My Dog Training Secrets 

Scottish Terriers are hardy dogs, and like many terriers, were used extensively for going to ground in pursuit of their prey. Scottish terriers aren't especially noisy, just enough to be good watch dogs. They don't shed much, and don't need much grooming, so long as they are given a regular trim. Scottish Terriers are a breed of dog best known for their distinctive profile and their die-hard spirit. Scotties are fast and have a muscular body, often appearing to be barrel-chested. A Scottie has a quite particular look which makes it resemble an old English colonel.

Scotties were originally bred to hunt badgers in the Highlands of Scotland. They were also bred with strong tails so that their owners could pull them out of holes when they would dig after vermin and voles. Scottish Terriers are very good watchdogs, but need to be keep secured as they have a tendency to wander. Your Scottie needs to be leashed in urban settings because cars often hit them.

Scottish Terriers are keen at digging holes, like most terriers, whose name derives from the same root as "terre", French for "earth". Scottish terriers are highly intelligent and independent, making them somewhat more difficult to train than other breeds. These same traits make basic obedience and manners training especially important. They can be snappy and bossy if left untrained, but will be a loyal and faithful pet if trained well.

Scottish Terriers are dogs who know their place and it's everywhere. That is, they are territorial and not afraid of anything. Scottish Terriers are not large dogs, usually not more than 12" at the shoulder and not more than 23 pounds, although pet stock may run a very few pounds larger.

Scotties are not for everyone. Do your research on this breed and any other breed you may be considering. They do best with experienced owners who have the patience to gently train and bring out the best in this proud breed. Scottish Terriers have small, compact, sturdy frames covered in coarse, wiry, weatherproof coats that usually come in black, brindle or wheaten colors. Their long heads have full muzzles, square jaws, pointy ears and widely set eyes. Scotties are rugged-looking dogs with a wirey outer coat supplemented by a soft, thick undercoat. The undercoat keeps them warm while the outer coat helps protect them from the elements.

Scotties are intensely curious, independent, active and agile. Intelligent as well as playful, they are loyal, loving companions and excellent watchdogs. Scotties are very independent and have a high self esteem. Scotties are not really dangerous dogs by any means. As with most dogs and children, they live what they learn. They are a popular family dog. They are often a "one person" or "one family" breed. They are generally very willing to go anywhere and do anything...the sort of dog that will settle in wherever it is as long as it is with its human companion to whom it gives its total and true devotion.

Scotties have a particular health problem known as "Scotty Cramp," a sort of a short seizure which remains a problem with the breed although studies relating to this problem have been done and progress is being made. It is important that when breeding, dogs with this familial tendency not be used for breeding. An average litter consists of 3-5 puppies.

One other thing you might remember... Miss Beazley. She was President George W. and Laura Bush's dog at the White House. Just watching Miss Beazley, and you know how well behaved a Scottie dog can be.

Finally, obedience training must be consistent but persuasive. Do not push this breed too far; never hit a terrier and do not play aggressive games like wrestling and tug-of-war. Obedience training is not difficult, because they are extremely intelligent, but it must be enforced by both positive enforcement and negative consequences. They can learn both basic commands and tricks, as long as the owner knows a little bit about dog training.