Scottish Terrier vs Skye Terrier

Terrier · Small vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Skye Terrier is the larger breed at 35–45 lbs (males) vs 19–22 lbs for the Scottish Terrier.
  • The Scottish Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Scottish Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitScottish TerrierSkye Terrier
Group
TerrierTerrier
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
ScotlandScotland
Height (male)
10"10"
Height (female)
10"9.5"
Weight (male)
19–22 lbs35–45 lbs
Weight (female)
18–21 lbs25–35 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier is an independent, confident, spirited terrier from the Scottish Highlands — the original 'Scottie'. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 19–22 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as confident, independent, spirited.

About the Skye Terrier

The Skye Terrier is a courageous, canny, fearless Scottish island terrier — once Queen Victoria's favorite, now rare. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 35–45 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, canny, fearless.

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Scottish Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Scotty cramp
  • Von Willebrand's disease
  • Bladder cancer

Skye Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hyperthyroidism