Aberdeen Terrier
Breed Description

The Scottish Terrier is recognized internationally under several names, with regional and historical variations reflecting the breed's rich heritage. The official designation used by major kennel clubs worldwide is Scottish Terrier, though the breed has accumulated numerous affectionate nicknames and alternate designations throughout its history.

Among the most common alternate names are Aberdeen Terrier, reflecting the breed's strong association with Aberdeen, Scotland, where it was particularly popular during the breed's early development. The endearing nickname Scottie has become widely used as an informal designation, especially in casual conversation and popular culture. Less commonly, the breed may be referred to as the Scotch Terrier in some older texts, though this usage has largely fallen out of favor in modern times.

Historical records from the nineteenth century sometimes list these dogs under the broader category of Skye Terriers, as several Scottish terrier breeds were initially grouped together before distinct breed standards were established. In Scotland itself, regional variations in dialect produced names like Aberdeen Dog or simply Terrier when the breed's origin was understood from context. The breed's dignified bearing and distinctive silhouette have also earned it poetic descriptors throughout the years, contributing to its mystique as one of Scotland's most emblematic canine representatives.

The Scottish Terrier enjoys official recognition from all major international kennel clubs and maintains a strong presence in the organized dog fancy worldwide. Each organization registers the breed under its official designation and maintains specific standards for conformation, temperament, and breeding practices.

Major Kennel Club Recognition:

• American Kennel Club (AKC): "Scottish Terrier" - Recognized since 1885 in the Terrier Group. Visit www.akc.org
• United Kennel Club (UKC): "Scottish Terrier" - Registered in the Terrier Group. Visit www.ukcdogs.com
• Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI): "Scottish Terrier" - Classified in Group 3 (Terriers), Section 2 (Small-sized Terriers). Visit www.fci.be
• The Kennel Club (UK): "Scottish Terrier" - Listed in the Terrier Group. Visit www.thekennelclub.org.uk
• Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): "Scottish Terrier" - Recognized in the Terrier Group. Visit www.ckc.ca

The Scottish Terrier Club of America serves as the official national breed club in the United States, founded in 1900, and works closely with the AKC to preserve breed type and promote responsible breeding practices. The club maintains comprehensive breed standards, organizes specialty shows, and coordinates rescue efforts nationwide.

Breed standards across organizations emphasize the Scottish Terrier's distinctive silhouette, characterized by a rectangular outline, substantial bone for its size, and the iconic furnishings on the legs, lower body, and face that create its recognizable profile. The standard calls for a dog that appears sturdy and powerful despite its small stature, with a confident, determined expression that reflects the breed's original working purpose as a vermin hunter in the Scottish Highlands.

In conformation competition, Scottish Terriers are shown in the Terrier Group and compete for Best of Breed before advancing to group competition. The breed has achieved considerable success in the show ring historically, including multiple Best in Show wins at prestigious events like the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Working certifications available for the breed include Earthdog tests, which evaluate the natural hunting instincts and ability to work underground, as well as rally obedience, agility, and various performance events that showcase the breed's versatility beyond the conformation ring.

The Scottish Terrier presents a distinctive and immediately recognizable appearance, combining substantial bone structure within a compact frame. The overall silhouette is rectangular when viewed from the side, with a level topline and a bearing that conveys dignity and power. This breed's conformation reflects its heritage as a working terrier bred to pursue game underground in the rugged Scottish terrain.

The head is long in proportion to the overall size, with a flat skull and no apparent stop. The muzzle is approximately equal in length to the skull, creating a balanced profile. Small, bright eyes are set well under the brow, almond-shaped and dark brown in color, imparting a piercing, intelligent expression that is both keen and varminty in character. The ears are small, prick, set high on the skull, and carried erect, contributing to the alert appearance that is characteristic of the breed.

The Scottish Terrier's body is moderately short with well-sprung ribs that flatten to a deep chest, providing ample room for heart and lung capacity necessary for the breed's original working function. The chest should be broad and deep, extending well down between the forelegs. The back is proportionately short and level, supported by muscular hindquarters. The tail is set high and carried gaily but not over the back, traditionally docked to approximately seven inches in countries where docking remains permissible, though natural tails are increasingly common.

Legs are short but strongly boned, with the forelegs straight and set well under the body. The forearms are particularly muscular for a dog of this size. Hind legs are notably powerful with well-bent stifles and short hocks that provide drive and agility. Feet are round, thick-padded, and compact, with the forefeet slightly larger than the hind feet, all contributing to the breed's sure-footed movement over rough terrain.

The coat is one of the breed's most distinctive features, consisting of a hard, wiry outer coat approximately two inches in length, underlaid by a soft, dense undercoat that provides weather protection. Longer furnishings on the legs, lower body, and face create the breed's characteristic outline. The beard and eyebrows are particularly pronounced, contributing to the Scottish Terrier's distinguished expression. Accepted colors include black, wheaten (ranging from pale gold to reddish), and brindle (a mixture of black and brown hairs). White markings are considered a fault except for a small spot on the chest.

Sexual dimorphism is moderate, with males typically appearing more substantial and commanding in presence, though both sexes should convey the compact power and confident bearing that defines the breed. Movement should be free and agile, with good reach in front and strong drive from behind, maintaining a level topline even in motion. The gait reflects the breed's ability to work effectively over challenging terrain, combining efficiency with the determination that has made the Scottish Terrier an enduring symbol of tenacity and spirit.

The Scottish Terrier's origins reach deep into the history of Scotland, where small, game terriers have existed for centuries among the Highland populations. While the exact timeline of the breed's development remains somewhat obscured by the mists of Scottish history, dogs resembling the modern Scottish Terrier were certainly established by the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries as valued working companions on farms and estates throughout the Scottish Highlands.

These early terriers were bred primarily for function rather than uniform appearance, selected for their ability to hunt vermin including rats, foxes, and badgers, as well as to pursue game such as otter and other quarry in the challenging terrain of their homeland. The harsh climate and rocky landscape of Scotland required dogs with tremendous determination, weatherproof coats, and the physical structure to navigate tight spaces underground while maintaining the strength to dispatch formidable prey.

The formal development of the Scottish Terrier as a distinct breed began in earnest during the nineteenth century when dog showing became increasingly popular in Britain. Captain Gordon Murray is credited as one of the principal architects of the modern breed standard, working to stabilize type and establish breeding programs that would consistently produce dogs with the desired characteristics. The first breed club was established in Scotland in 1882, followed by the Scottish Terrier Club in England in 1883.

During this formative period, considerable debate arose among fanciers regarding which type of Scottish terrier represented the true breed. Several varieties of working terriers from Scotland were exhibited under similar names, creating confusion in the show ring. Eventually, distinct breeds emerged from this genetic pool, including the Scottish Terrier, West Highland White Terrier, Cairn Terrier, and Skye Terrier, each developing their own breed clubs and standards.

The Scottish Terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885, making it one of the earliest terrier breeds to achieve official status in the United States. The breed quickly gained popularity among American fanciers, appealing to those who appreciated its distinctive appearance and determined character. The Scottish Terrier Club of America, founded in 1900, has maintained consistent breed type through the decades while adapting to changing times.

Throughout the twentieth century, the Scottish Terrier achieved remarkable fame beyond the show ring, becoming associated with notable figures and appearing in popular culture. President Franklin D. Roosevelt's beloved Scottie, Fala, became one of the most photographed dogs in history and helped cement the breed's place in American popular imagination. Other famous Scotties have included characters in advertising, cinema, and literature, contributing to the breed's enduring recognition even among those unfamiliar with purebred dogs.

The breed has experienced waves of popularity throughout its history, with significant booms following the World Wars and again during the 1930s and 1940s. Modern breeding programs continue to emphasize the characteristics that made the Scottish Terrier successful originally: sound temperament, structural integrity for the breed's original purpose, and the distinctive appearance that makes the breed immediately recognizable. While no longer commonly employed as working terriers, Scottish Terriers participate successfully in various performance events including Earthdog trials, which allow them to demonstrate their natural hunting abilities in controlled settings.

The Scottish Terrier possesses a temperament that perfectly reflects its heritage as an independent working terrier bred to make decisions without human direction while pursuing game underground. This breed is characterized by confidence, determination, and a dignified bearing that has earned it the nickname "the Diehard" among enthusiasts. Unlike some companion breeds, the Scottie forms deep bonds with its family but maintains a certain reserve and self-possession that some interpret as aloofness.

Intelligence is a hallmark of the breed, with Scottish Terriers demonstrating excellent problem-solving abilities and a keen awareness of their surroundings. This mental acuity, combined with the breed's independent nature, can present challenges in training for owners accustomed to more biddable breeds. The Scottish Terrier thinks for itself and may question commands it perceives as pointless, requiring training methods that engage the dog's mind and provide clear motivation for cooperation.

With family members, the Scottish Terrier is devoted and affectionate, though it typically selects one or two individuals as its primary people. This loyalty runs deep, and the breed will defend its family with impressive determination despite its small size. The Scottish Terrier's protective instincts make it an excellent watchdog, alert to any disturbance in its territory and quick to announce visitors with a distinctive bark that carries surprising volume for such a compact dog.

Stranger tolerance varies among individuals but generally tends toward reserved acceptance rather than immediate friendliness. The Scottish Terrier takes time to assess newcomers before offering acceptance, maintaining a somewhat formal demeanor that reflects its dignified nature. This wariness should not be confused with fear or aggression; rather, it represents the breed's measured approach to unfamiliar situations and people.

The Scottish Terrier retains strong prey drive and hunting instincts despite generations removed from regular work. Movement triggers chase response, making careful management necessary around small pets, particularly outdoor cats or small mammals. This instinct also influences behavior during walks, where the breed may become intensely focused on scents or small animals, requiring secure fencing and leash vigilance to prevent pursuit of perceived prey.

Social compatibility with other dogs can be complicated by the Scottish Terrier's assertive nature and tendency toward same-sex aggression. While many Scotties coexist peacefully with other household dogs, particularly those of opposite sex, the breed generally does not back down from confrontation and may react strongly to perceived challenges from other dogs. Early socialization helps mitigate these tendencies but may not eliminate them entirely given the breed's strong-willed character.

Energy levels are moderate, with the Scottish Terrier enjoying daily activity but not requiring the intensive exercise demands of some working breeds. The breed appreciates routine walks and play sessions but is equally content to spend time resting near its family. This balanced activity level makes the breed adaptable to various living situations, though the Scottie always benefits from mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviors. Individual personality varies within the breed, with some dogs displaying more playfulness and others emphasizing the dignified, serious demeanor associated with breed type, but all Scottish Terriers share the core traits of determination, loyalty, and confident self-possession that define this remarkable breed.

The Scottish Terrier adapts well to various family structures but thrives best with owners who appreciate and respect the breed's independent nature rather than expecting constant attention-seeking behavior. This breed forms strong attachments to its family unit while maintaining a dignified reserve that some owners find endearing and others may initially interpret as standoffishness. Families seeking a dog that shadows them constantly may find the Scottie's self-possessed nature surprising, though the breed is always nearby when needed.

With children, the Scottish Terrier generally does best in homes with older, respectful youngsters who understand appropriate interaction with dogs. The breed's tolerance for rough handling is limited, and Scotties may react with a warning snap if subjected to tail-pulling, ear-grabbing, or other intrusive behavior that violates their personal space. Children who can learn to respect the dog's boundaries and engage in appropriate play will find a loyal companion, but families with toddlers or very young children should carefully consider whether this independent breed matches their lifestyle.

Multi-pet households present varying levels of success with Scottish Terriers. As previously noted, the breed's strong prey drive makes cohabitation with small mammals like rabbits, hamsters, or ferrets inadvisable without extremely careful management. Cat relationships depend heavily on early socialization and individual temperament; some Scotties accept feline housemates while others never fully overcome the instinct to chase. Dogs of opposite sex typically coexist more peacefully than same-sex pairs, though proper introductions and ongoing management remain essential regardless of household composition.

Living space requirements are modest, with the Scottish Terrier adapting well to apartment living provided its exercise and mental stimulation needs are met. The breed's moderate size and relatively calm indoor demeanor make it suitable for various housing situations. However, access to a securely fenced outdoor area provides valuable enrichment, allowing the dog to patrol its territory and investigate scents at its leisure. Fencing must be secure and preferably dig-proof, as the breed's terrier heritage includes impressive excavation skills that can quickly create escape routes under inadequate barriers.

Urban environments suit the Scottish Terrier well, particularly for owners who enjoy daily walks and can provide structured outdoor time. The breed's alertness makes it an excellent apartment watchdog, though training to manage barking prevents disturbance to neighbors. Rural settings also work wonderfully, offering more opportunities for the breed to express natural behaviors, though secure containment remains essential given the strong prey drive that may lead to wandering if attractive scents or sightings occur.

Climate tolerance is generally good thanks to the breed's weather-resistant double coat, which provides insulation against cold weather. Scottish Terriers handle winter conditions well and often enjoy snow. Heat tolerance requires more consideration, as the dark coat color (most common in the breed) absorbs sunlight and the wire texture provides warmth. Summer activities should be scheduled during cooler portions of the day, with shade and fresh water always available.

Alone time tolerance is moderate to good, with well-adjusted Scottish Terriers managing several hours of solitude without developing separation anxiety. The breed's independent nature works in its favor here, as Scotties do not require constant companionship to feel secure. However, extended absences should still include appropriate exercise before departure and enrichment activities to prevent boredom. Destructive behavior from a Scottish Terrier typically indicates insufficient mental stimulation rather than separation distress, though individual dogs vary in their emotional needs and tolerance for alone time.

Training a Scottish Terrier requires understanding the breed's independent nature and adapting methods accordingly. This is an intelligent breed that learns quickly but may choose not to comply if it perceives no benefit to doing so. Harsh corrections prove counterproductive with this sensitive yet stubborn breed, often resulting in a dog that shuts down or becomes oppositional. Instead, positive reinforcement methods that engage the Scottie's mind and make training interesting yield far better results.

Motivation is key when training Scottish Terriers. Food rewards work well with many individuals, though some are not particularly food-motivated and respond better to praise or play opportunities. Discovering what motivates an individual dog and using that as a training reward dramatically improves cooperation. Training sessions should be relatively short to maintain the dog's interest, as prolonged repetition may bore the breed and lead to disengagement.

Socialization represents perhaps the most critical aspect of Scottish Terrier puppy development. Early, positive exposure to various people, dogs, environments, and situations helps shape a confident, well-adjusted adult. The breed's natural wariness of strangers and potential for dog-selectivity make comprehensive socialization essential during the critical developmental period. Puppy classes provide valuable structured socialization opportunities while also beginning basic obedience training in a controlled environment.

House training generally proceeds smoothly with Scottish Terriers, as the breed is naturally clean and learns routine quickly. Consistency in schedule and clear communication about expectations establish good habits early. Some male Scottish Terriers may display territorial marking behavior, making neutering consideration important for household harmony. Crate training provides a useful management tool and gives the dog a secure den space that aligns with the breed's instincts.

Exercise requirements are moderate, typically satisfied with two walks of twenty to thirty minutes daily plus some playtime or training activities. While not demanding marathon exercise sessions, Scottish Terriers benefit from regular activity that engages both body and mind. The breed enjoys brisk walks at a good pace, showing impressive stamina for its size. Off-leash exercise requires secure fencing due to the strong prey drive that can override recall training when something interesting appears.

Mental enrichment is equally important as physical exercise for this intelligent breed. Puzzle toys, scent work, hide-and-seek games, and training new behaviors all provide valuable mental stimulation. Scottish Terriers excel at activities that allow them to use their natural abilities, making Earthdog trials particularly appealing. These tests recreate hunting scenarios in controlled conditions, allowing the dog to work underground pursuing quarry scent through tunnels. Many Scotties demonstrate remarkable enthusiasm for this activity, which taps into their heritage.

Dog sports offer additional outlets for the breed's energy and intelligence. Rally obedience provides structured training challenges without the precision requirements of traditional obedience competition. Agility suits some Scottish Terriers, though their independent nature may lead to creative course navigation rather than strict compliance. Barn hunt competitions appeal to the breed's hunting instincts, and therapy dog work suits individuals with particularly stable, friendly temperaments. Recall training requires patience and consistent work, as the Scottish Terrier's independent streak and prey drive can make reliable off-leash control challenging, particularly in unconfined areas where distractions abound.

The Scottish Terrier is generally a hardy breed with a typical lifespan of twelve to fifteen years, though individual longevity depends on various factors including genetics, diet, exercise, and overall care quality. Like all purebred dogs, the breed faces certain hereditary health conditions that responsible breeders work to minimize through health testing and selective breeding practices. Prospective owners should familiarize themselves with breed-specific concerns to make informed decisions and provide appropriate preventive care throughout the dog's life.

Responsible ownership includes awareness of breed-specific cancer risks, particularly bladder cancer. Any changes in urination habits warrant prompt veterinary evaluation. Working with a veterinarian familiar with Scottish Terriers helps ensure appropriate health monitoring throughout the dog's life. While the breed faces certain health challenges, many Scottish Terriers live long, healthy lives with proper care, nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary attention. Selecting a puppy from health-tested parents significantly reduces risk for hereditary conditions, making careful breeder selection one of the most important decisions a prospective owner makes.

The Scottish Terrier's distinctive wire coat requires significant grooming commitment to maintain both health and appearance. This is not a low-maintenance breed from a grooming perspective, and prospective owners should carefully consider whether they can provide or afford the necessary coat care before acquiring a Scottie. The breed's coat serves functional purposes including weather protection and skin health, making proper grooming essential beyond mere aesthetics.

Hand-stripping represents the traditional and preferred method for maintaining correct coat texture in Scottish Terriers, particularly for show dogs. This process involves removing dead outer coat hairs by hand or with a stripping knife, allowing new growth to come in with proper wire texture. Hand-stripping maintains the coat's weather-resistant properties and vibrant color. However, the technique requires skill and considerable time, leading many pet owners to choose clipping instead.

Clipping provides a more convenient alternative for pet Scottish Terriers not intended for show, though it permanently alters coat texture to a softer finish that may not provide the same weather protection. Clipped coats often fade in color and lose the harsh texture characteristic of the breed. Professional grooming every six to eight weeks maintains appropriate coat length and style, including trimming the furnishings on legs, beard, and eyebrows that create the breed's distinctive silhouette.

Between professional grooming appointments, owners should brush the coat several times weekly using a slicker brush and metal comb to prevent matting, particularly in the longer furnishings. The beard requires daily attention as it collects food and water, necessitating regular cleaning to prevent odor and skin irritation. Many owners keep a towel handy to wipe the beard after eating and drinking.

Bathing frequency depends on lifestyle and coat condition, typically ranging from monthly to every six weeks for most Scottish Terriers. The wire coat naturally repels dirt to some degree, but regular bathing maintains skin health and removes accumulated debris. Use of appropriate shampoo formulated for wire coats helps maintain texture. Thorough rinsing prevents residue buildup that can cause skin irritation.

Nail trimming should occur every three to four weeks to maintain proper foot structure and prevent discomfort. Scottish Terriers with black nails require extra care during trimming to avoid cutting into the quick. Regular nail maintenance from puppyhood helps dogs accept the procedure more readily. Ear cleaning as needed prevents wax buildup and infection, particularly important given the breed's prick ears that allow good air circulation but may still accumulate debris.

Eye care includes monitoring for any discharge or irritation, as the pronounced eyebrows can sometimes trap debris near the eyes. Dental care through regular tooth brushing prevents periodontal disease, which affects many small breeds. Professional dental cleaning under anesthesia may be necessary periodically based on veterinary assessment. Overall grooming costs for a Scottish Terrier maintained in pet trim typically range from moderate to high depending on geographic location and whether owners perform some maintenance tasks themselves or rely entirely on professional services. The investment in proper grooming protects the dog's health and comfort while maintaining the dignified appearance that epitomizes this distinguished breed.

If you're looking to adopt a Scottish Terrier, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

Scottish Terriers enter rescue for various reasons including owner lifestyle changes, health issues, or misconceptions about breed temperament. Many rescue Scotties are wonderful dogs simply needing a second chance. Adopting an adult dog allows assessment of established personality and bypasses the intensive demands of puppyhood. Rescue organizations provide valuable support and guidance throughout the adoption process and beyond, helping ensure successful placements. Most rescue Scottish Terriers are already housetrained and have some obedience foundation, making the transition to a new home easier for both dog and adopter.

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Scottish Terriers waiting for their forever homes.