Scottish Terrier
Breed Profile
The actual origin of a breed as old as the Scottish Terrier still needs to be elucidated. The first written account by Don Leslie about a dog of a similar description to the Scottish Terrier goes back to 1436, during the History of Scotland 1436–1561. Scotties were originally bred to hunt and kill vermin on farms and to hunt badgers and foxes in the Highlands of Scotland.
Temperament
Scotties are even more territorial, alert, courageous, and feisty than other terrier breeds. The breed is known to be independent and confident, playful, smart and has received the nickname the ‘Diehard’ because of its robust nature and determination.
Color & Coat
Coat: The Scottish Terrier typically dons a hard, wiry outer coat with a soft, dense undercoat. The coat needs to be trimmed and blended into the furnishings to give a distinct Scottish Terrier outline.
Color: The color should be dark brown or nearly black, the darker the better.
Health
Two genetic health concerns seen include von Willebrand disease (vWD) and craniomandibular osteopathy (CMO). Also, Scottie cramp, patellar luxation and cerebellar abiotrophy are also sometimes seen in this breed. Common eye conditions seen in a variety of breeds, include cataracts. Moreover, glaucoma can appear in Scotties as they age.