by Annalyn Andriyenko

Created on: November 04, 2009

The Scottish terrier is a very comedic looking dog! It's very small and stout and looks as though it has a beard, giving it a somewhat old man appearance. This definitely adds to its appeal as a pet, for looking so oddly cute and minute. They are very unique and one of its kind which makes them a well known breed across the globe. Scottish terriers are a very appealing and amusing dog to have around the house, especially if you are more inclined to a smaller breed.

This dog, as the name suggest did originate from Scotland as well as its cousins the Dinmont and the Dandie. They are very small and petite looking only ranging up to 10 inches and weighing at 20 pounds or less. They have a distinctive long snout with long tuffs of fur hanging from it, which gives them the old man look! Their body is muscular for being so small and they have stout tails that stick up in the back. Their ears are pointy and they have broad chests with tiny legs, but with somewhat large paws.

Many people associate this breed with only being black but actually, they are brown colorings and even white! White wheaten Scottish terriers are a bit more rare and harder to come across. Their coat itself is somewhat wiry feeling although it looks soft, it's quite thick and tough. Their coat is actually water resistant, as is their undercoat. It is also quite shaggy and can get into their face quite easily, it's best to trim them up a bit if it gets a tad too long!

Unfortunately Scotties have a tendency to develop certain types of cancers much easier than other purebred dogs. This is especially in their bladder, they are actually twenty times more susceptible into getting bladder cancer and other bladder problems. Besides this, they can live up to sixteen years!

Scotties may not look it, but they are very territorial and are great watch dogs for families despite their size, because of their loud bark! They are very stubborn and can act as though they own the house, so it is best to train them earlier on before this type of attitude can grow and develop on its own. Many can be snippy to strangers but not all, there are also docile Scotties that love attention from everyone, you just never know what type of Scottie you'd get since they're so versatile.

Scottish terriers are a very interesting breed and are a definite recommended pet.

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