One of the oldest types of terriers, the Skye Terrier originated in the 1600s when a Spanish ship crashed off an island called Skye. Maltese dogs were on the boat and were mated with terriers of that native land. They were revered for their ability to hunt rats, fox and badger that would plague livestock of the local farmers. The Skye Terrier enjoyed popularity in the 19th century among nobility thanks to Queen Victoria.
The Skye Terrier grows to a height of 10 inches, with a weight for males of 35 to 40 pounds and for females of 25 to 30 pounds. This dog is long and low, with a tapered muzzle, black nose, brown eyes, erect or dropped ears, long tail, large feet and double coat that's solid in black, blue, cream or gray. Some dogs may have small white patches on the chest with black markings on the ears and tip of the tail.
Personality
This good-natured breed is loyal, polite and affectionate, with a bold and playful nature. It enjoys getting plenty of affection and therefore loves children. This breed is also bold and brave, but it can become quite willful if its owner is too passive. This dog needs a firm, confident owner who will enforce discipline. It socializes well not only with humans but also with noises and sights. Part of its nature is to take chase, so avoid letting it and small dogs in a large space together. If not taught its status under the pack leader, this dog can exhibit aggressiveness, suspicion of strangers, over-protectiveness, barking and biting.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 12 - 15 years |
| Nicknames: | Clydesdale Terrier, Paisley Terrier, Fancy Skye Terrier, Glasgow Terrier, Silky Skye Terrier |
Skye Terrier Build Information
The Skye Terrier grows to a height of 10 inches, with a weight for males of 35 to 40 pounds and for females of 25 to 30 pounds. This dog is long and low, with a tapered muzzle, black nose, brown eyes, erect or dropped ears, long tail, large feet and double coat that's solid in black, blue, cream or gray. Some dogs may have small white patches on the chest with black markings on the ears and tip of the tail.
| Size: | Medium |
Behaviour and Personality
This good-natured breed is loyal, polite and affectionate, with a bold and playful nature. It enjoys getting plenty of affection and therefore loves children. This breed is also bold and brave, but it can become quite willful if its owner is too passive. This dog needs a firm, confident owner who will enforce discipline. It socializes well not only with humans but also with noises and sights. Part of its nature is to take chase, so avoid letting it and small dogs in a large space together. If not taught its status under the pack leader, this dog can exhibit aggressiveness, suspicion of strangers, over-protectiveness, barking and biting.
| Activity Level: | Moderately active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Kid friendly |
Appearance
If your Skye Terrier has a long coat, you'll need to brush it frequently to keep it from matting. You may choose to clip the coat so it's easier to manage. Bathe as necessary but don't overdo it so as to avoid dry and itchy skin. Expect this breed to be an average shedder.
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | Medium maintenance |
Skye Terrier Common Health Conditions
This breed is a relatively healthy one; however, it is prone to autoimmune disease, breast cancer, degenerative disc disease, hemangiosarcoma, hip and elbow dysplasia, and puppy limp, which occurs when they are young.
Skye Terrier Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
Although inactive indoors, your Skye Terrier still needs a walk every day. Play time is good, too, but this alone will not fulfill their need to run and walk. If not given the opportunity, they will display behavioral issues. These dogs need a mid-sized fenced-in yard for playing and romping. Alternate nicknames for the Skye Terrier include Clydesdale Terrier, Paisley Terrier, Fancy Skye Terrier, Glasgow Terrier and Silky Skye Terrier. The life expectancy of the Skye Terrier is between 12 and 15 years.
| Training: | Easy to train |