Dog Breeds > Skye Terrier

The Skye Terrier

The Skye terrier is one of the most good-natured terriers you will ever come across. They are affectionate and they no doubt bring about an air of elegance with their long coat of fur hanging down their long and close-to-earth bodies.

Energy Playfulness Intelligence Grooming Popularity

Fascinating Facts

The Skye terrier may look gentle and elegant, but beneath that blanket of fur is a dog tough as nails. They were used for hunting small animals such as rats, hares and otters, and are exceptionally quick on their short, fuzzy feet. They are fairly energetic and playful pets.

Physical Appearance

The Skye terrier is covered in a thick blanket of fur that cascades down its face and low, long body. They have sturdy bones and are muscular in build, with a strong jaw designed to kill rodents. They usually stand at 9-10 inches and weigh 30-40 lbs.

Grooming

Grooming a Skye terrier, much as it is covered in lush fur, should be very easy if only they didn’t shed a lot. Their fur is best kept as long as they can grow, with minimal trimming and weekly combing to keep the fur from matting and to keep fur from getting all over the place. Trimming the hair on their paws would keep infectious materials at bay, such as twigs and dirt that are accumulated in its tufts of paw fur.

Mood

The Skye terrier is known to be a very loving, affectionate creature albeit their fierceness when it comes to the hunt. They love to play and love companionship. They are very courageous as they are generally meant for hunting, although their energetic adventures indoors can be kept at bay with toys that move around such as balls and sticks. They are good at socializing and can adapt very well to noise and sights, so that shouldn’t be a problem when bringing them around with you.

With Children

The Skye terrier is good at socializing with people, children included. If they are raised with the child from puppyhood, they will make adorable guard dogs for your little ones. You should think twice if you want to expand your kid’s playmate alternatives, however, as Skye terriers tend to show dominance with other creatures and aggression with small animals such as rabbits and gerbils.

Training & Exercise

The Skye terrier needs daily walks to keep its energy levels at bay indoors. Their owner should show a natural air of authority and dominance, especially with training. Firm but gentle is the key attribute to training these intelligent dogs. If they acknowledge you as authority, they will follow commands and follow your lead.

Health & Life Expectancy

The normal lifespan of the Skye terrier is usually 12-15 years. They are generally healthy, but 10% of this breed of dogs has degenerative disc disease. Walking, climbing over furniture and high places, jumping and long walks should be avoided while they are still at a very young age; between 1 month to 7 months, to prevent growth plate problems and allow their legs to grow to their fullest.

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