Skye Terrier

                                                           Skye Terrier

AKA:NA
Origin:Isle of Skye off the Scottish Coast
Size:Small/Medium
Ease of training:Low
Grooming:Medium
Shedding:Medium
Exercise needed:Daily walks
Energy level:Low/Medium
Protection:Medium
Good with children:Yes, with gentle, older children
Health clearances:OFA
Popularity:146/155

Skye Terrier Temperament

Lively yet laid back, the Skye Terrier is a courageous dog with fierce loyalty and devotion when it comes to his family. The Skye Terrier often forms a particularly close with one person, and is very in tune with the emotions of his owner. These dogs thrive on the attention and love of their owners, and need plenty of attention and devotion - this is not the right choice for those with little time to devote to a pet. Early socialization is recommended with this breed, as some can grow to be suspicious. Many can also be stubborn and bossy, and need an owner with confidence and assertiveness making them best suited to those with some experience of dog ownership. A fairly small dog with plenty of character, the Skye Terrier is adaptable and independent.

The Skye Terrier is not an overly active dog, but will enjoy regular walks and interactive play. He does tend to chase other animals, and is fast and agile, so you should ensure that he has a safe and secure area in which to exercise when not on leash. The Skye Terrier does not like to be handled roughly, and is therefore best suited around children that are gentle and older. He is naturally suspicious around strangers, and although his suspicious attitude needs to be watched it can also make him an effective watchdog. Early socialization is also required around other animals, as the Skye Terrier can be bossy around other dogs and will chase smaller animals including cats.

Skye Terrier Appearance

The Skye Terrier is a short, small to medium sized dog, and is actually far hardier and studier than he looks. He has a double coat, with a soft undercoat and a straight, flat outer coat. This is a long dog, and is twice as long as he is high. The coloring of the Skye Terrier can be fawn, gray, blue, silver, black, or cream. The height of the Skye Terrier is 10-12 inches for females and 11-14 inches for males. In terms of weight the Skye Terrier reaches around 25-40 pounds.

Skye Terrier Grooming

The grooming requirements for the Skye Terrier are moderate, and you will need to brush and comb his coat several times a week to keep it in good condition. You may want to get the coat trimmed to keep it a little shorter. The Skye Terrier is a medium shedder, and may therefore be unsuitable for those with allergies.

Skye Terrier Health Problems and Life Expectancy

The Skye Terrier has a life expectancy of around 12-14 years, and there are a number of health problems to look out for with this breed. This includes thyroid problems, HD, allergies, cancer, autoimmune problems, and spinal issues. Premature closure of growth plate can also result from puppies jumping around too much, and this can lead to arthritis later in life. The parents of the Skye Terrier puppy should have OFA certificates.

Skye Terrier History

The Skye Terrier originates from the Isle of Skye off the Scottish Coast, and has a history that dates back to the seventeenth century. One of the oldest terrier breeds, the Skye Terrier was bred to hunt vermin, but later became a favorite pet of the rich and the royal. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1887.