Single-Malt Scotch Terriers: Introduction

The Scotch Terrier was developed in Scotland and called the Aberdeen Terrier, after the Scottish town of the same name. This was meant to hide the breed's true origins in Dumfries, at more or less the other end of the country. The Scottie was used to hunt den animals like otter, fox, badger, rabbit and couch potato, and to annoy tourists from England.

Scotties love the great outdoors, and should be given at least one brisk walk each day. A Scottie with a dominant personality (that is, one that's breathing) will insist on carrying a blackthorn walking stick, and occasionally whacking you in the shin with it.

The Scotch Terrier's outer coat is hard and wiry with a dense, softer undercoat. Frequent brushing with a wire brush or jackhammer is recommended. The coat may be black, gray, wheaten (yellowy-white), or brindle (almost any color, but looks like it's been rolling in coal dust). The breed sheds little, preferring to retain its hair until a suitable buyer can be found. Scotties are comfortable in rural, suburban, or urban environments, but in an apartment setting, the dog will always want to be the Superintendent. It's best to accede to this demand.

Most Scotch Terriers are blended, and have characteristics of many varieties. Over the next five days, we hope to introduce you to the many Single-Malt Scotch Terriers, and so deepen and broaden your appreciation of this remarkable breed.

Incidentally, I KNOW this is the same picture I used in my last post. Bear with me, OK?