
From children’s films like Lady And The Tramp to major dog events like the Westminster Dog Show, Scottish Terriers steal the spotlight everywhere they go. Whether you’re a big fan of the breed, or just want to know how these dogs have been a favorite for hundreds of years, here are just 10 of the many reasons why Scotties are irresistible:
1. Nobody gives better mustache kisses.
Even lady-Scotties have a wonderful mustache that tickles your nose when they lick your face. Scottie puppies, however, are not marvelously mustachioed until their first birthday. That mustache is earned, and it’s unique to the Scottish Terrier. Consider it a special blessing if a Scottie ever gives you a drippy, sloppy kiss after dipping that mustache in their water bowl.
2. Scotties are eternal puppies.
Until the very end, a Scottie has a mischievous sense of humor. You’ll quickly learn to put away your socks, because they look and smell exactly like the rats that this dog has been bred to chase. Nothing is more fun to a Scottie than being chased around the house with a sock, no matter how old they get.
3. Being loved by a Scottie is an honor.
Unlike a Golden Retriever, which will love just about anyone, a Scottie is wary of strangers. While they’re loyal to their family, anyone else will have to earn their trust. If you are able to befriend a Scottie, it means that you are now part of their family. This is not as easy as bribing them with a treat. They can tell if you are a good person, and will only trust someone with a pure heart.
4. Done right, that signature clip is on fleek.
Professional dog groomers look forward to grooming a Scottish Terrier. It’s a great opportunity to show off how skilled you are with the shears. Scotties are adorable when their coat is overgrown and scraggly, but there’s nothing like a fresh clip. Anyone can appreciate that lovely silhouette.
5. They make you seem more distinguished.
The Eisenhowers, Roosevelts and even George W. Bush Jr. all owned Scotties while in the White House. The dogs also have a long heritage of belonging to royal families. So, it stands to reason that if you have a Scottie dog in your life, you must be someone special. Only someone with strong leadership qualities can own this charming breed. No matter what’s going on in your life, no matter how you dress or how you decorate your home, a Scottie ties everything together.
6. Those eyebrows are all natural.
The past decade has seen a widespread trend of thick, full eyebrows. Women have been using eyebrow pencils, creams, even tattoos to replicate the bold, distinguish brow of the Scottish Terrier. While nobody knows for sure how this trend began, and some point at fashion models, it’s quite clear that those expressive brows imitate the inimitable Scottie dog.
7. Scottish Terriers are made for cold nights.
While all dogs have a slightly higher body temperature than humans at 101 degrees Fahrenheit, not all are great for snuggling up to at night. The Scottish terrier has a long, wiry coat that feels exceptional on bare feet. The dog’s short legs are optimal for sharing the bed without taking up too much room. Some love to spoon under the covers, others don’t like being too warm and prefer to be by your feet.
8. They make the perfect excuse for updating to an all-black wardrobe.
Scotties don’t shed terribly, but they do shed, so you will get black hairs on your clothes. Fortunately, you can wear black so the hairs will not be visible. As an added bonus, your new wardrobe will make you look distinguished and professional. People will ask you if you are a poet, a goth, or a heavy metal enthusiast, depending on your makeup, jewelry and facial expression.
9. Scotties make great gardeners.
Like all terriers, the Scottish Terrier was bred to hunt for rodents through underground tunnels. Now, you can put those skills to good use by allowing them to help you turn your soil. Those tough little paws will stop at nothing to aerate your soil to perfection.
10. You can never forget a Scottish Terrier.
Years after your Scottish Terrier leaves you for the great dog park in the sky, you’ll continue to find black hairs and nose prints around your home. It’s impossible to get rid of every trace of evidence of your pup, and the impact that they have on your life lasts forever.
Comments
Kathy
Love your post. I have been the happy person to have been loved by 4 Scotties in my lifetime. They are truly special !
Betty
I’m definitely hooked. I have had a Scottie or more in the house since 1965. Love them
JJ
Love these. I’ve been owned by Scotties for over fifty years. My current is the first wheaten I’ve had, so the black wardrobe isn’t quite working anymore.
Maryalyce J. Johnsen
We are lucky to be loved by our third Scotty Abby! We had Maggie and Bonnie before her. Bonnie had a Clyde to go with her, a Westie. Wonderful companions!
Anne
Thanks for post! Someday I will get a Scottie and name him, Winston.
Sheila
That describes Cassie. There is not a better behaved little girl. Thanks for article
Deborah
We loved a Scottie girl for 8 short years, when she was taken from us by a bleeding disorder. We will never forget our girl, Nessie. The article described her to a “T”. We still have terriers from Scotland, the West Highland Whites and we love them dearly. They are not quite the same, but similar and very loved.
Janet
This article describes our Scottie, Jack to the “T”. Even though He’s gone to the rainbow in the sky, I can’t seem to replace him. These dogs have an attitude all their own. They are smart and stubborn. I miss my Jack jack boy. Ps…he was named from lady and the tramp movie. ?
Janet
I have been owned by four wonderful Scotties, all different yet all the same . These 10 reasons give some if the hundreds of reasons why Scotties become such a part of us. To love a pet is good, to love a dog is better, to love a SCOTTIE is BEST…TRUE.
Dan
great list, number 10 is so true, our second scotty died a month ago, 13 years old, everything brings back memories of her , been very hard to deal with, we have another Scottie puppy being held for us till she is old enough , counting the days,
Shirley
I have been blessed – to be the keeper of three scottie for the last 35 years – molly, sherman and the silly goose girl, Puppy . I loved them dearly, but puppy stole my heart an took it with her, she was my pal, business partner , store mascot and keeper of the gate . It’s been a year now and it has not gotten any easier – I miss her so.
Carlos
Read my book…”De Casta” a lovely story about Scottie
Debra Park
Our Scottie, Monty, is the mayor of our street. He loves every person and dog he meets. We adopted him through a Scottish Terrier Rescue organization. His owner passed away and then he was handed off between family members. It was nearly six years ago, when he was four and a half years old, that he came to live with us. TIme may passed, but his enthusiasm for life has not. His “brother” is our other dog, a Briard. Monty has no idea that he is not the same size. The “lads” as we refer to them, are best friends. I always wanted a Scottie, or as a drive-thru attendant referred to Monty, “The Monopoly Dog.”
I will always have at least one for the rest of my life.
Marilyn
I am owned by a brindle Scotty named Brody. He is my fifth Scotty and each one has been a favorite. They are such protective dogs always keeping their little body between their family and threats. He is the custodian of the street with a wary eye to what he deems is appropriate to be on the walkways and streets. Aloof but willing to accept admiration at a distance. A lover of doggie treats, doggie dinner and quick to respond to doggie bedtime. He sleeps under the head of my bed so he is at the ready for any nighttime protection. A well loved, devoted companion whose judge of character is impeccable, My boy Brody.
Daniel
I saved the life of A wondering in the Street black Scottie. he entered our home and became our family member. We have A cat already.we named him Hacker. as he entering the home of my only cat. We have good . good time with Hacker for 29
months . and he reached heaven 2 months ago. the listed
10th reason is so true that my wife and I are Looking for his sight around the House everyday. We could never forget him. We still miss him. I know it will be forever.
Gloria Leibig
There are four Scottiesliving in Jenkintown Pa and I am the proud owner of one of them …my Quinn is the most handsome of the group! He was the runt of his litter but has turned out to be the best looking! He’s going to be six years old in October and let me tell y’all that he is a Scottish Terrier through and Through!
Claudia
Love the list! Our precious Scottie, Regis, is 14 years old. He can’t hear or see very well but can still rigorously chase after his stuffed red fox. His sister, Maggie, left us 3 years ago due to cancer. Regis has survived cancerous tumor removal from his leg, heart worms and torn ACL. He is our 3rd Scottie and we are so dreading the day he joins Maggie in Heaven.
Judith Martin
I can’t imagine not having a Scottie in the house! Their temperament is not for every dog owner, but if you are, a Scottie is pure love at first Scottie.
Christie
I love seeing the posts of people saying they were proud to be “owned” by their Scotties. Truer words could not be spoken.
Aggie
We have had 3 Scottie’s over a span of about 45 years, and this spring we found another. Lucy! She fits the 10 reasons perfectly. At 7 months she is a bundle of energy and so much fun. We also have a Scottie mix that is over 16 now and he is still very active, even plays with our sweet Lucy sometimes! Scottie’s are just so much fun and Lucy loves everyone and every animal.
Debby Busfield
Add me to the list of owners owned by their Scotties. We have two. They’re half sisters. Same daddy different mothers. As different as night and day but Scotty’s through and through. Love them dearly.
Liz Hicks
I have wanted a Scottie since I saw George and Laura Bush’s Barney on television. He was adorable and had such a big personality. Got my first Scottie (a black) 5 years ago and she did not disappoint; her name is Fergie and she is my love. She immediately bonded with me so we got a Wheaton for my husband. Luna is 2 now and guess what she bonded with me as well. They are amazing dogs and companions and I am blessed to have them as part of our family! Couldn’t imagine life without them!
Gail
I was 3 yrs old and my father gave me a scotty for my birthday , I am now 60yrs old and have never been without a scotty by my side, my grandchildren have a scotty also called Hugo and I have Cocoa.
They are little dogs that love to part of everything you do . Scottie’s are in my blood !!!! But be warned your always be tempted to have more than one they are addictive.
barbara
Trying to fine one. I am too alone. My hubby rab away to rhe woods. Complete nutcase so I knew in my heart that a scotty was for me. Just cant find one. Asap.
Susan White
I too am smitten with the breed.
My boyfriend needs a new heart, he is 51…our friend bought him a Scottie pup. She was just 8 weeks or so when he got her… The most precious little girl. He named her Daisy. She is black with some threads of white on her back. She is 15 most old now and the light of his life. She lays with him when he is not well…she has slept next to his heart pump all her life. She loves her Daddy so. And I love her so…she is smart, gentle, happy, well behaved. We never thought she would grow into that nose!! I want one also…having a tough time locating one here tho, gone before I find them. Wonderful little creatures!
Steph
I’m on my second Scottie which we named Dougal, he’s a beauty and My handsome Prince. My first Scottie Belle passed away over a year ago. My heart misses her terribly. Wouldn’t have any other breed now, love them!
Nancy
We are expecting our puppy in June, a Scotty. Our boys both died this year, Murry and McTavish. The deep love and enjoyment we experienced is difficult to put into words. Since the boys left us we have been so sad but we know our new Scotty will help heal our very sad hearts. We count the days!!! Loved reading all your posts. ❤️The Scotty Breed is definitely a very special one.
Nancy
We are expecting our puppy in June, a Scotty. Our boys both died this year, Murry and McTavish. The deep love and enjoyment we experienced is difficult to put into words. Since the boys left us we have been so sad but we know our new Scotty will help heal our very sad hearts. We count the days!!! Loved reading all your posts.
Louisa
I fell in love with a Scottish Terrier at the age of 6. At age 46 a rescue Scottie named Cana Bella Mia came into my life. She graced my life for a brief 33 months succumbing to T.C.C.. The past 23 years 7 more rescue Scotties have graced my life.
To me living LIFE to the fullest began with the arrival of Cana Bella Mia. I consider myself blessed beyond my wildest expectations thanks to my Scotties. I am a diehard Scottie Affectionato and a rescue advocate. I truly receive MORE than I give.
SCOTTIES RULE!
Stephen
Oh yes, Scotties are special creatures!
Our first – MacDuff – was ‘rescued’ from a pet store back early in the 80’s. Then we discovered Scottie Rescue, who over the years blessed us with Scotties who, for one reason or another, had been challenged to find a new “forever” home.
Nora Jane was our last, a broken girl who’d come from a hoarder, along with 13 siblings. Rescued after being dumped at a county shelter in 2010 they’d all been placed but Nora was brought back. We’d lost our Wallace a few weeks before Thanksgiving, I’d gone out to the Rescue to pick up another boy when the gal who runs the Rescue took Nora out of her cage, put her in my arms.
She promptly sighed, put her chin on my left shoulder, closed her eyes….
She passed last week after a long winter’s illness. Now it’s just the memories of all these wonderful souls I knew for awhile giving me any solace.
Jamielle McKusick
I have really enjoyed reading all of your memories of your Scotties. I had three serial Wire Fox Terriers. When a child we took in my sister’s Scottie. I tried to relate to it but I was at school all day and my Mother and other sister were working all day. The sister who had it did not work at all and so was home all day. When I got home I would find her in the back of my Mother’s closet in the dark and would not come out. I think she got terribly lonely and ran off. I have always felt bad about that.
Lucy
My husband and I got our first Scottie, Maggie, about 11 years ago through a rescue society brought from a puppy mill she was so tiny and scared. She had many skin issues but was soon looking good after intense care and love. She turned into a beautiful girl the love of our life. We lost her last year and I was desolate could not get over the loss. We are in our mid seventies and my husband thought we were too old. Nonsense I said we are getting another, he said I won’t have anything but a Scottie so I found one a ten week old male from breeder. McDuff is now 6 months old and a handful but he is wonderful already owning us.
debbie bouquin
I have had 3 Scotties in my life, Maggie was my first.she has been gone for 6 yrs now and I still miss her. now I have 2 sisters abby and Sadie and I just love them they also have a brother luke he is an Airedale. Sadie is 26 pds and luke is 85 pds Sadie is the boss she does not back down. she owns me I own abby and luke owns part of me
Robin Lynn Boyd
Oh, Ihave to do this. Yip, I’m going to brag! In your opening paragraph Westminster was mentioned. Well, vy the grace of God, Anstamm Kennels and Ms Cindy Cooke, I have Anstamm Black Magic Circe. Her Aunt, Mercedes (Sadie) won that shown in 2010. And her Dam (Sophie) took 2nd a few years back (Circe is a Justin/Sophie puppy) Circe does not show but she is the 1st Scottie to (to my knowledge) be a registered Hearing Assist (Full) Service Dog! She underwent special training (as do seeing eye dogs) snd theres a bit more to the process. Circe actually save me from getying hit vy a speeding truck. I didn’tsee it and couldn’t hear it… she did! All Scottish Terriers are awesome dogs. I’ve had a couple if the. My last girl wsd with me for 15 years. Yes, we had a golden too. Excellent ranch dog. Great protection… bet that rattler wishes it never tried to bite me. Well thanks for allowing me to carry in. Love your post!!
Robin
San Diego Ca
Susan
I can shed tears here with all my new Scotty friends after reading these I’m crying big tears . My husband surprised me with 2 Scotty babies black one named Noel. Wheaten named Jingle bell. They are my best friends I dearly love them I take them everywhere I go except church. Last year we even took them all the way to fox harbor resort in Nova Scotia . We live in Ky. That’s a lot of potty breaks. My last Scotty was a large Wheaton named ivory that passed away with cancer. My husband healed my heart quickly with jingle and Noel . We will always have Scottie’s . I’m starting a u tube channel very soon . A day in the life of 2 very happy Scottie’s ?♥️
Angela Nolan
I have been reading lots of posts.
I am a senior and my last dog was a springer. She was the light of my life. She was only 10 when she died of cancer.
I am from Scotland. But live in Ontario Canada.
I would love to own one of yourScotties. Maybe an older one.
The question is do you ship to canada? If not can you suggest a great breeder. Thank you so much
The Scottie is a very famous dog in Edinburgh. Sincerely Angela Nolan.
Joan Anderson
I have had wonderful Cairn terriers, rescued an elderly Westie, and then came Maggie, the Scottie. She was so wonderful. Her whole world was about playing ball…even using my ripe tomatoes for fetching. I was heartbroken when she died from liver complications at 8 1/2. I now have Katie Noel (born on Christmas Day 8 years ago). She is the sweetest companion and keeps me chuckling. I wanted a Scottie ever since I read the Little Golden Book about Dogs when I was a child. Terriers are such fun, and Scotties have my heart. Life is sad and dull without a little pal. Am currently looking for a white Scottie, hopefully a rescue.
Sally Ware
Scotties are keeper of our heart. I have had 5 scotties for over 40 yrs. My current girl IVY is the sweetest, active, loving. My Ivy is loved by all who meet her. My other girls are waiting for me at rainbow bridge. They were called Holly, Meghan, Miste and Piper. They have left paw prints on my heart. Ivy is in my heart. Ivy loves to play ball. Ihave been owned and loved and I loved all my sweet Scotties. Once you have a scottie you will be hooked. No other breed will do. Scotties Rule!!
Roger Spear
hi, i agree with the 10 reasons to love a Scotty!!! i have been owned by a Westie named Mickey, 2 scotties named Ziggy and Twiggy, we have our third Scotty named Jonas and he is a very special boy!!! Scotties are not for everyone but once you bond with one your life will never ever be the same!! my precious Westie inspired me to operate a pet transportation service in and out of Manhattan. we were on Fox News, channel 13, on a full page in the New York Times, we were on the BBC, Austrian TV, we were everywhere. i used to transport show dogs to and from Westminster. if you are thinking about being owned by a Scotty, try reaching out to a Scotty rescue near you, you will not regret it!!!
Joel Kettering
I enjoyed reading and related to everyone’s comments about loving Scotties. My wife and I have owned Scotties for over 30 years. They enjoy traveling in our motor coach, riding in bicycle baskets on rail trails, canoeing with life jackets, and going for brisk walks. Our last two Scotties Rocky and Reggie came from Cindy Cooke’s Anstamm Kennels. We recently lost Rocky to cancer. We knew it was coming and attempted to prepare ourselves for that day. We were not prepared. It was with tears that I read this blog. We have connected with Cindy Cooke and she has a puppy to fill the void in our family. Words cannot express our joy about receiving a new family addition. Reggie has his haircut , is ready to make the trip from Lancaster, PA to Kalamazoo, Michigan, and meet his new brother.
Brian McMillan
We adore being owned by Scotties our firs one was Bonny girl who crossed the bridge a few years ago then we got 2 puppies when they were 6 weeks old Sexy Sadie and Maggie May twin sisters. We lost Maggie about 6 months ago and her sister Sadie is almost 11. It’s heartbreaking when we lose one in fact I needed anxiety medicine when we lost Maggie. I swore there would be no more when Sadie goes but recently I’ve started looking at Scottie puppies the years of love make up for the pain of losing one. Of course we can’t just get one, they need a brother or sister to help train the new parents.
Brian McMillan
We adore being owned by Scotties our first one was Bonny girl who crossed the bridge a few years ago then we got 2 puppies when they were 6 weeks old Sexy Sadie and Maggie May twin sisters. We lost Maggie about 6 months ago and her sister Sadie is almost 11. It’s heartbreaking when we lose one in fact I needed anxiety medicine when we lost Maggie. I swore there would be no more when Sadie goes but recently I’ve started looking at Scottie puppies the years of love make up for the pain of losing one. Of course we can’t just get one, they need a brother or sister to help train the new parents.
Berry Chambless
It’s in fact very difficult in this active life to listen news on Television, so I simply use the web for that reason, and get the latest information.
Joy Oliver
I shoild love to have a scottie , as have had Cairns and Westies for 33 years
BUT how do I find a nice one in Rescue ?? sadly am a bit too old to have a puppy .. stlll very active and miss having a dog to walk ecery day ..
peggy burke
I reluctantly took my sisters blonde Scottie Betsy when I was 50, since she was not getting along with her sister Scottie Bridget. She was a bit shocked to go from Florida to Colorado – but now she rules the trails and loves rolling in the snow. I like that she is not a needy dog but sometimes getting loving attention is challenging. This girl is so smart. Betsy has been my true blue companion and her antics delight me every day. I can’t imagine ever having another dog that’s not a Scottish terrier. And I’m kind of attached to the blonde, since I can see her facial features so well!
Lawrence Maldonado
Love them like crazy mine just passed away from cancer the hardest decision I had to make for him I miss him so much part of my heart hurts everyday thinking about him his lovely face to his stubbornness had him 12 years unconditional love and bond we had miss and love you my best friend,. See you one day
Suzie Tooman
Getting my little guy in a couple weeks… Murdoch… Murri for short… Can’t wait!!
Duncan McIntyre
Our Scottie, Archie, was laid to rest on April 5, 2021 and I can’t begin to tell you how much I miss him. He was hands down the best dog I’ve ever had. He stole my heart and I had his and I am only now to the point to think about getting another Scottie dog. That’s how great a pet and companion they are.
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