A Scottish Terrier is an aggressive, independent, high-spirited dog with a vivid personality. From taking just one look, the Scottish Terrier gives the impression of “great power coming in small packages.” 

Scottish Terriers are noble and have almost human-like characters. They have distinctive eyebrows and beards that make them always look keen and sharp.  Their bright and sharp eyes express maximum keenness and alertness in conjunction with their erect ears and tail. 

Scotties are excellent watchdogs due to their aloofness towards strangers. However, their hunting nature is always strong. They can make life hard for the neighbor’s cat and even dogs as they tend to be irritable around other canines. Because it is an active breed, this bold, clever Scotsman appreciates brisk walks and cheerful play.

Characteristics of the Scottish Terrier:

• Its coat is dense, highly hardy, and wiry, about 2 inches long.
• It has short bowed legs.
• It is a compact dog.
• A male Scottish Terrier weighs 19- 22 lbs, while a female weighs 18-21 lbs.
• It is relatively heavy-boned.
• It has a lifespan of 11-13 yrs.
• It is 10 inches in height.
• It has a wiry topcoat, and the undercoat coat may be a black brindle-stripe pattern or wheaten yellow.
• It is bold and confident, as well as calm and more dignified than most other terriers.
• It does not shed excessively.

Scottish Terriers are assumed to be the oldest of highland terriers. However, there have been several controversies concerning the breed’s history concerning its origin. Back in the 1800s, many debated what makes a Scottish Terrier unique, besides simply coming from Scotland. 

Despite being a humble farm dog, the Scottish Terrier was loved by prominent people. For instance, England’s King James I, who was a Scot by birth, gave them as gifts in the 17th century.

The first Scottish Terrier imports arrived in the US in 1883. The breed later became popular in the 1930s and early ’40s when it had its first celebrity owners, like Humphrey Bogart, Bette Davis, and President Franklin Roosevelt. He owned history’s most famous Scottie named Fala during World War II.