Skye terriers have a feisty and intolerant disposition but are loving and loyal pets. The dog is know to be reproachful of strangers suddenly touching them, so due care must be taken at home around strangers.
History: Relatively unchanged for four hundred years, the Skye Terrier is a product of the harsh and demanding Outer Hebrides Islands off the northern coast of Scotland. The long coat offered the dog protection from the weather and the dangerous animals such as the badger, fox and weasel that he hunted. Rarely seen now, the Skye was the most popular terrier in the world until the end of the 19th century. Skyes were one of the foundation breeds of the American Kennel Club.
Appearance: The Skye Terrier is an elegant, long and low terrier. Its length should be twice its height at the withers. The long and powerful, strength being deemed more important than extreme length. The eyes are brown, preferably dark brown, medium in size, close-set and alight with life and intelligence. The ears, which can be either drop or prick, are not altered. Prick ears are much more common than drop ones. The Skye Terrier is a double-coated breed. The outer-coat is typically six inches in length, hard and straight. The under-coat is wooly and soft in texture. Any solid color is allowed and a dark muzzle and ears are prized. The most common colors are varying shades of gray and cream.
Size: Its Length should be twice its height.
Height: 10 inches (25.5cm)
Weight: 25 pounds (11.5kg); 10% less for bitches.
Temperament: The Skye is very good-natured, polite and affectionate. Courageous, spunky and bold. Loving and playful, yet more serious than many terriers. They are not outgoing and much prefer one on one relationships. They have a tendency to be obstinate and stubborn, but are exceedingly loyal and highly devoted to their owner. It does well with older children, but does not like to be teased. It will need training before interacting with other pets. Although affectionate with its family, it is reserved with strangers, often appearing aloof or superior. These little dogs like to bark. This breed requires extensive early socialization with people or he may grow up to be overly suspicious of strangers.
Health: Overall a healthy breed. Some have hypoplasia of the larynx. Occasional colitis and bowel irritations are reported.
Life expectancy: 12-14 years
Grooming: The long straight coat needs frequent attention or it will mat. The puppy’s coat is quite different from the adult coat. It may take several years before the adult coat develops completely. The long silky coat of the Skye Terrier requires twice weekly combing with a metal comb to prevent it from matting. Bath only when needed, and keep the hair around its eyes and mouth clean. This breed is an average shedder.
Puppy price: $400.00