Is the Scottish Terrier a good family dog?

Scottish Terriers are known for being confident, independent, spirited. They are generally considered adaptable with children. As with all breeds, supervised interaction with young children is recommended.

How much exercise does a Scottish Terrier need daily?

Scottish Terriers need regular daily exercise — typically 45–60 minutes — to stay healthy and well-behaved.

Small breed Regular energy Wire coat Terrier Group

Scottish Terrier

Confident, Independent, Spirited

The well-known Scottie silhouette is that of a short-legged but substantial terrier with distinctive furnishings at the beard, legs, and lower body. The wiry topcoat and soft, dense undercoat coat can be black, wheaten yellow, or a brindle-stripe pattern. Bright, piercing eyes, a…

⚖️ 18–22 lbs 📏 10–10" 🎂 12–12 years 🧠 Intelligence #65 — below-average

Estimate Scottish Terrier costs Find Scottish Terrier names

Energy

60%

Shedding

40%

Trainability

40%

Grooming

60%

Friendliness

60%

Coat Type

Wire coat 2-3 Times a Week Brushing

🧠 #65

Intelligence

🎂 10.7yr

Average lifespan

💰 $18K

Lifetime cost

🍖 $324/yr

Annual food estimate

👨‍👩‍👧 Great

With kids

🩺 1

Known conditions

Known genetic concerns: blood clotting disorder

Scottish Terrier food & nutrition tools

Chef Paw (US) · Appliances

ChefPaw Dog Food Maker

Revolutionary countertop pet food maker, simplifying the process of crafting fresh and highly-nutrit…

$639.98 Shop now →

Affiliate link — no extra cost to you

Scottish Terrier training & walking gear

🐾

JugBow · Training

JugBow No-Pull Training Harness

Dual-clip training harness with front and back D-rings. Reflective stitching, padded chest plate, an…

$34.99 Shop now →

Affiliate link — no extra cost to you

For Scottish Terrier owners

Crown and Paw · Gifts

The Veteran - Custom Pet Canvas

Premium 8" x 10" custom pet canvas. Turn your pet into a legendary military veteran.

$46.86 Shop now →

Affiliate link — no extra cost to you

Affiliate disclosure: PupWiki may earn a commission from qualifying partner links, at no extra cost to you. Availability and pricing can change.

Benefits from 30-60 minutes daily exercise — walks, play sessions, or swimming.

Brush 2-3× weekly to maintain coat condition and reduce shedding around the home.

Recommended for experienced owners — higher owner difficulty rating of 8/10.
Urban-friendly: adapts well to apartment or townhouse living when daily exercise is consistent.
Naturally energetic and independent, this breed fits best with early socialization and clear routines.
Working heritage means structured activity matters — under-stimulation can lead to problem behaviors.