Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier emerged from the tough, short-legged terriers used for centuries in the Scottish Highlands to pursue foxes, badgers, rats, and other quarry. Early Scottish terriers were working dogs rather than standardized breeds, and several modern breeds developed from this broad population. During the 19th century, dog shows and organized breeding encouraged enthusiasts to separate these terriers into recognizable types. The dog that became the Scottish Terrier was sometimes called the Aberdeen Terrier, reflecting the area where some influential dogs and breeders were found. By the late 1800s, a recognizable standard had emerged, emphasizing the breed's low body, strong head, harsh coat, and characteristic furnishings around the face. Scotties became particularly fashionable during the 20th century and had several famous owners. U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt's Scottie, Fala, became so well known that the dog later appeared alongside Roosevelt in his memorial in Washington, D.C. The breed also became one of the playing pieces in classic versions of Monopoly. Beneath that cultural fame is a genuine working-terrier background: the Scottie's independence, determination, digging instinct, and willingness to stand its ground all make sense for a dog developed to confront quarry underground.