Scottish Terrier CA
Scottish Terrier CA
Everything you need to know about Scottish Terriers: health, temperament, care, and more
The Scottish Terrier, affectionately known as the "Scottie," is a small but mighty breed with a distinctive appearance and an even more distinctive personality. Originally bred in Scotland to hunt vermin and small game, these fearless terriers have evolved into beloved family companions while retaining their bold, independent spirit.
Scottish Terriers are instantly recognizable by their iconic silhouette: a compact, muscular body, short legs, erect ears, and a distinctive beard and eyebrows. Their confident gait and dignified demeanor have made them favorites among dog lovers worldwide, including several U.S. presidents who have called Scotties their companions.
Scottish Terriers are known for their unique personality traits:
One of the most frequently asked questions about Scottish Terriers is: "Do Scottish Terriers shed?" The good news for prospective owners is that Scottish Terriers are considered a low-shedding breed. Their wiry, double coat sheds minimally compared to many other dog breeds, making them an excellent choice for people with allergies or those who prefer a cleaner home.
However, while Scottish Terriers don't shed much, they do require regular grooming to maintain their coat. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks is recommended, along with regular brushing at home to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy. Many Scottie owners choose to have their dogs hand-stripped to maintain the proper coat texture, though clipping is also an option.
Understanding Scottish Terrier health issues is crucial for any prospective owner. While Scottish Terriers are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 11-13 years, they can be predisposed to certain health conditions. Responsible breeders, like our California-based program, conduct health testing to minimize these risks.
Prevention and Care: Working with a reputable Scottish Terrier breeder in California who conducts health testing on breeding dogs is the best way to minimize health risks. Regular veterinary care, a healthy diet, appropriate exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight all contribute to a long, healthy life for your Scottish Terrier.
Many people compare Scottish Terrier vs Westie (West Highland White Terrier) when choosing a terrier breed. While both are Scottish terrier breeds with some similarities, they have distinct differences:
The choice between Scottish Terrier vs Westie ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a more independent, dignified companion with a classic black coat, a Scottish Terrier might be perfect for you. If you want a slightly more outgoing, energetic white terrier, a Westie could be the better choice.
While we specialize in purebred Scottish Terriers, many people ask about Scottish Terrier mix breeds. Scottish Terrier mixes can combine the Scottie's distinctive traits with characteristics from other breeds. Some common Scottish Terrier mix breeds include:
While Scottish Terrier mix breeds can make wonderful pets, our breeding program focuses exclusively on purebred Scottish Terriers to preserve the breed's unique characteristics and maintain breed standards. If you're interested in a Scottish Terrier mix, we recommend researching reputable breeders or considering adoption from rescue organizations.
Scottish Terriers have moderate exercise needs. Daily walks and playtime are important, but they don't require the extensive exercise that some larger or more energetic breeds need. A couple of 20-30 minute walks per day, combined with some play sessions, will keep most Scotties happy and healthy.
Training a Scottish Terrier requires patience and consistency. Their independent nature means they're not always eager to please, but they are intelligent and can learn quickly when properly motivated. Positive reinforcement methods work best with this breed. Early socialization and puppy training classes are highly recommended.
Scottish Terriers adapt well to various living situations, including apartments, as long as they get adequate exercise. They do well in homes with securely fenced yards where they can explore safely. Due to their hunting heritage, Scotties have a strong prey drive and should be kept on leash or in fenced areas.
Scottish Terriers can be good with children, especially when raised with them from puppyhood. However, they may not tolerate rough handling and are better suited to families with older, respectful children. With other pets, early socialization is key. Scotties can coexist with other dogs but may be territorial. Their strong prey drive means they may chase cats or small animals.
Scottish Terriers are ideal for people who appreciate:
If you're looking for Scottish Terrier puppies for sale in California, it's essential to work with a reputable breeder who prioritizes health, temperament, and breed standards. Our California-based Scottish Terrier breeding program offers healthy, well-socialized puppies with complete health documentation and lifetime support.
Whether you're searching for "Scottish Terrier for sale California" or "Scottish Terrier breeder California," we invite you to learn more about our available puppies and our commitment to this wonderful breed.