Skye Terrier Dog Breed Information - All About Dogs

Skye Terrier

Skye Terrier

SKYE TERRIER DOG BREED

Description:

The Skye Terrier (Skye) is one of the most original representatives of Terriers. This breed was developed in Scotland, on the Isle of Skye. Skye Terriers come in two varieties: prick and drop-eared. While drop-eared Skye Terriers are more suitable for farm work, dogs with prick ears are a wonderful companion and good show dogs. This is a long, low to the ground dog breed. The Skye was first registered with the American Kennel Club in 1887.

Height: 9-10 inches  Weight: 35-45 pounds  Lifespan: 12-14 years

Characteristics:

The Skye Terrier is a polite, elegant and bold breed. Its length is twice as long as the height. Skye Terriers are agile, strong, sturdy and muscular. This breed is often referred to as a rural aristocrat. This terrier is charming and able to execute various tricks. Comparable Breeds: The Cairn Terrier and Norfolk Terrier.

Character:

The Skye Terrier is good-natured, and yet fearless. This dog loves familiar people, but he treats strangers with caution. Skye Terriers are very sensitive but can be overly rebellious. Like all terriers, the Skye will only respect those who respect him. This terrier is very loyal to his master, but its most distinctive trait is stubbornness. These dogs are not on good terms with other pets and children because they need calm and relaxed atmosphere. The Skye Terrier jealously guards his family and territory, and may, therefore, be aggressive towards strangers, it feels threatened

Coat / Care:

Skye Terriers have a two-layered coat. The outer layer is rigid and straight, generally up to 6 inches (15 cm) in length. The undercoat is soft and thick. Skye Terriers come in a range of colors. Hence, they can be blue, dark or light grey, pale yellow, cream and black with black points. However, ears and muzzle are always black. The hair on Skye’s head is very long because it is designed to protect the eyes. This breed sheds moderately. Regular cleaning with a metal comb or brush is very important in order to prevent tangling of the hair. Hair around the eyes and mouth need thorough care. Furthermore, make sure to regularly check the dog’s ears to prevent possible inflammation. Bathe your pet only in case of emergency.

Health Problems:

The Skye Terrier is a generally healthy dog, but he may experience problems with degenerative disc disease, hyperthyroidism, mammary cancer and autoimmune disease. The Skye Terrier has a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years.

Weight / Height

The male Skye Terrier dog breed’s height is around 9 – 10 inches and weighs around 40 and 45 pounds. Female Skye Terrier dogs can reach a size from 9 – 9.5 inches and weighs between 35 and 40 pounds.

Training:

The Skye Terrier requires intensive and extensive socialization at puppyhood. This will help him overcome his innate indifference and a certain alienation, typical for this breed. The Skye is not very responsive to a long and frequent repetition of lessons. In fact, this breed is very fond of positive reinforcement, such as food reward and play. Nevertheless, training must be consistent, strict, and yet fair. If trained properly, this terrier can be quite successful in different types of canine sports.

Activity:

Skye Terriers are ideal for living in an apartment or townhouse, as they need very little physical activity. Moreover, even though this breed feels great in open space, it prefers to live indoors. Daily walks and family games are all the Skye Terrier needs to stay in shape.

Photo credit: Chris Phutully/Flickr

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