Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier is one of the oldest terriers. With his heavy whiskers and eyebrows and short body, he's instantly recognizable.

The Scottie is a playful puppy who grows into a dignified adult. He is likely to become attached to one person and lead a life of quiet dignity dedicated to that companion. Despite his sometimes reserved nature, the Scottie remains a true terrier. He wants to rid the world of rats and other vermin. He started out in Scotland as a fierce hunter of foxes and badgers. He pursued them courageously, digging into the ground after them with his broad, strong feet. The Scottie has a wiry outer coat with a shorter undercoat. He can be gray, brindled, or grizzled, black, sandy, or wheaten. His nose should be black; eyes, dark brown or nearly black.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance: Wearing a keen, sharp, and active expression, with head and tail carried well up, and showing power.

Size, Proportion, and Substance: Height--about 10 inches at the withers. Weight--males, 19 to 22 pounds; females, 18 to 21 pounds.

Fun Facts

The serious minded Scottie often develops a deeply loving relationship with his owner. President Franklin D. Roosevelt was attached to his Scottie, Fala, who lived in the White House with Roosevelt. He took him with him on his travels whenever he could, and he is buried next to his grave in Hyde Park, New York.

Excerpted from The Complete Dog Book For Kids © 1996, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.