Judy Taylor
Hailing from Skye, the largest island in the Inner Hebrides, the Skye Terrier was originally bred to hunt foxes, badgers, and otters. He is said to be the oldest Scottish terrier, but this has not been 100% proven.
That is The Skye Terrier
On the other hand, his rather idiosyncratic character, which demands a lot of patience and consistency in training from the dog owner, is demonstrable. Once he has recognized his mistress or master, the Skye Terrier is an affable and lovable member of the house, but extremely wary or dismissive of strangers. He, therefore, defends his people and his property quite vehemently, which is why the small Scotsman is also an excellent guard dog.
The Skye Terrier can do without children, especially small ones. However, its owner should be fit, because the robust little one needs a lot of exercise and activity. He should never lose sight of the fact that his four-legged friend has a strong hunting instinct. Hamsters, mice, decorative rabbits, and guinea pigs should therefore never be left unsupervised in the same room with a Skye Terrier. This terrier also gets along with other dogs – regardless of their size.
The dog, which is self-confident in every respect, also intensively demands the desired attention. If he feels neglected, he draws attention to himself by barking loudly. If that doesn’t help, the Skye Terrier resorts to setting a record in digging or nibbling on objects.
The Look of the Skye Terrier
The Skye Terrier is a low-standing dog that grows up to 26 centimeters tall. It is twice as long as it is high, which gave it enormous advantages when hunting in fox and badger dens. It has long, smooth fur of varying lighter colors with black markings on its ears.
Important Care
The Skye Terrier has a smooth top coat and a thick undercoat. He should be brushed at least once a week and given a bath every two to three weeks.
The Story of the Skye Terrier
The Skye Terrier was bred more than 400 years ago and is, therefore, one of the oldest Scottish terriers, although it also had other names such as the Clydesdale Terrier, and Glasgow Terrier, or Paisley Terrier. Originally kept as a dog for hunting foxes, badgers, and otters, the Skye Terrier became a popular dog in aristocratic circles because Queen Victoria of England kept and bred them. It was recognized as a breed in 1887 but is rarely bred today.
