Skye Terrier

Also called Scotch Terrier

  • Lots of grooming

The Skye Terrier is a small breed of terrier from the Isle of Skye in Scotland. These dogs are small in size, with a long and wiry coat of fur. They have a dignified and independent demeanor, with an instinct for hunting. They are highly intelligent and trainable, but require firm and consistent training to be obedient. They are loyal and devoted to their family, but can be stubborn and independent at times.

Weight
24–44 lb (11–20 kg)
Height at the shoulder
9–10 in (23–26 cm)
Life span
12–15 years
Exercise
About 40 minutes a day
Coat
Long, Double
Origin
Isle of Skye, Scotland, United Kingdom (16th century)

Traits

Family and friends

  • Children: OK with children
  • Other dogs: Wary of other dogs
  • Strangers: Reserved with strangers

Home and activity

  • Energy: Moderately active
  • Apartment living: Can manage in an apartment
  • Barking: Barks sometimes
  • Training: Fairly easy to train

Care

  • Grooming: Lots of grooming
  • Shedding: Sheds a little
  • Drooling: Hardly drools

Temperament

Devoted Dignified Independent Loyal Reserved with strangers Strong-willed

Coat colours

Black, blue, cream, dark grey, fawn, light grey and silver platinum

Males and females

MeasureMalesFemales
Weight 35–44 lb (16–20 kg) 24–40 lb (11–18 kg)
Height 9–10 in (24–26 cm) 9–10 in (23–25 cm)

Recognized by

American Kennel Club (AKC), Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), The Kennel Club (UK) (KC) and United Kennel Club (UKC)


Caring for a Skye Terrier

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Veterinarians

Check-ups and vaccinations through its 12–15 years.

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Groomers

Its coat needs frequent grooming to stay healthy.

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Dog trainers

Can be stubborn: a trainer helps from the start.

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Pet sitters

Someone to look after it while you’re away.

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Breeds of a similar size

All medium breeds
An Airedale Terrier
Medium

Airedale Terrier

Terrier Group

  • Weight:40–51 lb (18–23 kg)
  • Life span:12–14 years
A Bull Terrier
Medium

Bull Terrier

Terrier Group

  • Weight:44–64 lb (20–29 kg)
  • Life span:12–15 years
An Irish Terrier
Medium

Irish Terrier

Terrier Group

  • Weight:24–26 lb (11–12 kg)
  • Life span:12–15 years

Sources

Breed details from The Dog API (opens in a new tab).