| Height | 10 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 19-22 pounds (male), 18-21 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Independent / Confident / Spirited [1] |
| AKC group | Terrier Group [1] |
| Origin | Scotland [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 57 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Scottish Terriers need a good walk, but also good playtime. They have high energy and need to expend some of that in bursts. Throwing a ball or toy around that they can chase works great. [1]
Grooming
Scottish Terriers require regularly scheduled grooming. They are a dual-coated breed, with a harsh, wiry outer layer and dense, soft undercoat. Ideally, they are hand stripped. [1]
Health issues to budget for
The breed's national parent club, the Scottish Terrier Club of America, provides excellent information regarding breed health issues on the club website. A good breeder will discuss with you what they have encountered in their lines. There is also some excellent research being done, much of which is supported by the club, to help breeders identify health conditions and make better decisions when choosing to breed. That means overall better health for the future generations. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Von Willebrand Disease III (Scottish Terrier) (VWDIII) - DNA Test, Craniomandibular Osteopathy. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Scottish Terrier in 1885. [1]
- It ranked No. 57 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 58 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Scottie, Diehard.” [1]
- The AKC lists Scotland as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 3 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Patella Evaluation, Von Willebrand Disease III (Scottish Terrier) (VWDIII) - DNA Test. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 2/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 4/5
Common questions
How long do Scottish Terriers live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12 years.
How big does a Scottish Terrier get?
AKC breed information lists height 10 inches and weight 19-22 pounds (male), 18-21 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Scottish Terrier?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Scottish Terrier, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.