The Scottish Terrier, like most terrier breeds, is a strong-willed little dog with a lot of personality! Intelligent with an extremely independent streak, the Scottie knows how to get what he wants.
Obedience training is definitely recommended to teach him the rules of your house… and keep you sane. After all, Scotties without any training can be difficult to live with. That said, the breed can also be challenging to train not only because they are strong-willed, but also sensitive. There is a fine line between giving him too little correction, and giving him too much correction. A skilled trainer should be able to find that line and help him to learn by encouragement and guidance. Scotties do have a great desire to please, however, so once he gets the hang of it he is capable of learning all sorts of new skills! Scottish Terriers all over the country compete in events such as earthdog, agility, conformation, obedience, rally, and cgc.
Scotties are a fairly active breed that need to be walked on a regular basis. Because of their short legs, they do not make good jogging companions, but a daily walk is very beneficial to them. It is highly recommended that Scottie owners have fully-fenced yards, with fencing set up so that the dog cannot dig out. These little hunting dogs have very strong prey drives and will run or dig out of your yard at the first sign of a small animal! A fenced yard will keep him safe and secure.
Pools should also be fully fenced, as a Scottie that leaps into water is not generally a good swimmer. The same goes for leashes. He must be on a leash at all times to curtail his strong hunting drive. It should also be noted that if another dog comes racing up to him to fight, he will definitely accept the challenge and will fight to the death. Therefore, keeping him on a leash allows you to keep him close enough to grab him should a fight break out!
The breed has an aloof temperament with strangers, but are attached and loyal to their families. Not an overly affectionate dog, they show their love by laying at your feet rather than consuming you with kisses. It is for this reason that they are considered to have “dignified” personalities. Although most love to be outside, the breed is not an outside-only dog. He thrives on human companionship and does not do well if left alone. This also includes him being left alone in the house for long periods of time. A lonely Scottie can quickly turn into a destructive Scottie!
Scottish Terriers can live happily alongside children, but only as long as the children are slightly older and fully understand the correct way to treat a dog. Younger kids aren’t generally a good match, as they tend to pull tails and poke at eyes, and Scotties will not put up with that treatment. Most Scotties do well with other pets, however the likelihood of a good relationship often depends on them being raised around other animals from puppyhood.
While they are not guard dogs, they make decent watch dogs. They tend to bark quite freely, especially if they feel like someone or something is trying to come onto their property.
Grooming is an important aspect of care in the Scottish Terrier. He doesn’t shed in the same way that other dogs do and should be kept brushed out, as well as stripped (undercoat pulled out) in order to stay comfortable. This is especially important in Texas’ hot climate! All in all, the Scottish Terrier is an independent, tenacious yet dignified, loving dog. Prospective owners should be aware of his quirks and his needs before choosing to buy. For the right person, however, he can be a great companion and a loyal member of the family.
