The Skye Terrier is a humble dog hailing from the island of Skye over in Scotland. Though unknown by many, the Skye Terrier stands out from the other Scottish terrier breeds. Read on to learn more about this charming dog!
1. They Come from the Island of Skye
The Skye Terrier is named after the Isle of Skye, which is the largest of the islands in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. This terrier is also believed to be the most ancient of all Scottish dog breeds, likely originating sometime during the 17th century. Legend holds that a Spanish shipwrecked on the rocky coasts, and the surviving Maltese dogs made it to shore and bred with the local terriers.
Like other terriers, the Skye Terrier was bred to take down vermin, such as rats that would wreak havoc on farms, while also fending off other animals considered nuisances, such as badgers and otters. Interestingly enough, the Skye Terrier’s abilities were appreciated by British aristocratic nobles, giving this breed the royal treatment.
Both Mary Queen of Scots and Queen Victoria were accompanied by the beloved Skye Terriers, which helped this breed become very popular during the 19th century.
The Skye Terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1887. Its popularity didn’t last long, however, as this dog is now considered among the rarest breeds.
2. These Small Terriers Were Bred to Hunt
Like other terriers, the Skye Terrier was originally bred to hunt and take down animals that were considered pests, such as badgers, foxes, and even otters that would pose threats to livestock.
Their tenacity was known as these terriers were even reported to go straight into the water or the den just to pursue their fleeing quarry. To make them much more intimidating in appearance, the Skye Terrier’s coat makes them look much bigger than they truly are. Their thick double coat helped protect these canines from the harsh Scottish elements and also provided some protection against the targeted prey that would defend themselves.
This fearlessness is still observed in the modern form of this breed today. So, these dogs are not recommended for households with small pets, such as cats.
3. These Dogs Are Known for Their Loyalty!
The most famous Skye Terrier is perhaps Greyfriars Bobby, a dog who once lived in Edinburgh sometime during the 1850s to 1870s.
A famous legend goes that one unfortunate day, Greyfriars Bobby’s owner, John Gray, tragically died from tuberculosis on February 15th, 1858. Before his death, John Gray worked as a watchman at night, and Greyfriars Bobby would accompany him as his watchdog companion. Greyfriars Bobby would stand guard at John Gray’s grave for 14 years, until the dog would pass from jaw cancer on January 14th, 1872.
A few memorials have been created in honor of Greyfriars Bobby, including a statue that stands in front of the graveyard where John Gray was buried. Greyfriars Bobby even has a bar honoring his legacy.
Despite these claims of a bittersweet story, some people have criticized its overall legitimacy. Some say that the John Gray wasn’t the nighttime officer himself, but a farmer who happened to go by the same namesake. Some critics have said that various street dogs were fed around graveyards, so the terrier wasn’t guarding his owner’s grave, but instead waiting for free food!
One has even noted that at some point, the original dog died in 1867 and was replaced with another dog, which could explain the supposed “longevity” of Greyfriars Bobby’s life. This was a sensation at the time as curious crowds would visit the graveyard, which gave the local community a financial benefit. Whatever the case may be, Greyfriars Bobby’s legacy still lives on today!
4. The Skye Terrier Is a Rarity
As mentioned earlier, the Skye Terrier is a very rare breed; the Skye Terrier Club estimated that only around 5,000 dogs exist as of 2020. This breed is notably seen at the show ring itself. Even in the United Kingdom, it is considered among the most endangered in the country and is listed as an “at risk” breed. As of 2024, the Skye Terrier ranks 185th out of the 201 breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club. There are fears that the Skye Terrier may even disappear in just around 40 years.
While the Skye Terrier is rare, there is a small but dedicated community of enthusiasts and ethical breeders working to preserve the breed in hopes of maintaining and prolonging the breed’s existence.
5. These Dogs Can Experience Some Health Issues
Like all dogs, the modern Skye Terrier is prone to a few health defects.
Due to its short stature, this breed is prone to various neck and back injuries. Intervertebral disc disease is one issue to prevent, as this can cause mild to severe symptoms ranging from pain to paralysis. This is a serious condition, and veterinary attention should be sought if any symptoms arise. To limit the chances of injury, limit aggressive playtime and prevent your dog from jumping on and off the couch.
The Skye Terrier should also be screened for signs of dog-related cancer, along with general problems that aren’t breed-specific. Hip dysplasia, a rather common issue in dogs, occurs when their hip joints don’t grow properly, causing discomfort and limited mobility in your dog. While this can be mitigated through a management plan with your veterinarian, extreme cases may require surgery.
Like many other small breeds, the Skye Terrier can also get luxating patellas, also known as “floating kneecaps”. While it can be manageable just like hip dysplasia, severe cases may require surgical intervention.
6. These Dogs Have Grooming Considerations
The Skye Terrier has a fine-haired coat that must be brushed weekly with a soft brush, along with a nice combing session with a long-toothed comb to ward off tangling. Interestingly enough, it’s not recommended to trim or clip this breed’s coat overall, though some owners may choose to trim around the face and paws. The Skye Terrier should be bathed monthly, with care being taken not to scrub its coat as this can cause mats to form.
As with all dogs, your Skye Terrier’s nails should be trimmed every few weeks. The Skye Terrier’s ears must also be cleaned frequently as well. While this breed’s ears either come upright or floppy, care is the same as the copious amounts of hair within can make this breed more susceptible to both earwax buildup and infection.
It’s highly recommended to brush your Skye Terrier’s teeth almost every day to maintain dental health and prevent disease. While dental chews are relished, they shouldn’t be used as a substitute for actual tooth brushing.
7. These Dogs Are Surprisingly Low-Energy
The Skye Terrier is not known for being a high-energy breed, but that doesn’t mean that exercise is optional. A bored dog is a destructive one, and though the Skye Terrier’s exercise requirements are easy to satisfy, they should not be overlooked or ignored. Fortunately, this terrier is usually easily satisfied with a few short walks around the block and some additional playtime. The Skye Terrier has an affinity for digging, and some owners will provide their dogs with their very own sandboxes.
Due to its short legs, take care not to play too rough with a Skye Terrier. You wouldn’t want to risk injuring your beloved companion!
8. Skye Terriers Generally Make Good Companions
The Skye Terrier can make a lovely lifelong companion for some people–– if they’re able to satisfy the requirements to handle and keep this rare canine. As with all dogs, training and socialization should begin early in puppyhood. Training this terrier can be rather difficult, as while intelligent the Skye Terrier can also be somewhat stubborn due to their independent streak.
As with all breeds, positive reinforcement training methods are crucial, and the Skye Terrier requires someone firm, yet also consistent and patient. The untrained Skye Terrier may also develop rather undesired behaviors such as excessive barking and/or digging. As mentioned earlier, providing your dog its very own sandbox may curb and satisfy the digging instincts that terriers often sport.
While this low-energy breed can thrive perfectly in an apartment setting, be sure to keep your dog’s barking at bay, as many neighbors may complain!
