Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers are compact, sturdy terriers known for a distinctive silhouette and a confident, independent personality. Many Scotties are loyal and devoted to their family while being reserved with strangers. They can be determined and may not always be eager to please, so consistent, positive training and firm rules work best. Their wiry coat needs regular grooming to maintain comfort and shape. With routine exercise and enrichment, Scottish Terriers can be dignified companions with classic terrier spirit.
The Scottish Terrier is a small dog in the Terrier group, known for Independent, Loyal, Confident. Adults typically weigh 18-22 lbs and stand 10 in, with a lifespan around 12-13 years.
Quick facts
- Group: Terrier
- Size: small
- Lifespan: 12-13 years
- Weight: 18-22 lbs
- Height: 10 in
- Temperament: Independent, Loyal, Confident, Alert
Temperament & day-to-day life
Temperament helps you predict what daily life with this breed may feel like. The Scottish Terrier is often described as Independent, Loyal, Confident, Alert. Individual dogs vary, but these traits are a solid starting point when you’re planning training, enrichment, and routines.
If you’re researching this breed because you’re trying to identify your own dog, use temperament as supporting evidence—not the final verdict. Compare size, proportions, and behavior patterns, then confirm with a photo using the AI dog breed identifier.
Training & exercise
Terriers were bred to pursue vermin and work with determination. Many are confident, persistent, and surprisingly quick learners when motivated.
Consistency matters: set rules early, reward calm focus, and avoid letting small habits become big ones. Keep training fun to maintain engagement.
Terriers often benefit from energetic play and problem-solving games. A bored terrier will invent its own activities—usually the loud kind.
History
Scottish Terriers originated in Scotland as working terriers used to hunt vermin. Over time, they became well known as companions and show dogs for their iconic look and character.
Care tips
Good care is less about perfection and more about consistency. Start with simple routines you can keep up—daily movement, a predictable feeding plan, and regular check-ins for ears, nails, and skin.
- Provide daily exercise and enrichment; terriers do best with outlets.
- Train with patience and rewards; independence is typical.
- Groom regularly; coats may need stripping or clipping.
- Start socialization early to build polite behavior with people and dogs.
- Teach leash manners—some are reactive to small animals.
Similar breeds to compare
Many breeds share similar silhouettes and features. If you’re comparing AI results or deciding between breeds, it helps to read a few profiles side by side. Common look-alikes and close cousins to the Scottish Terrier include West Highland White Terrier, Cairn Terrier, Norfolk Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer.
When you compare, focus on structure (muzzle length, ear set, body proportions) as much as coat color. Then confirm by looking at temperament and daily care needs.
FAQ
How big do Scottish Terriers get?
Most adult Scottish Terriers fall around 18-22 lbs and stand 10 in. Genetics, diet, and activity level all influence where an individual dog lands within that range.
How long do Scottish Terriers live?
The typical lifespan is 12-13 years. Preventive vet care, healthy weight, and consistent daily exercise are some of the biggest factors that support longevity.
What is the Scottish Terrier temperament like?
Many owners describe this breed as Independent, Loyal, Confident, Alert. Early socialization and reward-based training help those traits show up as calm confidence at home and on walks.
How can I identify a Scottish Terrier from a photo?
Upload a clear photo (ideally with the full body visible) to our dog breed identifier. Use the results as a starting point, then compare likely matches in the breed directory.