Bradenton Dog

characteristics

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Breed Profile: Scottish Terrier

by Alisha Corsi

Scottish Terriers, or Scotties, are a highland breed of terrier originating in Scotland. They are known for their distinctive beards and eyebrows. Beloved by Scottish and English royalty for centuries, the Scottie only recently made their American debut in the 1890’s, but quickly became a favorite of American presidents as well. Scotties are the only breed who have lived in the White House three times, with Presidents Roosevelt, Eisenhower, and George W. Bush. Former First Dog Barney Bush, who only recently lost his battle with lymphoma, was one of two Scotties who spent 8 years in the White House with President Bush. And Fala Roosevelt was so famous that he is the only pet to ever be memorialized in a statue in Washington, D.C. with his famous pet parent!

FDR and his beloved Fala

Physical Traits

Size & Weight: Scotties are small, compact dogs, standing at 10-11 inches at the shoulders, and weighing between 19-23 pounds.

Coat & Color: Scotties have hard, wiry outer coats with soft, dense undercoats. Their coats can be any color except for white, although dark brown to black is most common.

Life Expectancy: 12-15 years

Temperament

Scotties are small, hardy, loveable dogs with big personalities. Nicknamed “Diehard” for their endless determination, Scotties are independent and self-assured. However, this doesn’t mean that they don’t love people—Scotties are charming dogs who make loving, gentle members of the family. They have a strong desire for approval, and don’t respond well to harsh words or punishment, so it’s best to use positive reinforcement when training.

Something to Bark About: Scotties have won Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show a total of nine times, second only to the Wire Fox Terrier. And they’re are not just favorites of world leaders and world-class dog shows—recently fans of the classic Monopoly board game voted the Scottie dog game piece the most popular of the original tokens!

 

Wags

  • If you’re looking for a dog that will reward your love with a lifetime of devotion, this is the dog for you! Scotties are known for becoming fiercely attached to the select few people they bond with.
  • Scotties shed little to none.
  • Scotties make great watch dogs, family pets, and companions—the total package (Not to mention they’re quite handsome)!

Yelps

  • Because of their spirited nature they require regular exercise. They should always be walked on a leash, as their chase instinct is strong.
  • Because they were originally bred to hunt vermin, Scotties are natural-born diggers and so they should be monitored if let outdoors.
  • Scotties can be stubborn, and need to be trained and socialized from a young age.

To adopt a Scottish Terrier of your own, please visit Scottish Terrier Rescue of the Southeast for more information.

 

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Breed Profile: Shetland Sheepdog

By Alisha Corsi

One of the brightest dogs in the world, Shetland Sheepdogs, or “Shelties” as they are more commonly called, are known for their keen sense of intelligence and intense loyalty (think of a smaller version of Lassie). As athletic as they are smart, Shelties excel in agility and herding competitions, but are most successful when it comes to winning the hearts of their human families with their loving personalities.

photo by: Kelsee Dupras

Physical Traits

Size & Weight: Shelties stand between 13-16 inches at the shoulder, and weigh between 11-31 pounds, with males generally being larger and heavier than females.

Coat & Color: Shelties have a double coat. Their topcoats are long, straight, and water-repellent, while the undercoat is short, furry, and very dense. Shelties usually shed their coats in clumps, making them easier to groom than other smooth-haired dogs. Their coats come in three different colors: black, blue merle, and sable, with sable being the most common.

Life Expectancy: 12-15 years

Temperament

Shelties are exceptionally intelligent dogs, ranking 6th out of 123 breeds. They learn new commands quickly, obeying a command the first time more than 95% of the time. For this reason Shelties are one of the most successful obedience dogs. They are also herders, and are so adept at it that they can often be found attempting (and often succeeding) at herding people! In addition to their performance skills, Shelties are very devoted and docile dogs who make great family pets. While not as intimidating as some other dog breeds, their intense loyalty to their owners make them excellent watch dogs.

Travis, A Sarasota Dog

Something to Bark About: The original working sheepdogs of Shetland are now extinct, and have been replaced by Border Collies. In fact, the Shetland Sheepdog as it is now known has never been used as a working dog on Shetland, and ironically, these dogs are very rare there!

Wags

  • Shelties may just be the total package when it comes to dogs, possessing brains, beauty, and loyalty—need I say more?
  • Shelties are alert and have a keen sense of understanding.
  • Diverse in their talents, Shelties are great at herding, agility competitions, and simply loving on their families.
  • Great with kids if reared with them from a young age.

Challenges

  • Shelties require lots of exercise and mental stimulation. Ignoring this may lead to the development of bad behaviors, such as excessive barking, nervousness, and phobias.
  • Shelties will herd anything, including cars, so owners must constantly be watchful.
  • Can sometimes be aloof with strangers, so they must be socialized at a young age.

If you’re ready to welcome a Sheltie into your family, find a list of Sheltie rescue groups near you at nationalsheltierescue.org.

Check out this amazing Sheltie we saw at a local pet event.