I’m an animal lover. I was going to say an animal freak or crazy dog lady. But I sometimes surprise myself with how many random dog facts I know. The other night, my husband and I were watching Law and Order: Los Angeles and the main suspect was caught because of the dog hairs left on the victim’s body – a white hair and a black hair from his two Scottish terriers. “Wait a second, Scotties don’t have white fur,” I thought. I have to admit it bugged me and because I wasn’t sure, I had to check with Google. It turns out that white Scotties don’t exist. Random dog information fills this brain of mine. It got me thinking about those adorable Scottish terriers, though. So, is this regal little dog the right fit for you?
The Scottish terrier, often called the “Scottie,” is recognized for its distinctive profile and hard, wiry coat. They are known for having shaggy beards and eyebrows. That’s a Scottie. Like many breeds in the terrier group, Scotties are small but strong. The American Kennel Club says of the breed, “They are known as fast, alert and playful dogs. Don’t be fooled by their size. Scotties make terrific watchdogs. In fact, you’d be hard pressed to find a more formidable little scrapper. Protective and fearless when their home is threatened, they also know when to show restraint.” They can be reserved and aloof with people outside the family, but as long as they are properly introduced to new people, they are likely to be perfectly charming.
According to the AKC, “the Scottie was originally bred to hunt and kill vermin on farms. King James VI, known to adore the breed, is said to be responsible for the rise in popularity in Scotland during his reign. Scotties were introduced to America in the 1890s and continue to remain a common fixture in American households. The Scottish terrier’s bold, confident, dignified demeanor exemplifies power in a small package.”
The Scottish terrier is well-known throughout history. It’s the only breed that has lived in the White House more than three times. According to Jim Orsborn, author of History of the Scottish Terrier, “President Franklin D. Roosevelt was renowned for owning a Scottie named Fala, a gift from his cousin, Margaret Stuckley. The president loved Fala so much that he rarely went anywhere without him. His wife, Eleanor, had a Scottish terrier named Meggie when the family entered the White House in 1933. More recently, President George W. Bush owned two black Scottish terriers, Barney and Miss Beazley.”
I’ve met and photographed only a few Scotties, but my favorite by far is Mortimer. He is a quirky, fun-loving little boy and is definitely a regal Scott. His owner, Gina Villavicencio, says, “Mortie loves food but also loves toys. He loves to run and play. I can’t imagine having another type of dog. We recently adopted Addie, who is just as amazing and sweet.”
Scotties thrive as house pets and are gentle, loving members of their families. Just like Mortimer, most Scotties are charming and full of character, but they are very sensitive to being scolded and don’t respond well to punishment or correction-based training. If one is firm and confident, the dog should respond. However, if one doesn’t mean it when saying no – the Scottie will sense it and will refuse to listen. The spirited nature of the Scottie requires consistent, positive obedience training.
Just because they’re small doesn’t mean they don’t need exercise. These active little dogs need daily walks to keep them out of trouble. Scotties need lots of attention and activity to stay mentally sharp. Leaving them in the back yard for hours at a time is asking for trouble: Scottish terriers love to dig. And when they’re bored, they can get into all sorts of mischief. Make sure a Scottie gets plenty of play time, including time off the leash in a controlled environment. It’s important to be aware that these terriers love to chase anything that runs away.
Anyone looking for a sporty and playful pup will appreciate the high-spirited energy a Scottie brings to a home. Keep in mind that this proud breed is very sensitive, full of dignity and toughness. Give them the love and companionship they crave, and you’ve got a life-long pal.
Lori Fusaro has been voted the best portrait photographer by FoxTV three years in a row. She lives in Culver City with her husband, four cats and dog. Contact: Lori@FusaroPhotography.com, FusaroPhotography.com.
