SCOTTISH TERRIER Breed Standards
The history of the Scottish Terrier is mired in confusion and debate, and the development and recognition of the dog was largely the product of politicking on the part of its human masters. Historically, any terrier tracing its lineage back to Scotland was commonly referred to as a Scottish Terrier; and in the late 19th century, this custom led to a slew of Yorkshires, Skyes and other terriers winning at dog shows under false pretenses. This greatly annoyed the people of Aberdeen, who felt that the dog they had long bred and that was then known as the Aberdeen Terrier ought by right to be called the Scottish Terrier. A series of protests finally led to the drawing up of a definitive standard in 1880, after which time only the terrier from Aberdeen could be called the Scottish Terrier.
The Scottish Terrier was brought to the United States in 1883 and recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885. The dog enjoyed modest popularity in America until 1933, when Franklin D. Roosevelt (and his beloved Scotty, Fala) was elected president and the popularity of the Scotty really took off. To this day, the Scottish Terrier remains a very popular breed, both at dog shows and as a member of the family.
SKILLS: The Scottish Terrier, is a small, compact, short-legged, sturdily-built dog of good bone and substance. His head is long in proportion to his size. He has a hard, wiry, weather-resistant coat and a thick-set, cobby body which is hung between short, heavy legs. These characteristics, joined with his very special keen, piercing, "varminty" expression, and his erect ears and tail are salient features of the breed. The Scottish Terrier's bold, confident, dignified aspect exemplifies power in a small package.
SIZE: The Scottish Terrier should have a thick body and heavy bone. The principal objective must be symmetry and balance without exaggeration. Equal consideration shall be given to height, weight, length of back and length of head. Height at withers for either sex should be about 10 inches. The length of back from withers to set-on of tail should be approximately 11 inches. Generally, a well-balanced Scottish Terrier dog should weigh from 19 to 22 pounds and a bitch from 18 to 21 pounds.
COAT: The Scottish Terrier should have a broken coat. It is a hard, wiry outer coat with a soft, dense undercoat. The coat should be trimmed and blended into the furnishings to give a distinct Scottish Terrier outline. The dog should be presented with sufficient coat so that the texture and density may be determined. The longer coat on the beard, legs and lower body may be slightly softer than the body coat but should not be or appear fluffy. Color - Black, wheaten or brindle of any color. Many black and brindle dogs have sprinklings of white or silver hairs in their coats which are normal and not to be penalized. White can be allowed only on the chest and chin and that to a slight extent only.
CARE REQUIRED: Regular brushing of the harsh wiry coat is important and extra care should be taken when the dog is shedding. Bathe or dry shampoo as necessary. The dog should be professionally trimmed twice a year. The hair on the body is left long, like a skirt, while the hair on the face is lightly trimmed and brushed forward. This breed sheds little to no hair.
CHARACTER: The Scottish Terrier should be alert and spirited but also stable and steady-going. He is a determined and thoughtful dog whose "heads up, tails up" attitude in the ring should convey both fire and control. The Scottish Terrier, while loving and gentle with people, can be aggressive with other dogs.
EXERCISE: Given a yard of reasonable size, the sporty Scottie will exercise itself, but it will happily accompany you for a walk or play session in the park, and delights in fetching sticks and balls.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: This dog is good for apartment living. It is moderately active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Prefers cool climates.
TRAINING: This breed is sensitive to correction. Obedience training must be consistent but persuasive. Do not push this breed too far; never hit a terrier and do not play aggressive games like wrestling and tug-of-war.
