Behavior

This loving, little terrier is very intelligent, courageous and alert. Affectionate, spunky, cheerful and sociable, they like to be close to their master. They are full of energy and need a good amount of exercise in order to be calm. Curious and keen they are an enthusiastic digger. Active, smart and quick. Despite their size, this docile dog makes a good watchdog. This is a sturdy breed that adjusts well to traveling. They are not generally trustworthy with other non-canine pets such as rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs. Socialize them well including with cats so they do not chase them. Good with children so long as the dog does not have a meek owner who fails to give him the discipline and structure all dogs instinctually need. Training these dogs is very straight- forward because it is very eager to learn. Do not allow this little dog to develop Small Dog Syndrome, human induced behaviors where the dog believes he is pack leader to humans. When a Silky believes they are the boss, their temperament changes, as they try to control everyone and every thing around them. They may become demanding, willful, protective and may begin to bark a lot. They may begin to be untrustworthy with children and sometimes adults, becoming snappish if peeved and may pick fights with other dogs.

This very clean breed is well suited for life as a house dog provided he gets out often for long walks. Regular brushing and combing are required. This is not a dog to leave fenced in a yard. They need to be indoors and definitely do not need to be tied up outside, because they want attention so bad they might get hurt trying to get loose.

Behavior

Scotties are territorial, alert, quick moving and feisty, perhaps even more so than other terrier breeds. The breed is known to be independent and self-assured, playful, intelligent, and has been nicknamed the 'Diehard' because of its rugged nature and endless determination. The "Diehard" nickname was originally given to it in the 19th century by George, the fourth Earl of Dumbarton. The Earl had a famous pack of Scottish Terriers, so brave that they were named “Diehards”. They were supposed to have inspired the name of his Regiment, The Royal Scots, "Dumbarton’s Diehards".

Scotties, while being described as very loving, have also been described as stubborn. They are sometimes described as an aloof breed, although it has been noted that they tend to be very loyal to their family and are known to attach themselves to one or two people.

It has been suggested that the Scottish Terrier can make a good watchdog due to its tendency to bark only when necessary and because it is typically reserved with strangers, although this is not always the case. They have been described as a fearless breed that may be aggressive around other dogs unless introduced at an early age.