Scottish Terrier: Temperament, Coat and Everyday Care

A Scottie suits a calm household that likes an independent, loyal and dignified small dog. They are devoted to their own people, often reserved with strangers, and can be single-minded. The wiry coat and beard need regular brushing and professional trimming or hand-stripping.

A black Scottish Terrier with a neat beard and eyebrows standing on a garden path — Dignified, determined and very Scottish.

Breed-standard figures; individual dogs vary.

Scottish Terrier at a glance
Height	About 10–11 inches (25–28 cm)
Weight	About 18–23 lb (8.5–10.5 kg)
Lifespan	Over 10 years
Coat	Wiry outer coat with beard and furnishings; regular grooming
Exercise	Up to an hour a day
Bred for	Hunting vermin in the Scottish Highlands

Who a Scottie Suits

Scotties are loyal, brave and often a one-family dog. They suit adults and families with older children who respect their space.

They are a harder fit for homes with small pets, busy households wanting a social butterfly, or owners expecting quick obedience.

Training a Determined Terrier

Short, reward-based sessions work best; harshness backfires with this proud breed. Socialize puppies widely with calm people and dogs, and practice recall on a long line.

Coat, Beard and Furnishings

Brush and comb several times a week, especially the beard and the longer leg and belly hair, where tangles form. Most pet Scotties are trimmed by a groomer every couple of months; hand-stripping keeps the harsh texture. Wipe the beard after meals.

Gear for a Scottie

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A slicker brush and metal comb handle the furnishings, and a stripping knife helps if you learn to hand-strip. A small towel by the bowl tidies the beard, and a long line helps with recall.

Health: What to Ask the Breeder and Your Vet

The Royal Kennel Club's breed page lists no specific screening tests for the Scottish Terrier. Ask the breeder what checks the parents have had, and keep up routine vet visits, including a check of any lumps you find while grooming.

Book a check-up soon after your dog comes home, keep it lean, and ask your vet about vaccinations, neutering and a parasite prevention plan for where you live.

Worming, flea and tick products and any medicines: see your vet or a pet supply store with trained staff. They can tell you what suits your dog.

Frequently Asked Questions

Proud little dogs, practical questions.

Are Scottish Terriers good with children?

With older, respectful children, often yes. They don't enjoy rough handling.

Do Scotties shed?

Not much, but the coat needs regular brushing and trimming.

Are Scotties easy to train?

They are clever but independent. Short, positive sessions work best.

Are Scotties good apartment dogs?

They can be, with daily walks and some barking management.