Breeds
Scottish Terrier: Temperament, Size, Lifespan & Care
A Scottish Terrier is a confident, dignified, independent little dog with a big personality and a strong sense of its own opinion. Scotties are devoted to their families, alert watchdogs and playful in bursts, but they can be choosy about other dogs and they think before they obey. The wiry coat needs regular stripping or clipping. Here is what to expect on size, lifespan, health, grooming and training.
By Matt GarnettUpdated November 10, 20264 min read2 sources
Scottish Terrier temperament and personality
The AKC rates the Scottish Terrier five out of five for affection with family and as a watchdog, and four out of five for playfulness and barking. Scotties are alert, keen and determined, and many attach most strongly to one or two people.
Their nickname is the diehard, the AKC notes, and a game of tug with a favorite toy shows why: they will not let go until you do. The AKC rates them two out of five with other dogs, among the lower scores, so early socialization and careful introductions matter.
How big do Scottish Terriers get?
The AKC lists the Scottish Terrier at about 10 inches tall, with males weighing 19 to 22 pounds and females 18 to 21 pounds. It is short-legged but substantial, with a beard, leg furnishings and erect ears and tail that make the silhouette instantly recognizable.
The wiry topcoat over a soft, dense undercoat can be black, wheaten or brindle. Their low, solid build means a Scottie is heavier than it looks; keep it lean, and lift it with support under the chest and hindquarters.
Scottish Terrier lifespan and common health issues
The AKC gives a Scottish Terrier lifespan of about 12 years. It recommends that a good breeder discuss what they have seen in their own lines, and notes the parent club, the Scottish Terrier Club of America, supports research and shares breed health information.
The AKC's recommended tests for breeding dogs are a patella evaluation, a DNA test for von Willebrand disease type III (a bleeding disorder) and screening for craniomandibular osteopathy, a jaw bone condition of young dogs. VCA explains that a slipping kneecap often shows as a skip in the step. Ask breeders for those results, and tell your vet the breed before any surgery so bleeding risk can be checked.
Exercise needs
The AKC says Scotties need a good walk and good playtime. They have high energy that they spend in bursts, and chasing a thrown ball or toy works well. All that activity keeps them fit and happy.
Keep them leashed or in a fenced area, since a terrier that spots a squirrel or cat may not come back. Digging is natural, so a designated dig spot or sandpit can save the garden beds.
Scottish Terrier grooming and shedding
The AKC says Scotties need regularly scheduled grooming. Their double coat is ideally hand-stripped, starting when they are young puppies so they get used to it, about once a month once the coat is established, with weekly work in between if you like.
Many pet owners have the coat clipped by a professional groomer instead, which is easier but softens the texture. Shedding is low, two out of five on the AKC scale. Comb the beard and leg furnishings, trim nails and brush the teeth regularly.
Training a Scottish Terrier
The AKC advises keeping training sessions under about 15 minutes, being creative and not repeating exercises the same way every time. The breed is a thinker, and a bored Scottie simply stops responding; the AKC notes farmers kept the dogs that could figure things out.
Use reward-based methods with food and play, and be patient and consistent. Socialize widely with people and well-mannered dogs from puppyhood. A Scottie that understands the rules is a steady, dignified companion.
Are Scottish Terriers good with kids and other pets?
The AKC rates the Scottish Terrier three out of five with young children. Many do well with respectful older children, but may not tolerate rough handling or being chased. Supervise young children and teach them to let the dog come to them.
With other dogs, the AKC rating is two out of five, and terrier prey drive makes small pets such as rodents and rabbits a poor mix. A Scottie raised with a cat may accept it, but introductions should be slow and supervised.
What a Scottish Terrier needs at home
Useful kit includes a stripping knife or clippers, a metal comb and slicker brush for the furnishings, nail clippers, a dog toothbrush, a well-fitted harness and leash, a secure fence, and tough tug and chew toys.
A designated digging area and puzzle feeders give a busy terrier somewhere to put its energy. Book a vet visit soon after bringing your Scottie home and ask about von Willebrand testing and a grooming schedule.
This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.
Common questions
How long do Scottish Terriers live?
The AKC lists a lifespan of about 12 years. Regular vet checks, a lean weight, good dental care and knowing your dog's bleeding-disorder status help a Scottie live a long, healthy life.
How big does a Scottish Terrier get?
The AKC lists about 10 inches tall, with males at 19 to 22 pounds and females at 18 to 21 pounds. Scotties are short-legged but solid, sturdy terriers.
What is a Scottish Terrier's temperament like?
Confident, loyal, independent and alert. Scotties are devoted to their families but can be choosy with other dogs and stubborn in training, so short, varied sessions work best.
Do Scottish Terriers shed?
Very little; the AKC rates shedding two out of five. The wiry coat does need regular hand-stripping or professional clipping to stay healthy and tidy.
Sources we checked
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or injured, contact your veterinarian.
