The Scottish Terrier is one of five breeds of terrier that find its roots in Scotland. The other notable four are Skye, Cairn, Dandie Dinmont, and West Highland White Terriers. It was dubbed "little diehard" in the 19th century by George, the fourth Earl of Dumbarton. The Earl had a renowned pack of these dogs, that were known to be so brave that they were nicknamed “Diehards”. They are thought to have inspired the name of his Regiment, The Royal Scots, also known as"Dumbarton’s Diehards".

Temperament

Although black is the traditional color for a Scottish Terrier, wheaten Scotties can also be found.

Scotties, while being very affectionate, can also be particularly obstinate. Since this breed has a propensity toward stubbornness, it should be dealt with firm, but gentle handling from an early age or it will dominate the lives of its owners. They are sometimes seen as an aloof breed, while being very loyal to its family and they are historically known to attach themselves to one or two people in the household. The breed has been described as tempestuous, but also quite sensitive.

The "Scottie" is an excellent watchdog because of its tendency to bark only when there is something amiss and because it is typically aloof with strangers. However, this is the ruole, but there are exceptions and it is important to keep in mind that all dogs differ. Considering it's size, it nevertheless is a fearless breed that may be aggressive around other dogs unless introduced to them at an early age.

Scottish Terriers were originally bred to hunt and fight badgers. Therefore, the breed has a natural inclination to dig as well as chase small vermin, such as Squirrels, rats, mice and foxes. It is recommended that they are walked while leashed.

Formal Breed Standard

The Formal Breed Standard for the "Scottie"

History and Origins

Originally known as the Aberdeen Terrier after the Scottish city bearing the same name, they were originally bred with the purpose of ridding the farm of vermin. The Scottish Terrier is the most familiar and possibly oldest of the Highland terriers.

Size & Weight

Height at withers for both sexes should be roughly 25cm (10 in), and the length of back from withers to tail is roughly 28 cm (11 in). Generally a well-balanced Scottie dog should weigh from 8.5-10 kg (19-22 pounds) and a female from 8-9.9 kg (18-21 pounds). It is about 11-15 inches (28-38cm) in height

Grooming Requirements

The Scottie typically has a hard, wiry, long, weather-resistant outer coat and a soft dense under coat. The coat is typically trimmed and blended, with a longer coat on the beard, eyebrows, legs and lower body — traditionally shaggy-to-the-ground. The head, ears, tail and back are traditionally trimmed short.

Exercise Needs

A dog with lots of energy, should be exercised daily.

Health Issues

Scottish Terriers have a greater chance of developing some cancers than other purebred dogs. Referring to research by the Veterinary Medical Data Program in 1986, six cancers that Scotties appeared to be more at risk for (when compared to other dogs) are: bladder cancer and other transitional cell carcinomas of the lower urinary tract; malignant melanoma; gastric carcinoma; squamous cell carcinoma of the skin; lymphosarcoma and nasal carcinoma. Other cancers that are known to commonly affect Scotties include mast cell sarcoma.

Trivia

The Scottie is the only breed of dog that has lived in the White House three times. President Franklin D. Roosevelt was renowned for owning a Scottie named Fala, a gift from his cousin, Margaret Stuckley.[