Fetch Finder
At a glance
| Energy level | |
|---|---|
| Shedding | |
| Grooming needs | |
| Apartment-friendly | |
| Handles cold | |
| Affectionate / cuddly | |
| Good with kids | |
| Good for first-time owners | |
| Easy to train | |
| Good with other dogs | |
| Good with cats | |
| OK being left alone | |
| Reliable off-leash | |
| Protective / watchdog | |
| Barking | |
| Drooling |
Great for
- Apartments
- Adults and older kids
- People who want a confident small dog
Watch out for
- Stubborn
- Can be aloof
- Not great with other dogs
Daily care
Exercise: 30–60 minutes a day.
Grooming: Brush weekly; trim or strip every few months.
Cold weather: Wiry coat handles cold well.
*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.
Gear for a Scottish Terrier
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- FoodSmall breed dog food
Formulas made for small breeds match their energy needs and kibble size. Look for "complete and balanced" (AAFCO) on the bag, and ask your vet what's right for your dog.
See options on Amazon - Crate24-inch dog crate
A 24" crate fits most adult Scottish Terriers (up to about 22 lb). Choose one with a divider so it grows with a puppy.
See options on Amazon - Leash and harnessNo-pull harness and 6-foot leash
A front-clip harness helps with pulling while your dog learns leash manners.
See options on Amazon - ToysPuzzle and snuffle toys
Food puzzles keep a calmer dog's mind busy without a lot of running.
See options on Amazon - GroomingBristle or rubber grooming brush
A quick weekly brush keeps the coat clean and shiny.
See options on Amazon - WinterPaw balm
Protects paws from road salt and ice, even on cold-tolerant breeds.
See options on Amazon - BedWashable dog bed
A washable cover makes life easier, especially with a puppy.
See options on Amazon
Find a Scottish Terrier near you
We're building a list of trusted Scottish Terrier rescues, breeders and trainers. Rescues are listed first.
Listings coming soon. In the meantime:
- Search adoptable dogs near you on Petfinder
- AKC's Scottish Terrier page, which links to breed club rescue networks
Run a Scottish Terrier rescue, training or grooming business? Get listed free.
Not sure a Scottish Terrier is right for you? Take the 3-minute quiz to see which breeds fit your home and lifestyle.
Take the breed quizSimilar breeds
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Small · 13–18 lb👪 Great family dogCavalier King Charles SpanielSweet, gentle and adaptable. Cavaliers are happy in an apartment or a house and get along with almost everyone.
Small · 17–23 lbBetter with adults or older kidsShiba InuClean, confident and independent, with a thick coat built for cold. Shibas fit apartments well but are stubborn and hard to train.