History

Until 1859 no mention of this breed was recorded, and yet in that year, Scotties where exhibited as a pure breed, albeit under the name of 'Aberdeen Terrier', the area in which they were mostly bred. It is certain, however, that the West Highland White and Scotties are closely related, both their forefathers originating from the Blackmount region of Perthshire and the Moor of Rannoch. These dogs were used to extract vermin from rocks, rats from under the earth and other pests from barns. Capt. Gordon Murray and S E Shirley were responsible for setting the type in 1879 and three years later the Scottish Terrier Club was established.

Appearance

A Scottish Terrier, or Scottie, is a small but resilient terrier. Scotties are fast and have a muscular body, often appearing to be barrel chested. Its traditional grooming is shaggy-to-the-ground. The usual coat color ranges from dark gray to jet black. Scotties with Wheaten (straw to nearly white) coats sometimes occur, but should not be confused with the Wheaten Terrier or West Highland White Terrier.

Temperament

Scotties think they are large dogs and have the boldness and courage to match. To outsiders Scotties appear somewhat morose and serious but to their family and friends they are affectionate and cheerful. Children must be taught that these dogs are not toys and to give them the respect they deserve. They will get along well with other household animals.

Health

Life span: 11 – 13 years
Major concerns: vWD, CMO
Minor concerns: Scotty cramp, intervertebral disc disease
Occasionally seen: none
Suggested tests: DNA for vWD

Characteristics

Their heads should be long without being out of proportion to the size of the dog, with a slight but distinct stop. Their noses are large. Their teeth should be large with a perfect, regular scissor bite. Their eyes should almond-shaped and dark brown, set well apart with a keen, intelligent expression. Their ears should be neat, pointed and erect and set on top of the skull not too closely together. The neck should be long and muscular, set into long sloping shoulders. Their topline should be proportionately short and level, with a fairly broad chest. The front legs should be well boned and straight. Their hind legs are remarkably powerful for their size with big, wide buttocks, deep thighs and well bent stifles. Their feet should be a good size and well padded with close-knit and well-arched toes. The tail should be of moderate length, upright or with a slight bend.