Claire is interested in canine history and the evolution of pedigree dogs.
She adores animals and lives in a multi-pet household.
Explore some possibilities for the seeming decline in the popularity of
Scottish Terriers.
Image by Obsidain Photography from Pixabay
Native British Breeds Are Declining in Number
Whilst not making an appearance in the list of the UK Kennel Club vulnerable
native breeds, the Scottie does share some attributes with those that do, such
as the Dandie Dinmont and the Skye Terrier. The Skye Terrier only had 43
registrations in 2015. The Scottish Terrier certainly is not at risk to the
same extent as these breeds, yet there do appear to be fewer of them about,
and they are nowhere near as common as their close relative the West Highland
White Terrier, which regularly appears in the top 10 list of breeds in the UK.
Why Aren’t Scotties More Popular?
I suppose the big question is why? They are cute, fun, not too large and shed
minimally. Here are a few ideas why they might not be as popular as they once
were.
- They are not lapdogs.
- They need a lot of grooming.
- They are very strong-willed.
- They’ve lost their popularity due to changing fashions and designer dogs.
Scotties are cute, fun and fairly small!
1. They Are Not Lapdogs
The Scottish Terrier is an incredibly devoted companion. Despite this, many
Scotties would rather sit by the side, or at the feet, of their owner rather
than lay in their lap and smother them in kisses. Also, they are not likely to
be happy to be carried around; they would prefer to be exploring.
A fully grown Scottish Terrier is also quite a sturdy little dog. Sure, it has
short legs, but it’s stocky and strong. Nevertheless, it does not take up much
room in the house.
These Scotties are enjoying the backyard.
2. They Need a Lot of Grooming
That wiry double coat is going to need the attention of a professional groomer
three times a year at the very minimum. The classic Scottish Terrier cut
includes a long skirt, which requires specific attention when grooming. It
also acts much like a mop on walks, collecting mud, leaves and twigs.
A pet trim can be chosen as an alternative for owners who do not show their
dogs, which is much easier to maintain. A pet trim does still, however,
require regular brushing to avoid matting.
Perhaps this makes the Scottie less desirable to those who would prefer not to
have the expense and hassle of this type of coat. Despite this, similar
requirements have not influenced a decline in popularity of the Westie, and
for those who do not want a dog that sheds excessively, the Scottie is a good
choice.
“Shake!”
3. They Are Very Strong-Willed
The Scottie did not gain the nickname ‘Little Diehard’ for nothing. They are
intelligent and know exactly what they want to do—and what they don’t want to
do. Some owners would even describe them as having somewhat selective hearing.
They will need a firm yet patient owner; guidelines should be set at a young
age, and training may take a good while longer than with other breeds. They
are, however, incredibly sensitive and want their owners to be happy.
They also possess a desire to be involved in their family’s day-to-day lives
(they see themselves as little helpers). Furthermore, they have a delightful
sense of humour.
The Scottie’s Prey Drive
Where small animals are concerned, caution is required with this breed.
Originally bred to catch rats, rabbits and even badgers, some exhibit a strong
prey drive. They can be taught to live peacefully with such animals; for
example, mine share their house with a chinchilla and tolerate semi-tame ducks
in the garden. I would not be confident enough to say this is typical
behaviour for the Scottish Terrier; many have a desire to chase after small
animals (or worse).
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Regardless of its charm, the headstrong Scottish Terrier may have lost some
deal of popularity due to an energetic and challenging persona.
4. They’ve Lost Their Popularity Due to Changing Fashions and Designer
Dogs
It could be argued that the workman-like, sharp profile of the Scottish
Terrier is not as fashionable as it was, partially due to the recent
development of ‘designer dogs.’ There is now a huge range of extremely cute
hybrid pups soaring in popularity, many of which appear to be small to medium,
amiable and non-shedding! This makes them an ideal choice for families and
those who suffer from pet hair allergies.
However, the pups in the hybrid litters can vary greatly in terms of coat and
size. Because they are crossbreeds, it is more difficult for a breeder to make
promises as to how the puppy will turn out. Additionally, many of these dogs
come from dubious places, and it has been argued that their fashion status is
fuelling puppy farms (but that is a debate for another time and place).
The Scottie also shares many of the positive traits of designer dogs and is
also a great family dog, if raised correctly. They tend to be good with
children, with a tendency to be protective, but be warned: They will not
tolerate being teased.
Scotties Are Faithful, Quirky Friends
If fashion really is the reason for the decline in interest in the Scottish
Terrier, it would be a shame, as they are fantastic and fun companions.
Admittedly, living with two of them, I would stress that they are not the
breed for everyone. But for those who do not mind their quirks, Scotties make
true and faithful friends.
Comments
Evelyn is on June 13, 2020:
Andy, my wonderful Scotty companion is ten years old. He is bright,
intelligent, and without doubt a true guardian. He knows me so well and when I
come in with the grocery shopping will put his nose in the bags looking for
his treat, his eyes light up when I put on my outdoor shoes and he he has the
most adorable little dance when I reach for his lead. Recently he has become a
little deaf but apart from that he is in great health and as playful as a
young puppy.
Robert on May 27, 2020:
My two year old is my third scottie girl that I own. All of them are/were hole
digging, stubborn attitude, little brats and I love/loved them.
John on May 03, 2020:
I grew up with a Scottie. Incredibly loyal, intelligent, and not for someone
who needs a lapdog. Slept under my bed every night. A couragous little fellow.
Janie on May 02, 2019:
I have had 2 Scottie’s. One a few years ago. He was an amazing friend and
companion. He died at 12 years old. I now have another Scotty. He is 10. He
also is an amazing pet. They both are very different. But very intelligent. My
vet even asked me why chose a Scotty. I told her. I love the breed. To me the
most intelligent of them all. And very loyal.
Cheryl on May 01, 2019:
I have 3 Scotties. One of which is a service dog. Amazing breed, I couldn’t
live without them.
Stephen on April 26, 2019:
First Scottie was ‘rescued’ from a pet store. Since then we’ve had seven more,
all Rescue Scotties. We’d take older ones, the hard to place ones, maybe
health issues. All have been unique unto themselves, true stalwarts and
wonderful companions. Our last, Nora Jane, is in decline after being diagnosed
last Nov. with an inoperable stomach tumor. No telling when she’ll be crossing
the Rainbow Bridge (soon) but her passing from our lives won’t mean she’ll
ever leave our hearts.
Vicki on April 25, 2019:
My first Scotty dog was a rescue from animal control, since then I have become
smitten with the breed. Each one died prematurely, from liver disease, heart
disease and lymphoma, they seem prone to devastating expensive health
conditions. I have had 3 and now have a rescue mixed breed dog, but miss my
last Scotty Kyra no end,considering adopting a Scotty dog from a rescue group
some day, they are bright, entertaining and very curious, miss one in my life.
Sue on March 26, 2019:
Have 3 Scottie’s and my life would be empty without them in it. Yes they take
some work but what dog doesn’t? They are a fantastic breed and more people
need to know that.
Ben on March 25, 2019:
I have had 3 Scottie’s. There’s no better best friend in the world. My last
one died recently and it took a part of me with him.