Scottish Terriers are small dogs with a presence that somehow exceeds their size. They are dignified, independent, occasionally stubborn, and deeply loyal to their person in a reserved, non-demonstrative way. They do not beg for attention. They grant it, on their schedule. This is either enormously appealing or faintly maddening depending entirely on your personality.
They Are Not Golden Retrievers and Don't Want to Be
Scotties were bred to work independently underground, making decisions without instruction. This is still how they operate. Training works, but you are not training a dog that inherently wants to please — you are training a dog with strong opinions that can be persuaded by the right incentives, consistently applied. Positive reinforcement, patience, short sessions, high-value rewards. Expect occasional negotiation. Consider it a feature.
Common Health Conditions
- Scottie cramp: A unique breed-specific condition where stress or exercise triggers temporary muscle cramping — arching of the spine, goose-stepping gait, falling. Episodes resolve within minutes and don't cause lasting harm, but can be alarming if unexpected. There is no treatment required for mild cases; severe cases can be managed with medication. Genetic testing is available.
- Von Willebrand Disease: A clotting disorder causing prolonged bleeding. Genetic testing available; responsible breeders test. Signs: prolonged bleeding from wounds or during surgery. Inform any vet of vWD status before procedures.
- Cancer: Scottish Terriers have one of the highest cancer rates of any breed — bladder transitional cell carcinoma in particular occurs at significantly elevated rates compared to other breeds. Signs of bladder cancer: blood in urine, straining to urinate, frequent small urinations. Annual urinalysis from age 6 is worthwhile given this risk.
- Craniomandibular osteopathy (CMO): A condition where abnormal bone forms in the jaw of puppies, causing pain when eating. Usually resolves by 12 months. Signs: reluctance to eat, jaw pain. Genetic testing available.
Exercise and Grooming
Scotties need moderate exercise — 45-60 minutes daily. They are sturdy and enjoy outdoor activity but are not high-endurance athletes. Their distinctive wiry coat requires hand-stripping twice yearly for correct texture, or clipping every 6-8 weeks for pet owners who prefer low-maintenance grooming. The beard and eyebrows need particular attention — they mat without brushing a few times weekly.
Scottish Terrier Care Summary
- Buy from parents tested for vWD, Scottie cramp, and CMO.
- Inform all vets of vWD status before any surgical procedure.
- Annual urinalysis from age 6 — bladder cancer early detection.
- Professional groom every 6-8 weeks; brush beard and eyebrows weekly.
- Consistent positive reinforcement training — independent breed, needs incentive not pressure.
Track your Scottie's health calendar and vaccine reminders on the Woofio Scottish Terrier care page.