In ancient times, in Scotland, when the country fought for its independence, the dogs did not really care. However, animals sometimes rescued people. So, a special variety - terriers - ate rodents, which saved the harvest. Many men took them with them to hunt, and dogs coped well with this role. But even then, some literary sources mentioned the Scottish breed, but the emphasis was not on appearance, but on working qualities. As a result, many varieties of Scottish terriers appeared. Sometimes even in the same litter puppies were different in appearance. However, over time, breed standards began to appear. Thanks to the efforts of the breeders and the selection work done, a scotch terrier was bred, with special requirements for the appearance and character of which.
Famous ancestors
Initially, the dogs looked a little different. The body was more elongated. At the same time, the coat - a special pride of the terrier - is coarser and shorter. The color was also different. Initially, all dogs of this breed were variegated. There was also a tiger color.
Over time, the scotch terrier gained its fans. Among the famous people who started these dogs are mentioned Charlie Chaplin, President Roosevelt, General Eisenhower and scientist Einstein.
Breed features
To protect the crop and lure foxes out of the holes, Scotch terrier was originally used. The description of the breed of a modern animal is completely different from the previous ones. Now they are not used for hunting purposes, and the main purpose is a companion dog.
However, instincts make themselves felt. Therefore, it is worth providing the dog with sufficient physical activity and a long walk. A pet may become ill from a lack of movement.
Funny, loving and mobile - all these epithets are most often received by an adhesive tape terrier. The description of the breed in reality is slightly different from the typical representation of ordinary inhabitants. Dogs are pretty wayward and often stubborn. When educating them, it is necessary to show firmness, but they will not tolerate disrespectful attitude either.
You must understand that the scotch terrier is not very suitable for families with children. The fact is that the dog will obey only its immediate owner, which feeds, walks and trains. Other family members, and especially the smallest ones, are indifferent and often ignore them, showing disobedience.
Most often, the animal is recommended for purchase by a single person or family, where someone alone will be engaged in education. In this case, the pet will become a real friend for the owner.
Accepted standard
Cynological communities have their own parameters that a dog must comply with. Scotch terrier, the standard of which is strictly described, should look like this:
- Head. Harmoniously elongated, occupying about 2/3 of the entire length of the body. The forehead is clearly defined, but the transition to the muzzle is not sharp. To the nose there is a gradual narrowing. Due to the special setting of the head, the presence of a mustache and an elongated nose, there is a feeling of unevenly located jaws. The cheekbones are fairly flat, but have strength. Lips are tight and dry. The teeth form the correct bite.
- Eyes. They look slightly slanted and have moderate depth. The amygdala is very expressive. Pigmentation of the pupils is richly brown. The puppy's eyes are smart and clear.
- Body. The dog has short legs, so the body resembles an elongated rectangle. The muscles of the neck are well developed, the staging is high. The chest is quite voluminous and pronounced forbrust. The back of the scotch terrier is short, but the withers are quite massive, and the croup is also very well developed.
- Tail. The tail does not stop at the breed. It is wide over the entire length. Put closer to the back.
A special pride of a dog is its coat.
Color and features of the hairline
The skin of the dog has no folds, but is completely pigmented. It has a rather thick and soft undercoat. The main hair is quite hard, thick and long. The highlight is the mustache and eyebrows. Also on the legs there are thick bouffant. Especially thick and long hair is located in the groin area.
Colors of scotch terriers can be different. The official dog service standard recognizes the following:
- Solid - black or wheat.
- Mixed - brindle, grizzly, badger. In this case, the main shade can be brown, wheat or deer.
- Pepper with salt - in this case, black hair is evenly mixed with gray.
Anyone who purchases a puppy for breeding should know that a spot on his chest is allowed, but combining it with a spot on his face is already a big drawback.
Character description
The character of the scotch terrier can be described as masterful, proud and somewhat stubborn. An animal is sometimes suspicious of strangers. However, if a person does not persistently attract attention, then the dog’s attitude will change. The main thing is not to rush the pet, because its character is suspicious and cautious. Hunting instincts prevail. The dog is a good protector and guard. In case of danger, does not run away cowardly, but rushes to protect the owner or territory.
Scotch terrier gets along well in the apartment. He can be left alone for a long time alone and at the same time he will not arrange a pogrom. It is important that, sitting at home, he does not whine, but calmly waits for the owner. Therefore, claims from neighbors usually do not arise. When meeting, the dog often "smiles." In this case, she funnily wrinkles her nose and bares her teeth.
However, it must be remembered that in ancient times the breed was a hunting one. Therefore, a long wait should end with an active and long walk in the fresh air. It’s good not only to walk along the tracks, but also to play with the dog.
How to choose a puppy
A scotch terrier puppy is always inquisitive, active, and when outsiders appear fearless. You should be wary if, seeing a stranger, a puppy tries to hide from his eyes and take refuge in a secluded corner.
It is necessary to examine the pet. Despite the fact that all possible hereditary diseases will appear only in 4-5 years of life, it is now possible to identify congenital deafness and developmental problems.
An external examination should pay attention to the skin. Her folds are easy to assemble, and the coat is silky. Eyes must be clean and clear, ears - without a hint of inflammation. When examining the groin and armpits, it is necessary to exclude the slightest redness.
Pedigree
If you plan to buy a puppy for breeding and participation in exhibitions, it is important to have a full package of documents. If the seller offers to do without a pedigree, but is significantly inferior in price, it is worth agreeing if the dog starts as a friend. But in this case, it is necessary to require documentation on the pedigree. If you want to breed puppies, you will need to fix all mating, and at the same time, the control of the process by the representative of the cynological club is mandatory.
It must be understood that the animal does not start for one day. All the years that Scotch terriers live (about 15 years), the pet will only bring joy and benefit if you pay attention to its documentation on time.
It is worth considering that the breed is not widespread in Russia. This fact has its pros and cons. The advantage is that a rare number of breeders maintains clean breed more. The disadvantage is manifested in the long search for a pair for breeding and a suitable puppy for breeding.
Features of education
Usually the dogs of this breed are quite friendly and are good to all family members. But in their character severe Scottish features, inherited from their ancestors, are manifested. You should not expect from the scotch terrier special tenderness, playfulness and flirting. However, in relation to its owner, the dog is of particular interest and requires increased attention.
Training a scotch terrier involves his education literally from infancy. If this rule is neglected, the puppy will become spoiled, uncontrollable and willful. Given the rather large fangs and the force of compression of the jaws, competent training should be given a lot of time. The dog is required to achieve unconditional obedience.
Animal training
Considering the nature of the dog, dog handlers recommend praising the pet more and applying the “gingerbread” policy rather than using the “stick”. Otherwise, a positive result can and will be achieved, but a friend will not come out of the animal.
Training, as a rule, does not cause difficulties with a competent approach. Terriers are savvy and high intelligence. However, do not forget that in the past these dogs were hunters, therefore fearlessness in their character. At first glance, the pets look like harmless creatures, but in reality there have been cases when the scotch terrier fought with his offender to the end. In addition, the dog is not deprived of physical strength and to some extent viciousness.
Content
Scottish Terriers are considered an unpretentious breed. They can be kept in an apartment or a private house. Thick hair and undercoat allows the dog not to freeze, so a warmed aviary is suitable for her. However, in cold weather it is recommended to let the dog into the house. It should be noted that active walks should be at least once a day, even if the animal lives in the yard.
If the pet does not go hunting, then he needs enhanced training. So that the dog does not come off at home, all dog sports are required. As for the collar, dog handlers recommend using harness for pets under the age of one year. Then you can buy a regular collar and with a jerk loop. The latter is necessary for training. Such a device does not give a strong load on the spine, but allows you to abruptly interrupt the undesirable effect.
Haircut features
Despite the fact that the hair of the scotch terrier is very long, especially in the groin area, they practically do not fade. But the undercoat is discarded in spring and autumn. This is because the remaining hair does not fall out, it becomes tough and coarse. Therefore, cutting a scotch terrier requires regular trimming. Without this procedure, the hair will become very stiff and ugly, forming a kind of carapace.
Previously, when dogs lived in the wild, this feature protected them. But in an apartment or house, it can lead to various dermatitis. Therefore, experts recommend trimming the pet's hair at least once every six months. However, the procedure is difficult to carry out independently - it is better to entrust it to the master. This is especially true for animals that participate in exhibitions and are representatives of their pedigree.
It should be understood that an improper haircut of the scotch terrier will contribute to:
- a change in the shape of the silhouette, which is completely unacceptable by established standards;
- dead hair may appear to the touch;
- accents give the dog the wrong look.
But if trimming is required for show animals, then pets can completely do with combing and regular haircuts.
Hair care
The scotch terrier loves to swim, so regular procedures will not be difficult. However, in winter, it is necessary to limit this procedure. Experienced breeders recommend purchasing a special protective suit for slushy weather, this will protect the animal's coat from pollution and will not require constant washing
In the summer, constant swimming is allowed in proven ponds and a home bath. To make the coat soft and silky, it is necessary to purchase shampoos for hard and thick coat. Periodically, a therapeutic shampoo against parasites should be used.
Veterinarians warn that if a peculiar smell of a dog comes from a pet, then this indicates a malfunction in feeding or ill-considered care. A healthy dog, which is regularly looked after and which offers a balanced diet, practically does not smell.
What to feed
The breed is prone to the manifestation of atopic dermatitis. Moreover, the problem can develop both from poor care, and due to feeding from poor quality bowls. The food for the scotch terrier should be balanced, but you can transfer your pet to healthy homemade food. If packs from a series of holistic or super-premium are purchased, then additional enrichment with vitamins is not required. Otherwise, it is recommended to offer the pet vitamin and mineral complexes.
Pet health
The usual life expectancy of a dog of this breed is about 15 years. However, with good care, good nutrition and regular physical activity, pets can live up to 18 years. When choosing a puppy, the main thing is to carefully consider his pedigree. Only in this case, you can eat up a strong immunity. In order to minimize all possible diseases, it is recommended to do the necessary vaccinations.
You should pay attention to the frequent walks and food that the scotch terrier receives. His weight should always be normal, because obesity often causes problems with the thyroid gland.
Bitches may experience birth problems. It is recommended to involve a specialist in this process. On days 20-25, congenital deafness can be diagnosed in puppies.
Conclusion
All in all, a very friendly and convivial scotch terrier. Owner reviews indicate that you can communicate with the dog on an equal footing and, if you do not require unquestioning obedience, it is very interesting to observe the characteristics of the character.
Of course, her upbringing and training requires special skill and patience, but the breed is absolutely adequate and good at listening to its master with respect for her.