, so obeying commands might make them uncomfortable. That’s why few families can handle Scottish Terriers. 

Although Scotties will take more time than other breeds like Border Collies or Labrador Retrievers, training Scotties is possible. 

Here are some tips for training your Scottish Terrier: 

  • Be Patient and Consistent 

Scotties take more time than other breeds to train. You should not compare them with other easy-to-train dogs like Labrador Retrievers or Border Collies. Nevertheless, training Scotties is possible. You only need to be patient, consistent and determined. For training Scotties, regularity is the key. The more consistent you are, the better their training will be. 

  • Create a loving Bond 

The training period is a perfect opportunity to form a strong bond with your pet. Scotties might not like training, but they love praises, kisses, and rewards from their master. If you provide them with such things, they will have no choice left but to listen to you willingly, not forcefully.

  • Don’t be Harsh

When considering their stubborn, free-spirited, and rough nature, one might think a harsh behavior will train them well. 


That’s a wrong approach. Don’t ever be harsh on Scottish terriers.


Remember that Scotties are highly sensitive. The smallest behavioral changes can be sensed by Scotties. 


Besides, why become aggressive when things can sort out by just being patient? 

  • Consult a Professional Help 

Don’t feel bad if your Scottie gives you a hard time in training. It's just their nature. Dog owners face such problems all the time, which is why the best thing you can do in such circumstances is consulting professional trainers.


You can ask your nearest Scottie breeder, vet, or any rescue group to get you connected with a professional trainer. 


However, it's difficult to find a trainer. As an alternative, you can search and learn from the internet. There are tons of websites providing valuable content in the form of videos and blogs where professional trainers share vital techniques and tips to train your Scottie.

  • Motivate your Scotties 

Another important element that helps during the training process is understanding what motivates your dog. A motivated Scottie is determined and committed to chasing the target no matter the cost. If you find out the right way to motivate your Scottie, you will be surprised to see the results. They will become excited about training which will be effective for both of you. 

Are Scottish Terriers Good with Children and Other Pets?


After being informed about the temperament of Scottish Terriers and their desire to live freely, you might wonder if bringing a Scottie is a wise choice or not, especially to the families with small children and pets. 


The answer, however, cannot be classified as black or white. It has numerous factors that affect the Scottish Terriers’ behavior. Scotties are not always uncomfortable around toddlers. In several cases, they get along pretty well. They interact and play with children and also enjoy their company. Hence, it can be said that not every Scottie is going to misbehave with small children. Every Scottie owner experiences different behaviors.  


Some Scotties might accept children and start adoring them right from the start, while others take longer to consider them as a family. Nevertheless, some may not welcome toddlers around them at all. 


Here, your priority should be to understand your dog’s nature. The more you understand him, the better will you raise him. An understanding owner should know which Scottie will be entirely comfortable around children, which would tolerate their presence to some extent, and which won't tolerate kids at all. They all have different boundaries. So, teaching your children to respect those boundaries is essential to build a strong bond among them.


Don’t rush into things, and remember your Scottie will take his time to learn socializing. Be patient with them. 


Having confidence and firm belief in the Scotties is also very important. If you act nervously every time you let your child get closer to the dog, they will feel nervous too. Scottie might not be able to get comfortable with kids because of your tense and nervous behavior, which will end up in an awkward situation for all of you. 


Think positive and act positively while letting your children play with a Scottie. They might be hesitant at first, but soon they’ll get used to it. After all, Scottish Terriers indeed are a playful breed. They cannot resist lively, refreshing, and energetic games. 

Best Australia-based Breeder Organizations of Scottish terriers 




So far, you have learned enough information to understand the needs of a Scottish Terrier. Now, before deciding to bring a Scottie to your home, you must ask yourself some serious questions: 

  • Will you remain committed to the emotional needs of your Scottie? Will you spend time with them?
  • Will Scottie be able to adjust to your lifestyle? Will your house have a suitable and comfortable environment?
  • Will you take care of their health? Are you determined to take the Scottie to vet visits and bare their medical expenses in case of a medical emergency? 
  • Will you provide the best quality of dog food to ensure that they remain healthy?
  • Are you going to take care of their grooming? Will you groom your Scottie regularly? 
  • Will you fulfill their mental and physical exercise needs?
  • Are you going to be a positive, gentle trainer to your Scottie?

If your answers are affirmative, then you can welcome a Scottie as your new companion. 

What Should You Ask a Breeder Before getting a Scottie?

Here are some basic and necessary questions that you must ask the breeder/rescuer before getting a Scottie: 


  • Genetic Problems and Certification

Many breeds have experienced genetic health issues that they inherit from their parents. However, disease-free dogs are certified after testing evaluation. You should do your homework before talking to the breeder about health concerns and find out which diseases your favorite breed can go through. Ask for a certificate of being disease-free to prevent future problems and expenses.

  • Socialization 

Socializing your dog is generally important, but in the case of Scottish Terriers, it is also challenging as they don’t tend to willingly socialize with people or other animals. Training at the early stage is essential and is something you should know before getting the dog. 

  • Vaccination 

You must be clear about the schedule of vaccination. For instance, when did they get their last vaccine, and when will be the next round? You must never skip their vaccine because it will keep the Scottie away from several diseases. 

  • Family History

You should also ask the family history of the dog. For instance, what has been the lifespan of the other dogs of this breed? How long did they live, and what were the causes of their death? Save this information because it will be helpful to track their health when they grow older. 

Here are some breeder organizations of Scottish Terriers in Australia.

Cabochon Kennels has been breeding Scottish Terriers and have bred Australian’s best Scottie, Stevie. Cabochon Kennel operates from Melbourne, Cranbourne, and Victoria. 

Kilrak Kennels has been into the breeding business for more than 50 years. Though they operate on small-scale, the dogs bred by Kilrak Kennels are of the best temperament as they raise Scotties just like their own pets in their home. They are based in Melbourne. 

It is yet another small kennel that comes under the best Kennels in Australia. Situated in Melbourne, Shortblack Kennels breed healthy and happy Scotties. All the dogs are provided with the best food, healthcare, and the environment. 

Best Australia-based Rescue Groups for Scottish Terriers




The following are some reasons why rescue groups are helpful for every dog owner: 


  1. If you find any dog which seems abandoned or lost, you’d know who you should approach. Rescue groups will take care of them and provide them shelter while searching for a new home for them too. 
  2. If you face a financial crisis at some point in your life and keeping the dog doesn’t seem possible, you can contact the rescue groups to connect with potential owners who’d love your dog just as you do. 
  3. If you want to get a dog, you can get it from a rescue group. The dogs there are usually well-trained as they have been with a family before. They only need a caring and loving family. So, you should adopt a dog instead of buying one. 

Why Should You Adopt Instead of Buying a Scottie?

Here are some reasons why adopting is better than buying a Scottish Terrier

  • Help a Soul

Shelters are usually filled with dogs, but their potential buyers are very few. Imagine being a member of a family, having all your needs fulfilled on time just to be kicked out or lost one day. How does that feel? 


That is why adoption is a better option. By adopting a Scottish Terrier, you will provide a Scottie with everything that has been taken away from them and that they craved for, for a while. Remember how sensitive they are? If you just welcome them in your family with open arms, they will love you more than themselves. 

  • More Loving Scottie

Shelter dogs, including Scottish Terriers, miss their old families, fun, treats, food, and shelter. They hope to be adopted by such a family again, and when they do, they become more kind, loving, and grateful. 


They already know how to behave with the family as they’ve been with one before and in many cases, they are well-trained too. All they need is love from their owner so they can love them back. 

  • Fewer Expenses  

Getting a dog from a rescue group has a lot of perks. You wouldn’t need to spend your time and money on many things like spaying or neutering, vaccinations, training, and buying price. This amount can go into your savings, which might be helpful for your Scottie in the future too. 

  • Helping More than Just a Scottie

If you are thinking adoption is going to help a Scottish Terrier, you should think big. It is true that you are giving a dog a new life which he will forever cherish, but that’s not all; you will help the rescue groups too. 


Numerous rescue groups rescue millions of dogs, which becomes a challenge to look after. By choosing adoption over buying, you will help those rescue groups run their operations effectively. 

  • A Sense of Achievement 

Life’s purpose is not limited to serving yourself. One of the greatest contributions you can do in this world is helping someone in need. Adoption will give you a sense of achievement in your life. You will change a dog’s life, which impacts your spirit. Not to forget the endless love and care you will be getting in return. 


In your newly adopted Scottie, you will find the meaning of contentment and fulfillment. Those feelings will reduce the sense of loneliness that every one of us sometimes feels. Also because your Scottie will be there for you, providing you comfort on the rainy days. 

  • Boycotting Mass Breeding

Numerous inexperienced breeders breed their dogs and produce several pups over and over until the health of the mother starts deteriorating. This is cruel and should be boycotted. Such breeders only care for the money they’ll make and not the dog that goes through the painful experience repeatedly. By adopting a dog, you are also contributing your part in boycotting greedy, inexperienced, and illiterate breeders. 

It is a regional rescue group that connects Scotties with loving families who wish to adopt them. They also organize get-togethers on a small scale where anyone can come, have some food, and play with Scotties. 

Rescue Me is a rescue group for Scottish Terriers that helps rehoming Scotties who have been lost or abandoned. So far, Rescue Me has been able to find homes of 1,654 Scotties and aims to continue helping them in the future. You can volunteer your service or donate to contribute to this great cause. 


Scottish Terriers are a special breed. They’ll become your best friend but won't let you rule over them. They’ll love you, but they’d need their “me time “as well. They are exceptional watchdogs as they have been bred to protect their pack. They’ll protect their family at every cost.


Though some factors should be considered before bringing a Scottish Terrier in your life, they are not good with toddlers and small animals. They are also difficult to train. But over time they’ll learn to behave as you want them to. Train them with love and be gentle with them. They’ll soon understand you, and when they do, you will witness them becoming a perfect addition to your family!

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