DESCRIPTION: This short legged dog is very sturdy, strong, active and surprisingly agile. The Scottie has a hard, corse bristle like coat with a soft under coat. This protects it thorougly from bad weather and severe temperatures. The Scottie has sharp erect ears and has a large nose and large teeth. There is a definate stop between the muzzle and the skull. Its eyes are almond-shaped and dark. The Scottie is a very muscular dog and has a strong muscular neck. The tail will be medium-length and the Scottie will carry his tail straight or slightly curved.
TEMPERAMENT:The scottie is a brave, hardy, protective but very loveable and loyal dog. This breed has variable moods and behaviour. It is inclined to be stubborn and needs firm but gentle handling from an early stage to prevent dominance in your house. Obedience training should be consistent and continiously but persuasive with this breed. The Scottie is lively, highly intelligent, proud and reliable temperament but do not welcome strangers. Scotties are sensitive to criticism and praise, so they should be trained gently. They love to dig, bark and play and are independant dogs. It is best with considerate older children. They make very good house pets.
HEIGHT & WEIGHT: Height 10 - 11 inches (25cm - 28cm) Weight 19 - 23 pounds (8.5kg - 10.5kg)
HEALTH PROBLEMS: Some will contract Scottie Cramp (a difficulty in movement problem),Von Willebrand's disease,flea allergy and skin and jaw problems.
LIVING: These Dogs are good for apartment living and do well in a yard. They prefer cool climates due to their thickish coat.
EXERCISE: They are active dogs and need daily exercise, but will take care of a lot of their own exercise. Though they need to be taken for a daily walk to prevent behaviour problems.
LIFE EXPECTANCY: Between 12 - 15 years
GROOMING: They require regular brushing due to their wiry coat. The Scottie sheds very little hair. Bathe and shampoo them. They should be trimmed twice a year. The Scotties 'skirt' is not clipped while the hair on the back and on the face is trimmed.
ORIGIN: The Scottie was known as the Aberdeen Terrier. They were developed in Scotland in 1700, though the dog that we know today were only bred in 1890. The Scottie were primarily bred for hunting den animals as foxes, otters, rabbits and badgers. It still retains its hunting instincts but are primarily known as a companion dog.
GROUP: Terrier Group
RECOGNITION: AKC, ANKC, ACR, APRI, CET, CCR, CKC, FCI, KCGB, NKC, NZKC, UKC