Skye Terrier

Group: Terrier
Size: Medium
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Exercise: Low
Grooming: Moderate
Trainability: Moderate
Area of Origin: Scotland
Date of Origin: 1500s
Original Function:Fox and Otter hunting

History
The origin of the Skye Terrier is connected with a shipwreck. In the early 1600's a Spanish ship came to grief against the rocks of the island of Skye in the Scottish Hebrides. Among the survivors were Maltese dogs that mated with local terriers and produced this new extremely pleasing and unique breed. In the mid-1800's Queen Victoria took a fancy to the breed and it became very popular for a while, especially among the nobility. Later the breed's popularity waned. The Skye Terrier is very loyal and strongly connected to his master. Legend has it that a Skye named "Bobby" stayed faithfully by the grave of his deceased master for ten years before he, too, passed away. Today the beautiful Skye Terrier is primarily a companion, though he can still help control vermin.

Temperament
The Skye is very good-natured, polite and affectionate. The Skye is courageous, spunky, bold, loving and playful, yet more serious than many terriers. They need a lot of attention to be happy. Loyal, protective, and a bit wilful, this breed requires extensive early socialisation with people or he may grow up to be overly suspicious of strangers. He often does not like to be touched by strangers and may bite. Be careful around other small animals, as the Skye likes to chase, and they can be a bit dog-aggressive. These little dogs like to bark.

Upkeep
This is a hunting dog at heart and enjoys a daily outing, exploring in a safe area. It also needs a short to moderate walk to stay in shape. The Skye enjoys life as a house dog, and prefers not to live outdoors. Regular combing (about twice a week) is all that is needed to keep the Skye looking good. An occasional bath will not soften the coat too much, as is often the case with other terriers. The hair around the eyes and mouth may need extra cleaning.

Breeders

Unfortunately there are no known breeders of the Skye Terrier at this time. Please take a look at some alternative suggestions below or if you know of a registered breeder please contact us.

You may also be interested in:

• Scottish Terrier

• West Highland White Terrier

• Cairn Terrier

Breed information sourced from: https://www.dogsnz.org.nz
Images sourced from Google Images.
No copyright infringement intended.