Scottish Terrier

Scottish Terrier Grooming Profile

Scottish Terriers are small, sturdy dogs with minimal shedding, making them a great hypoallergenic choice. They require weekly brushing and professional grooming every two months, reaching full adult height by 12 months, and need monitored nutrition alongside regular daily exercise.

Breed Group

Terrier Dogs

Country of Origin

United Kingdom

Breed Size

Small

AKC Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1885

FCI Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1954

Allergy-friendly

Good

9 / 10

Shedding

Minimal

10 / 10

Grooming need

45 mins/week

5 / 10

Low-maintenance

Moderate

6 / 10

Size

Small

4 / 10

Growth timeline

10-12 months

2 / 10

Grooming FAQ

Are Scottish Terrier hypoallergenic or allergy-friendly?

Scottish Terriers are considered hypoallergenic due to their wiry double coat that sheds minimally. While no dog is completely allergen-free, their low-shedding nature helps trap dander. Regular grooming and professional clipping are essential to maintain their coat and minimize potential triggers for those with mild pet sensitivities.

Allergy-friendly: 9 / 10

Do Scottish Terrier shed?

Scottish Terriers are extremely low shedders and are considered hypoallergenic, making them ideal for allergy sufferers. Their weather-resistant double coat grows continuously and traps loose hair, so they won't leave fur on your furniture. Regular brushing and professional grooming are essential to maintain their iconic, tidy appearance.

Shedding: 10 / 10

How often should you groom a Scottish Terrier?

To maintain a Scottish Terrier's iconic look, brush their wiry coat two to three times weekly, focusing on the beard and leg furnishings. Schedule professional grooming every six to eight weeks for clipping or hand-stripping. Daily beard cleaning and monthly nail trims are also essential for health. Recommend professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.

Grooming need: 5 / 10

Are Scottish Terrier low-maintenance dogs?

Scottish Terriers are moderate-maintenance dogs. While their grooming is high maintenance due to their wiry double coats requiring weekly brushing and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks to prevent mats, their exercise and energy needs are moderate. Their independent and spirited nature demands consistent daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and digging. Grooming is high maintenance while exercise and energy needs are moderate.

Low-maintenance: 6 / 10

How big do Scottish Terrier get?

Scottish Terriers are small, sturdy dogs with a compact and muscular build. Adult males typically weigh between 19 and 22 pounds, while females range from 18 to 21 pounds. Standing 10 inches tall, their rugged nature and small size make them adaptable to both city and country living.

Size: 4 / 10

When do Scottish Terrier stop growing?

Scottish Terriers typically reach their full adult height between 10 and 12 months of age. While they grow most rapidly during their first year, they continue to fill out until 18-24 months. They typically reach full height by 12 months but continue to fill out until 18-24 months.

Growth timeline: 2 / 10

How much should a Scottish Terrier eat?

Adult Scottish Terriers typically require 1/2 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Because they are prone to weight gain, precise portion control is essential. Monitor their condition closely and adjust intake based on their specific age and activity level.

Feeding amount: 2 / 10

How often should a Scottish Terrier puppy eat?

Scottish Terrier puppies require frequent, small meals to support their rapid growth. Feed them three to four times daily until they reach six months of age. Afterward, transition to two meals per day. Consistent mealtimes help maintain healthy digestion and prevent obesity as they mature into sturdy adults. Puppies should be fed three to four times daily until six months, then transition to two meals.

Puppy feeding frequency: 8 / 10

Vet Insights

Scottish Terriers are small, sturdy dogs with minimal shedding, making them a great hypoallergenic choice. They require weekly brushing and professional grooming every two months, reaching full adult height by 12 months, and need monitored nutrition alongside regular daily exercise.

Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
VeterinarianResearcherDog breed specialist
Verified