Scottish Terrier Breeds: the Scottie & Its Cousins
Explore Scottish terrier breeds including the iconic Scottie, its history, temperament, health risks, costs, and how it compares to similar terrier breeds.
What Exactly Are Scottish Terrier Breeds?
When people search for "Scottish terrier breeds," they're usually thinking of one dog: the Scottish Terrier (or Scottie). But Scotland actually produced a whole family of short-legged, hardy terriers bred to hunt vermin across rugged Highland terrain. The Scottish Terrier is the oldest and most recognizable of these, but understanding the broader group — including the Cairn Terrier, West Highland White Terrier, and Skye Terrier — gives you a much clearer picture of what makes the Scottie tick.
This guide focuses primarily on the Scottish Terrier as the flagship breed, while comparing it to its closest Scottish cousins so you can make an informed decision about which one fits your household.
Origin Story: From Highland Vermin Hunter to White House Resident
The Scottish Terrier's roots stretch back centuries, though the breed as we recognize it today was formalized in the late 1800s. Here's the timeline most breed historians agree on:
Scottish Terrier Origin Timeline
- Pre-1500s: Short-legged, wiry-coated terriers existed across the Scottish Highlands and Islands, used by farmers and crofters to hunt foxes, badgers, and rats. These dogs were grouped loosely as "Scotch terriers" with no formal breed distinction.
- 1500s–1700s: References to a distinct Scottish Terrier-type dog appear in writings, including a description by Bishop John Lesley in 1578 of a small, hardy dog used for hunting in Scotland.
- 1879: Captain Gordon Murray and S.E. Shirley began selectively breeding dogs from the Aberdeen area, establishing what became the foundation of the modern Scottish Terrier. Early dogs were sometimes called "Aberdeen Terriers."
- 1882: The first Scottish Terrier breed standard was written. Three dogs — Splinter II, Tartan, and Bonaccord — are considered the foundation sires of the modern breed.
- 1885: The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Scottish Terrier, making it one of the earliest AKC-registered breeds. The first registered Scottie was named "Prince Charlie."
- 1930s–1940s: The breed surged in popularity in the United States. President Franklin D. Roosevelt's Scottie, Fala, became arguably the most famous dog in America.
- Present day: The Scottish Terrier ranks around #58 in AKC registration popularity (as of recent data). The breed remains beloved but is no longer among the most commonly owned dogs in the US.
The Scottie was bred to work independently — crawling into rocky dens to confront badgers and foxes without human direction. That history of autonomous decision-making is exactly why modern Scotties are so famously stubborn and self-assured. They weren't bred to look to humans for guidance; they were bred to figure things out themselves.
Physical Profile: Measurements, Coat, and Defining Features
| Weight (Male) | 19–22 lb (8.6–10 kg) |
| Weight (Female) | 18–21 lb (8.2–9.5 kg) |
| Height at Shoulder | 10 inches (25 cm) — very consistent |
| Body Length | Approximately 11–12 inches from chest to rear (cobby, compact build) |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Coat Type | Double coat — wiry outer (2+ inches), soft dense undercoat |
| Colors | Black, wheaten (pale cream to golden), brindle (any shade) |
| Energy Level | Moderate — 30–45 minutes/day of structured activity |
| Grooming | High — hand-stripping every 6–8 weeks or clipping every 4–6 weeks |
| AKC Group | Terrier Group (recognized 1885) |
| FCI Recognition | Group 3, Section 2 (Small-sized Terriers) — Standard #73 |
What makes the Scottie visually unmistakable:
- The silhouette: A long, low-slung body with a deep chest that drops below the elbow, a level topline, and a thick, carrot-shaped tail carried upright. The overall outline is rectangular, not square.
- The head: Disproportionately long for the body — the skull and muzzle are roughly equal in length. Prominent eyebrows and a full beard give the Scottie its signature "serious old gentleman" expression.
- The ears: Small, pricked, and carried erect with pointed tips, set well up on the skull and close together.
- The legs: Short and heavily boned. Front feet are larger than rear feet, an adaptation for digging into burrows.
- The gait: Despite short legs, Scotties have a surprisingly free and fluid movement with good reach and drive — they can cover ground faster than their silhouette suggests.
Temperament: What Surprises New Scottie Owners
If you've only met Labrador Retrievers or Golden Retrievers, a Scottish Terrier will recalibrate your expectations of what a dog relationship looks like. Here's what experienced Scottie owners wish they'd known before bringing one home:
The Independence Factor
Scotties are not biddable dogs in the way most people understand the term. They can learn commands — and many excel in obedience and rally — but they will always pause to evaluate whether compliance serves their interests. This isn't stupidity or defiance; it's a breed that was selected for autonomous problem-solving. A Scottie who ignores your "come" command isn't broken — it's doing exactly what 400 years of breeding designed it to do: make its own decisions.
The Sensitivity Paradox
Despite their tough exterior and bold demeanor, Scotties are deeply sensitive dogs. Harsh corrections, raised voices, or inconsistent handling can cause a Scottie to shut down entirely. They respond to calm, firm, positive reinforcement training — and they hold grudges. A Scottie who has been unfairly punished may avoid that person for days. According to the American Kennel Club breed standard, the ideal Scottie is "alert, quick, and keen of expression" with a "confident, dignified" bearing.
The Digging Instinct
This is non-negotiable and will not be trained away. Scotties were bred to dig into earth to reach prey. If you have a garden, expect excavation. If you have a fenced yard, check regularly for tunnels under the fence line. Many Scottie owners reinforce fence bottoms with hardware cloth buried 12–18 inches underground or install concrete footer barriers.
Prey Drive and Small Animals
Scotties have a high prey drive directed at small, fast-moving animals. Squirrels, rabbits, and neighborhood cats will trigger a chase response. Co-habitation with cats is possible if the Scottie is raised with them from puppyhood, but introductions should always be supervised. Never trust a Scottie off-leash in an unfenced area — their recall reliability around prey is extremely low regardless of training level.
The Watchdog Instinct
Scotties are alert and vocal. They will announce visitors, delivery drivers, and unusual sounds. They are not excessive barkers without cause, but they are not quiet dogs. They also tend to be aloof with strangers and may take time to warm up to new people — this is normal breed temperament, not poor socialization.
Health Concerns: Breed-Specific Risks You Need to Know
The Scottish Terrier carries several breed-specific health predispositions that distinguish it from the general dog population. Responsible breeders screen for these conditions, but even well-bred Scotties may develop them. Always consult your veterinarian about breed-appropriate screening and preventive care.
| Condition | Description | Prevalence/Risk | Screening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scottie Cramp | An inherited neuromuscular disorder causing muscle stiffness, arching of the spine, and stiff-legged gait during exercise or excitement. Not painful, not progressive. | Breed-specific — almost exclusively seen in Scotties. Estimated to affect a small but significant percentage of the population. | No genetic test available. Diagnosis by clinical observation. Serotonin antagonist medications (e.g., fluoxetine) may help in severe cases. |
| Transitional Cell Carcinoma (TCC) | Aggressive bladder cancer. Scotties have an estimated 18–20x higher risk than the general dog population. This is the single most important health concern for the breed. | One study found approximately 15% of Scotties may develop TCC in their lifetime. Typically diagnosed in dogs 9+ years old. | Regular urinalysis. BRAF mutation urine test (Cadet™ BRAF) can detect early markers. Ultrasound screening recommended annually after age 7. |
| Craniomandibular Osteopathy (CMO) | Abnormal bone growth along the jaw and skull, causing pain and difficulty eating. Typically appears between 3–8 months of age. | Autosomal recessive inheritance. Most common in Scottish Terriers and West Highland White Terriers. A genetic test is available. | DNA test available through AKC-recognized labs. X-rays for diagnosis. Often self-limiting after skeletal maturity. |
| Von Willebrand Disease (vWD) | An inherited bleeding disorder caused by deficient clotting protein. Type I (mild) and Type III (severe) have both been documented in Scotties. | Carrier frequency varies by line. Type III is rare but life-threatening. | DNA test available. Breeding stock should be tested. Affected dogs require careful management around surgeries. |
| Patellar Luxation | Kneecap slipping out of position, ranging from occasional (Grade I) to permanent dislocation (Grade IV). | Moderate prevalence in the breed. Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) data shows roughly 3–5% of tested Scotties affected. | OFA patella evaluation. Breeding stock should be cleared. |
| Skin Allergies / Atopy | Environmental or food-related allergic reactions causing itching, hot spots, and ear infections. | Common in the breed, as with many terriers. Estimated 10–15% of Scotties experience chronic skin issues. | Veterinary dermatology workup. Elimination diets, allergy testing, and medications like oclacitinib (Apoquel) or lokivetmab (Cytopoint). |
Special Care Requirements: Grooming, Exercise, and Daily Life
Grooming: The Scottie Coat Is a Commitment
The Scottish Terrier's wiry double coat requires one of two maintenance approaches:
- Hand-stripping (show coat method): The dead outer coat is pulled out by hand or with a stripping knife every 6–8 weeks, allowing new wiry hair to grow in. This preserves the coat's texture and color. Professional hand-stripping costs $80–$150 per session depending on your area.
- Clipping (pet coat method): The coat is clipped short with electric clippers every 4–6 weeks. This is cheaper ($45–$75 per groom) and easier but softens the coat texture over time and can cause the color to fade, especially in black Scotties who may turn grayish.
Either way, budget $500–$1,200 per year for professional grooming. Between groomings, brush the coat 2–3 times per week with a slicker brush and comb through the furnishings (the longer hair on the legs and beard) to prevent matting.
Exercise: Moderate but Non-Negotiable
Scotties need 30–45 minutes of structured activity daily. This typically breaks down as:
- Two leash walks of 15–20 minutes each
- Indoor play sessions (tug, puzzle toys, hide-and-seek)
- Supervised yard time (always fenced — never trust a Scottie off-leash)
Scotties are not endurance athletes. Their short legs and barrel chests make them unsuitable for long-distance running or hiking. They also tend to overheat in warm weather — avoid exercise when temperatures exceed 80°F (27°C) and always provide shade and water.
Training: What Works and What Doesn't
Only positive reinforcement, force-free training methods should be used with Scotties. These dogs shut down under pressure and do not respond to aversive tools like shock collars, prong collars, or alpha rolls. Here's what does work:
- High-value food rewards: Scotties are typically food-motivated. Use small pieces of freeze-dried liver, chicken, or cheese for training sessions.
- Short sessions: 5–10 minutes, 2–3 times per day. Scotties bore easily with repetition.
- Choice-based training: Give your Scottie options and reward the choice you want. This works with their independent nature rather than against it.
- Patient socialization: Expose your Scottie puppy to diverse people, environments, sounds, and surfaces between 8–16 weeks. Don't force interactions — let the puppy observe at its own pace.
Scottish Terrier Care Checklist
- ☐ Professional grooming every 4–8 weeks (depending on method chosen)
- ☐ Brushing 2–3x per week between groom sessions
- ☐ Daily ear checks and weekly cleaning (drop-eared dogs are prone to infections — Scottie ears need airflow monitoring)
- ☐ Teeth brushing 3–5x per week (small breeds are prone to periodontal disease)
- ☐ Nail trims every 2–3 weeks
- ☐ 30–45 minutes daily exercise (leash walks + play)
- ☐ Secure fencing with dig-proof bottom reinforcement
- ☐ Annual vet screening with breed-specific focus (bladder screening after age 7, patella checks, dental evaluation)
- ☐ Avoid lawn chemicals and known TCC risk factors
- ☐ Heartworm, flea, and tick prevention year-round (consult your vet for product selection)
How the Scottish Terrier Compares to Similar Breeds
If you're considering a Scottie, you may also be looking at other small terriers. Here's how the Scottie stacks up against its closest relatives and popular alternatives:
| Trait | Scottish Terrier | Cairn Terrier | West Highland White Terrier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 18–22 lb | 13–14 lb | 15–20 lb |
| Temperament | Dignified, independent, reserved with strangers | Cheerful, outgoing, more biddable | Confident, friendly, more social than Scottie |
| Trainability | Moderate — requires patience and creativity | Moderate-High — more willing to please | Moderate — eager but still terrier-stubborn |
| Grooming | High (hand-stripping or clipping) | Moderate (hand-stripping or clipping) | High (frequent grooming, prone to staining) |
| Bark Level | Moderate — alerts but not constant | Moderate-High — more vocal overall | Moderate-High |
| Good With Kids | Best with older, respectful children (8+) | Good with gentle children | Good with gentle children |
| TCC Risk | Very High (18–20x general population) | Elevated (also predisposed) | Elevated (also predisposed) |
| Puppy Cost Range | $1,800–$3,500 | $1,200–$2,500 | $1,500–$3,000 |
Bottom line: If you want a more outgoing, slightly easier-to-train Scottish terrier type, the Cairn Terrier or Westie may be a better fit — especially for first-time terrier owners. If you value the Scottie's dignified personality and iconic silhouette, there's no substitute, but go in with realistic expectations about independence and health monitoring.
Availability, Breeder Guidance, and Costs
How Rare Is the Scottish Terrier Today?
The Scottie is not endangered, but it's far from common. The AKC typically registers roughly 2,000–3,000 Scottish Terriers per year in the United States. Compare that to the Labrador Retriever (over 100,000 registrations annually) and you get a sense of scale. Finding a puppy often requires joining a breeder's waitlist — expect to wait 6–18 months for a well-bred Scottie puppy from a health-tested line.
Where to Find a Responsible Breeder
Start with the Scottish Terrier Club of America (STCA), which maintains a breeder referral list and enforces a code of ethics. Key indicators of a responsible Scottie breeder:
- Health-tests breeding stock for CMO (DNA test), patellas (OFA), and eyes (CERF/OFA ophthalmologist exam)
- Can discuss TCC risk openly and shares what is known about their lines' cancer history
- Raises puppies in the home with early neurological stimulation (ENS) and early socialization protocols
- Offers a written health guarantee and a take-back clause (will take the dog back at any point in its life if you cannot keep it)
- Asks you detailed questions about your lifestyle, home, and experience level
- Does not have puppies available year-round — most responsible Scottie breeders produce 1–2 litters per year
Cost Breakdown: First Year With a Scottish Terrier
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Puppy purchase (from responsible breeder) | $1,800–$3,500 |
| Initial vet visits (puppy vaccine series, exam) | $400–$700 |
| Spay/neuter | $300–$600 |
| Grooming (6–8 sessions/year) | $400–$1,000 |
| Food (high-quality small-breed kibble or balanced diet) | $300–$500 |
| Supplies (crate, leash, harness, bowls, toys, bed) | $200–$400 |
| Preventive medications (heartworm, flea/tick) | $200–$400 |
| Training classes (puppy socialization + basic obedience) | $150–$400 |
| Pet insurance (optional but recommended) | $400–$700/year |
| Total First-Year Estimate | $4,150–$8,200 |
Ongoing annual costs (after the first year) typically range from $2,000–$4,000 depending on grooming choices, preventive care, and any emerging health issues. Given the TCC risk, pet insurance is strongly recommended — look for policies with no upper payout limits and that cover cancer treatment.
Breeder Red Flags
- Puppies always available or multiple litters at once
- No health testing documentation (or vague claims like "vet checked" without OFA/DNA results)
- Prices significantly below $1,500 (may indicate a backyard breeder or puppy mill)
- Unwillingness to let you visit the facility and meet the dam
- No contract or health guarantee
- Selling puppies before 8–10 weeks of age
Adoption is also an option. The Scottish Terrier Club of America operates a rescue network, and breed-specific rescues occasionally have adult Scotties available. Adoption fees typically range from $300–$600 and include veterinary care, spay/neuter, and behavioral assessment.
Is the Scottish Terrier Right for Your Family?
Good Fit If You:
- Have prior dog ownership experience (especially with terriers or independent breeds)
- Appreciate a dog with a strong personality and don't need constant physical affection
- Have a securely fenced yard or live in an area with good leash-walking infrastructure
- Can commit to regular grooming appointments
- Have older children (8+) who understand how to interact respectfully with dogs
- Are prepared for long-term health monitoring, especially bladder cancer screening in later years
Think Twice If You:
- Are a first-time dog owner (consider a Cairn Terrier or Westie as an easier entry point into Scottish terrier breeds)
- Want a highly obedient, instantly responsive dog
- Have very young children who may handle the dog roughly
- Have cats or small pets and cannot manage careful, gradual introductions
- Cannot budget $2,000–$4,000+ annually for ongoing care
- Live in an apartment with thin walls and noise-sensitive neighbors
Frequently Asked Questions About Scottish Terrier Breeds
Are Scottish Terriers hypoallergenic?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but Scotties are often considered a better choice for allergy sufferers because their wiry coat sheds minimally and produces less dander than many breeds. However, individual reactions vary — spend time with a Scottie before committing to see how your allergies respond.
Do Scottish Terriers get along with other dogs?
Scotties can be dog-selective, particularly with dogs of the same sex. Early socialization helps, but many Scotties prefer being the only dog in the household. If adding a second dog, opposite-sex pairings tend to work best. Scotties generally do well with dogs they were raised alongside.
How long do Scottish Terriers live?
The typical lifespan is 12–15 years, with some individuals reaching 16 or 17. The primary lifespan-limiting factor in the breed is cancer, particularly transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder. Regular veterinary screening can help catch issues early.
Are Scottish Terriers good apartment dogs?
They can be, provided they get adequate daily exercise and mental stimulation. Their moderate size is apartment-friendly, but their barking may be an issue in buildings with thin walls. They do not require a large yard, but they do need daily leash walks and access to a secure area for off-leash play.
What's the difference between a Scottish Terrier and a Schnauzer?
While both are wiry-coated, compact dogs with prominent facial furnishings, they are entirely different breeds with different temperaments. The Miniature Schnauzer is more outgoing, more biddable, and generally easier to train. Schnauzers are in the Terrier Group (AKC) but originated in Germany, not Scotland. Scotties are heavier-boned relative to their size and more independent in temperament.
Why are Scottish Terriers associated with the game Monopoly?
The Scottie is one of the original game tokens in Monopoly (along with the racecar, thimble, and battleship). It has consistently been one of the most popular token choices among players, cementing the breed's place in American pop culture. The token was introduced in the 1935 edition of the game.
How do I find Scottish Terrier rescue dogs?
Start with the Scottish Terrier Club of America's rescue page, which coordinates breed-specific rescue efforts across the United States. You can also search Petfinder.com filtering by breed. Rescue Scotties may come with behavioral or medical histories that require patience, but many make wonderful companions in the right home.
The information in this article is for educational purposes and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for breed-specific health screening recommendations and before making decisions about your dog's care.
Beth Carrasco
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
