Meet the Scottie: Small Dog, Big Personality
Scottish Terriers—affectionately called Scotties—are bold, loyal, and full of spunky charm. Known as the “Diehards” for their determination and spirit, these little dogs leave a big pawprint on every home (and heart) they enter.
About Scottish Terriers
The Scottish Terrier (often called the Scottie and once known as the Aberdeen Terrier) is one of Scotland’s five native terrier breeds, alongside the Skye, Cairn, Dandie Dinmont, and West Highland White Terriers. Originally grouped with the Skye Terrier, Scotties were bred in the Scottish Highlands to be tough, independent hunters of vermin. Their rugged nature earned them the nickname “Diehard”, given by the First Earl of Dumbarton.
Appearance
Scotties are small but sturdy, with short legs, a compact body, and a confident stance. They carry a distinctive silhouette with erect ears, a wiry outer coat, and longer furnishings on the beard and legs.
- Height: 10–11 in (25–28 cm)
- Weight: 18–22 lbs (8–10 kg)
- Coat: Hard, wiry topcoat with a soft undercoat
- Colors: Black, brindle, or wheaten
Coat & Grooming
The wiry coat protects them from harsh weather and should be hand-stripped or clipped to maintain the classic Scottie look. Their longer beards and leg hair need regular brushing to prevent mats.
Temperament
Scotties are bold, loyal, and independent. While they may seem reserved with strangers, they are deeply devoted to their families—often bonding most closely with one or two people. Their alert nature makes them excellent watchdogs.
Traits to know:
- Confident and self-assured
- Sometimes stubborn, but intelligent
- Feisty and playful, especially as puppies
- Prone to chasing squirrels and digging (a nod to their hunting roots)
Health
Scottish Terriers are generally healthy but can be prone to certain inherited conditions:
- Scottie Cramp: a movement disorder triggered by excitement or stress
- Craniomandibular Osteopathy (“Lion Jaw”): excessive jawbone growth in puppies
- Von Willebrand’s Disease: a bleeding disorder
- Joint and eye issues: such as patellar luxation, cataracts, and glaucoma
Average lifespan: 11–13 years
Cancer in Scotties
Scotties are unfortunately more likely than many breeds to develop certain cancers, especially bladder cancer (transitional cell carcinoma – TCC). Research suggests they are up to 20 times more likely to develop TCC than other breeds.
Early signs include blood in the urine, straining to urinate, or frequent urination. Treatment often involves medication such as Piroxicam, along with supportive care.
In Popular Culture
Scotties have long been beloved companions of famous figures:
- President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Scottie, Fala, is immortalized in a Washington, D.C. monument.
- President George H. W. Bush also owned a Scottie.
- They are featured as a classic playing piece in the board game Monopoly.
Scottish Terriers pack big personality into a small frame—courageous, dignified, and fiercely loyal. No wonder they’ve earned the reputation of being “a big dog in a little body.”
Ed Clark The LIFE Images Collection/Shutterstock
