Description: The Scottish Terrier is a sturdy, robust, small dog. Both sexes will measure 10 to 11 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 19 and 23 pounds. The Scottish Terrier is unmistakable with its short legs, long head, upright ears, and distinctive coat. The teeth are said to be as large as those possessed by a German Shepherd. The shaggy coat of this dog is usually black or brindle, but the lighter wheaten coat is also found. The Scottish Terrier has a beard and prominent 'eyebrows'. The ears and tail are natural. This dog has a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. It is also known as the Scottie or Aberdeen Terrier.

History: Originally, the Scottish Terrier was developed in Scotland as a farm dog. It was used to hunt animals that would be considered vermin - badgers, foxes, rabbits, in their burrows. The short legs of the dog facilitated this. As the birthplace of this dog was near the town of Aberdeen, it derived the name Aberdeen Terrier from this. The Scottie was first brought to America in the 1890s, but did not enjoy popularity until quite a bit later. The Monopoly Game made one of its game pieces a Scottish Terrier since the dog was so popular at the time of the game's creation.

Temperament: The Scottish Terrier is a dog that bonds most strongly to one, possibly two, persons in a household. This dog is very loyal to this person and is protective of them. Because this is a dominant breed, it needs to be socialized at an early age to other people and animals. It is a breed that has a tendency to bite. The Scottish Terrier is much better with older children than with young ones.

Health Problems: For such an attractive little dog, the Scottie unfortunately comes with a rather long list of health problems. One problem is Scottie Cramp, which affects the way the dog's legs work. The dog was just fall over periodically. This breed can also suffer from Von Willebrand's Disease, a form of hemophilia. The Scottish Terrier can experience problems with its jaw and several types of cancer.

Grooming: The Scottish Terrier needs quite a bit of attention to its coat, even if the dog is not going to be shown. As the dog has a double coat consisting of a dense, fine undercoat and a hard, long overcoat, it is important to give this dog regular brushings to prevent tangles and mats. The undercoat must be stripped out twice a year, also, usually by an experienced dog groomer. Make sure the beard is clean of food debris after the dog has eaten.

Living Conditions: The Scottish Terrier adapts well to nearly all living conditions, and will be as happy in an apartment as in a house. The Scottie will want to be near its special person as much as possible, so it is best not to keep it outside. It cannot live outside in winter in any case. This dog will appreciate a walk every day, as well as a play session. It is best to keep the Scottie on a leash while being walked, as the dog's prey drive will cause it to chase any animal it sees.
 

Scottish Terrier Puppy playing