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Scottish Terriers

Terrier Group

Independent, confident and dignified

Scottish Terriers

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Breed Overview

Scottish Terriers are unique and charming dogs, known for their distinctive appearance and bold personality. They make great companions for the right owner who understands their specific needs and characteristics.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Small
  • Height About 10 inches at the shoulder
  • Weight 18-22 pounds for males, 18-21 pounds for females
  • Life Span 12-15 years
  • Coat Dense, wiry outer coat with a soft, thick undercoat
  • Color Typically black, but can also be wheaten (pale yellow or fawn) or brindle
  • Grooming Regular grooming is needed to maintain the coat; professional grooming recommended
  • Temperament Independent, confident, and spirited; can be aloof with strangers but loyal to their family
  • Energy Level Moderate
  • Intelligence Highly intelligent but can be stubborn
Health Needs
  • Exercise Moderate; enjoys walks and playtime but doesn't require extensive exercise
  • Trainability Requires consistent, patient training; responds well to positive reinforcement
  • Socialization Important to socialize early to prevent them from becoming overly territorial
  • Grooming Regular grooming is needed to maintain the coat; professional grooming recommended
  • Health Issues Prone to certain health issues like Scottie Cramp, von Willebrand's disease, and certain cancers
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Good with families, best with older children, requires early socialization and training
  • Suitable Living Space Adaptable to apartments or houses, moderate exercise needs, enjoys daily walks

About the Breed

The Scottish Terrier is a breed known for its robust and wiry coat, which requires regular grooming. Despite their small size, they exhibit a large presence, often described as a big dog in a small dog’s body. Their unique look and personality have made them a favorite, even appearing as mascots and in various forms of media.

History of the Breed

Originally bred in Scotland for hunting and vermin control, the Scottish Terrier’s exact origins are somewhat obscured by history. They were grouped with other terriers of Scotland until the 19th century when specific breeds began to be identified. The Scottie we know today was bred to be a formidable hunter of badgers and foxes.

Scotland

Fun Facts About the Scottish Terrier

What To Expect When Caring For a Scottish Terrier

Health

Common Health Issues: Scotties are prone to certain health conditions, including Scottie Cramp, Von Willebrand's disease, and specific types of cancers. Veterinary Care: Regular check-ups are essential for early detection and management of health issues.

Grooming

Coat Care: Their wiry coat needs regular brushing and professional grooming every few months. Nail Trimming: Regular nail trims are required to prevent discomfort and mobility issues.

Exercise

Activity Level: Moderate; daily walks and play sessions are sufficient. Mental Stimulation: They enjoy challenging games and activities that stimulate their minds.

Training

Trainability: Intelligent but can be stubborn; consistent, positive reinforcement methods work best. Socialization: Early and ongoing socialization is crucial for a well-adjusted dog.

Nutrition

Diet: A balanced diet suitable for their age, size, and activity level. Feeding Schedule: Consistent feeding times help with digestion and weight management.

The Scottish Terrier, with its distinct personality and appearance, makes a wonderful companion for those who appreciate its unique characteristics. Proper care, training, and love will ensure a happy and healthy life for this dignified and charming breed.

Scottish Terrier Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

Scottish Terriers are generally hardy but can be predisposed to certain health issues. Awareness and appropriate testing can help in managing their health effectively.

Description: A blood disorder leading to problems with clotting. It can cause excessive bleeding from minor injuries.

Description: The knee cap slips out of place, causing lameness or an abnormal gait.

Description: Scottish Terriers have a higher risk for certain types of cancer, including bladder cancer and mast cell tumors.

Description: A condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones, leading to issues like obesity, lethargy, and skin problems.

Description: They can develop allergies to certain foods, environmental factors, or fleas.

Von Willebrand's Disease

Description: A blood disorder leading to problems with clotting. It can cause excessive bleeding from minor injuries.

Patellar Luxation

Description: The knee cap slips out of place, causing lameness or an abnormal gait.

Cancer

Description: Scottish Terriers have a higher risk for certain types of cancer, including bladder cancer and mast cell tumors.

Hypothyroidism

Description: A condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones, leading to issues like obesity, lethargy, and skin problems.

Allergies

Description: They can develop allergies to certain foods, environmental factors, or fleas.

Ensuring that your Scottish Terrier receives these tests and follows a routine of preventive care can significantly help in maintaining their health and well-being. Always consult with your veterinarian for the best care plan for your pet.

Prescription Medication Assistance for Scottish Terriers

The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Scottish Terrier?

Caring for a Scottish Terrier, like any dog, involves various expenses. The annual cost can vary depending on factors like your location, the dog’s health, and the level of care you choose. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses:

A purebred Scottish Terrier puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

Initial Cost

$1000 - 4000

Potential Additional Costs:

When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Scottish Terrier enthusiasts.

Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

Initial Cost

$200 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

Quality dog food and treats

Estimated Cost

$250 - 700

Potential Additional Costs:

Learn more about the best quality dog food for Scottish Terriers.

Scotties require regular grooming due to their wiry coat.

Estimated Cost

$300 - 700

Potential Additional Costs:

If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

Scottish Terriers require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

Estimate Cost

$200 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your Scottish Terrier's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

Your Scottish Terrier will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

Estimated Cost

$50 - 200

Potential Additional Costs:

Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

Estimated Cost

$500 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

Estimated Cost

$50 - 80

Total Estimated Annual Cost:

$2750 - $8280

It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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