Skye Terrier
Description
Connected with a
shipwreck in the early 1600's when a Spanish ship came to grief against
the rocks off the island of Skye in the Scottish Hebrides. It was where
among the survivors, Maltese dogs were mated with local terriers
and thus produced this new extremely pleasing and unique breed. Being
known to be 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, being fed by
local town folk. Used primarily in those days to catch vermin, nowadays
the beautiful Skye Terrier is primarily a companion, though he can still
help control vermin.
Temperament
The spunky,
courageous and bold Skye is very good-natured, polite and affectionate.
Playful and very loving, these dogs just thrive on lots of attention
and even though they are loyal and protective they can become a bit
willful with a meek owner. Requiring extensive early socialization with
people to avoid growing up to be overly suspicious of strangers, it is
also important not to allow this breed to develop small dog syndrome,
which stems from human induced behaviors where the dog believes he is
the boss. This could cause the Skye to become a bit dog-aggressive and
bark obsessively. Be careful around other small animals, as the Skye
likes to chase.
Appearance
Height: 25.5cm
(10in)
Weight: 11.5-18kg
(25-40lbs)
This elegant, long
and low terrier sports a powerful muzzle, a black nose, dark brown eyes,
and either upright or falling-down ears. With a tail which is pendent
and never curled the Skye Terrier has a double coat which lays flat
against the body and also has hair which shields and protects the eyes
and forehead. It comes in the colors of either gray-blue, dove or cream,
always with black ears.
Grooming
The Skye Terrier is
an average shedder and their long, straight coat requires frequent
attention or it will matt. Their long flowing coat needs to be brushed
at least once a week and should be generally kept natural and untrimmed;
however, minor trimming of the coat between and around the toes and pads
to avoid dampness and mud being dragged into the house.
Life Expectancy
12-15 Years
Health Concerns
Primarily a very
healthy breed however, being a breed of dog with extremely short legs;
the Skye Terrier can be prone to particular health concerns. Skye limp
or Puppy limp is most preventable and it is due to premature closure of
the distal radial growth plate. New owners of puppies should be aware
that if a Skye is exercised too often, too young, especially before 8
months, they can damage their bone growth, leading to a painful limp and
possibly badly bowed legs. It is recommended that jumping up and down
from objects, climbing over objects, running, and even long walks,
should be avoided for the first 8 to 10 months to prevent later problems
and allow for correct closure of the growth plate.
Suitability
The Skye Terrier is
suitable for apartment life. It is relatively active indoors and will do
okay without a yard. Even though the Sky Terrier gets plenty of
exercise because of their love of wanting to play, to avoid behavioral
problems and to fulfill their natural primal instincts they still
require a daily walk. If you can also include a good romp in a safe
open area off lead, such as a large fenced in yard that would be even
better.
Skye Terrier - Back to Top
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