Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier — better known as the “Scottie” — is a compact, powerful terrier with a distinctive brick-shaped head, wiry coat, and strong character. Known as a “Diehard” for its rugged determination and courage, the breed has a well-documented association with notable figures including presidents FDR and George W. Bush.

The Scottie is independent, reserved with strangers, and loyal to its immediate family. It is not a demonstrative breed and suits owners who appreciate a dignified companion rather than an overtly affectionate one.

History and Origin: The Highland Ratter

The Scottie’s origins lie in the rugged highlands of Scotland. For centuries, farmers bred tough little terriers to hunt foxes, badgers, and vermin in the rocky cairns.

Originally, all highland terriers (Scottie, Cairn, Westie, Skye, Dandie Dinmont) were grouped together. It wasn’t until the late 1800s that the Scottish Terrier was standardized as a distinct breed. They were bred to go to ground—digging into burrows to confront animals often larger and fiercer than themselves. This required a dog with immense physical strength (hence the deep chest and powerful neck) and an unshakeable spirit.

They came to America in the 1880s and quickly became a status symbol. By the 1930s, thanks to celebrity owners like Humphrey Bogart and Bette Davis, the Scottie was the third most popular breed in the US.

Physical Characteristics

The Scottie is a compact powerhouse. He is “thick set” and heavy for his size.

• Height: 10 inches at the shoulder.
• Weight: 18 to 22 pounds.

The Silhouette

The Scottie’s profile is iconic.

• Head: Long and brick-shaped.
• Ears: Small, prick ears that stand straight up.
• Tail: Short, carrot-shaped, and carried high (never docked).

Coat and Colors

They have a broken coat: a hard, wiry outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat.

• Black: The most famous color, but not the only one.
• Wheaten: A pale yellow to golden color.
• Brindle: Any shade of tiger-stripe effect (often grey/black).

Temperament: The “Diehard”

The Scottie personality is complex. They are independent, confident, and spirited.

Aloof but Loyal

A Scottie does not wear his heart on his sleeve. He is reserved with strangers and does not make friends easily. However, his loyalty to his own family is absolute. He is a “one-person dog” or “one-family dog.” He won’t jump all over you when you come home; a simple wag of the tail is high praise.

The Watchdog

They make incredible watchdogs. Their bark is deep and menacing—sounding like a much larger dog. They are territorial and will defend their home fearlessly.

Terrier Fire

Do not forget they are terriers. They have a high prey drive and will chase squirrels, cats, and rabbits. They can be scrappy with other dogs, especially of the same sex. They are not submissive and will not back down from a fight.

Scottie vs. Westie vs. Cairn

These three Scottish breeds are cousins but distinct.

• Scottish Terrier: The most dignified and aloof. Largest head, darkest colors.
• West Highland White Terrier (Westie): The friendliest and sunniest personality. Always white.
• Cairn Terrier: The most “natural” looking (think Toto from Wizard of Oz). Scrappy and energetic.

Training the Diehard

Training a Scottie is a negotiation, not a command.

1. Respect: You cannot force a Scottie to do anything. If you try to bully them, they will dig in their heels. You must earn their respect through fair, consistent leadership.
2. Motivation: They are not eager to please like a Lab. You have to make it worth their while. Find what they love (food, squeaky toys) and use it.
3. Short Sessions: They get bored easily. Keep training fun and short.

Energy Level and Exercise

Scotties are moderately active.

• Daily Walks: A sturdy walk on a leash is essential. They love to sniff and patrol their territory.
• Play: They enjoy tug-of-war and chasing balls, but on their own terms.
• Digging: They are born diggers. If you value your garden, give them a designated sandpit or they will landscape your roses.

Health and Lifespan

Scotties generally live 12 to 15 years. However, the breed faces some specific challenges.

• Scottie Cramp: A neurological disorder that affects movement when the dog is stressed or excited. It is not painful but looks alarming (legs stiffen up).
• Von Willebrand’s Disease: A bleeding disorder.
• Craniomandibular Osteopathy (CMO): “Lion Jaw,” a painful bone growth in puppies.
• Bladder Cancer (TCC): Sadly, Scotties have a much higher risk of Transitional Cell Carcinoma than other breeds. Avoiding exposure to lawn chemicals (herbicides) is a crucial preventive measure recommended by vets.

Famous Scottie Owners

The list of Scottie fans reads like a Who’s Who of history.

• Franklin D. Roosevelt: His dog, Fala, is the only presidential pet memorialized in a statue in Washington D.C. Fala attended press conferences and even the signing of the Atlantic Charter.
• George W. Bush: Owned Barney and Miss Beazley. Barney famously wore a “Barney Cam” to give holiday tours of the White House.
• Queen Victoria: A huge fan of the breed in the 19th century.
• Humphrey Bogart: The tough-guy actor loved the tough-guy dog.

Grooming: The Classic Cut

Maintaining the classic Scottie silhouette requires work.

• Hand Stripping: For the proper hard texture, the coat should be hand-stripped.
• Clipping: Most pet owners clip the coat. This softens the texture but is easier. The typical cut leaves a “skirt” around the body and a beard on the face.
• The Beard: It will get wet and dirty. Daily wiping is mandatory.

Is a Scottish Terrier Right for You?

Yes, if:

• You appreciate a dog with dignity and independence.
• You want a loyal companion who isn’t “needy.”
• You live in an apartment (they are calm indoors).
• You don’t have other small pets (rodents/cats).

No, if:

• You want a dog that obeys instantly (Scotties ask “Why?”).
• You have other dominant dogs.
• You want a running partner (short legs aren’t built for speed).
• You are not prepared for regular grooming costs.

The Scottish Terrier is a stubborn, independent, and opinionated breed that requires owners who respect its character and are prepared to work with rather than against its strong will. For those who appreciate this type of terrier personality, it is a loyal and distinctive companion.