As hard to believe as it may seem, Scottish Terriers, as small as they are, were originally bred to hunt and kill vermin in the rocky terrains of Scotland. Yes, these little, solidly-built dogs with distinctive eyebrows and mustaches were fierce hunters! Now that’s an interesting fact that not many people might know.
From their history, you’d easily think Scottish Terriers are a pretty strong and resilient breed, requiring less maintenance compared to their peers. But, is that really the case? Let’s delve into the world of Scottish Terriers and figure out if they truly are a high maintenance breed or if they just have a misunderstood reputation.
The question of whether a Scottish Terrier is a high maintenance dog or not does not have a broad sweep answer. Some parts of owning a Scottie are easy peasy lemon squeezy. However, there are other aspects of their care that may have you twisting and turning like a roller coaster. Let’s explore both sides to give you a clearer picture.
First, the easy parts. Scottish terriers are known to be fiercely loyal to their owners. This love and loyalty make them great companions and their small size makes them perfect for either apartment living or a house with a yard. Unlike other small breeds, Scotties aren’t known to be excessive barkers. Sure, they’ll sound an alarm when they spot a squirrel or a stranger at your house, but they aren’t going to yap your ear off for no reason.
Moreover, Scottish Terriers are not overactive dogs demanding lots of exercise to keep them healthy and happy. Generally, a moderate amount of daily physical and mental stimulation will keep your Scottie satisfied. This means a good walk every day along with some playtime and interaction at home should be enough for your rugged little Scottie.
It’s also important to note that Scotties are not typically prone to separation anxiety. They are quite independent and content with their own company. This means that they are usually fine being left alone for a few hours while you run errands or go to work. It doesn’t mean they prefer being by themselves all the time, but unlike some of their canine brethren, they won’t typically howl the house down or destroy your slippers if you leave them alone.
This all sounds wonderful, doesn’t it? But wait, there is another side to this coin.
Scottish Terriers have a double coat that requires a decent amount of grooming to keep it healthy, clean, and looking fantastic. Their coat is unique, with a wiry and weather-resistant outer coat and a soft undercoat. They shed minimally but will need clipping or stripping every few months to maintain their distinctive shape. Grooming a Scottie is not just essential for their appearance, but also their health. Therefore, if you’re a potential Scottie owner, prepare to do some homework on proper dog grooming or budget for regular appointments with a professional dog groomer.
Training a Scottish Terrier can also be a bit challenging. They are intelligent dogs with a very independent spirit, which means they can be somewhat stubborn and difficult to train at times. They’d prefer being the boss and making their own decisions rather than following orders. Therefore, you need a lot of patience, consistency, and a sense of humor when training a Scottie.
Additionally, Scotties can be a little ornery around other dogs and pets. They have a strong prey drive and can be dog-aggressive. Early socialization is vital for them. If they aren’t properly socialized, they can be unwilling to back down from a fight even with a much bigger dog, which can lead to trouble.
Health wise, they are known to suffer from several breed-specific conditions like Scottie Cramp, Von Willebrand’s Disease, and certain types of cancers. It’s important to ensure you’re getting your puppy from a reputable breeder who screens for these conditions. Regular vet visits are crucial for early detection and management of these health problems.
The world of Scottish Terriers is an interesting one, filled with a noble and loyal dog breed that’s got a character capable of filling hearts with warmth. As mentioned before, whether a Scottie is high maintenance or not is subjective and depends on how you view their particular needs. You need the right balance between understanding their independent nature, covering their grooming needs, and being patient during their training sessions.
If you’re someone who appreciates the unique personality and distinctive looks of a Scottish Terrier, and if you’re ready to respect their spirited nature, then you’ll likely find they’re well worth whatever work they require. After all, having a loyal, independent, and adorable ‘Scottie’ as your companion surely seems to outweigh any potential challenges.
