The Scottish Terrier: A look at the charming dog breed from Scotland.
The Scottish Terrier, also affectionately known as the “Scottie”, is a British dog breed officially recognized by the FCI. With a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years and a height of 25 to 28 cm, the Scottie is a fascinating companion. In this article, we take a look at the history, character and care of this striking dog.
The history of the Scottish Terrier
The roots of the Scottish Terrier go back many centuries and the first breed standards were established around 1880, which still shape the character of this breed today. The Scottie originally comes from the rugged Scottish Highlands, where it was bred as a small, robust and weatherproof dog.
The popularity of the Scottish Terrier, which has not waned over the centuries, is remarkable. In the past, he was a loyal companion of farmers, hunters and gamekeepers on the hunt for badgers and foxes.
Today, he can be found in many families, where he has become a valued member of the family thanks to his learning ability and cheerful nature.
The nature of the Scottish Terrier
The Scottie is characterized by courage, independence and self-reliance. As a hunting dog, it was a great help in the fight against mice and even rats. Despite its robust nature, the Scottish Terrier is also well suited to city dwellings as it is frugal and adaptable.
Keeping them in a city apartment is not an imposition for the quiet terrier. His need for exercise depends on the possibilities of his owner, whereby he enjoys ball and stick games, digging and romping as well as long walks in nature. The terrier shows a natural alertness without barking excessively.
Early and sustained training plays a decisive role in turning the seemingly stubborn Scottie into an easy-going and attentive friend for the whole family. However, he is suspicious of strangers and is not easily touched.
The external appearance of the Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier has a striking appearance. With a height of 25.5 to 28 centimetres and a weight of around 8.5 to 10.5 kilograms, it appears compact and muscular. Its double, dense and hard coat not only provides good protection from the weather, but also emphasizes its characteristic silhouette.
The most common coat color of the Scottie is black, but brindle and wheaten varieties are also bred. Regular grooming, i.e. expertly trimmed every three months and combed and brushed daily, keeps the Scottish Terrier healthy and its coat in top condition.
Conclusion: A lovable companion
All in all, the Scottish Terrier is a fascinating dog with a rich history and a charming personality. Its adaptability to different living conditions makes it a popular companion in many families.
Proper care and training help to ensure that the Scottie is not only a pleasant companion in appearance, but also in behavior. Anyone looking for a loyal and independent four-legged friend will find a loving companion for many years in the Scottish Terrier.
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