The Skye Terrier comes from the Isle of Skye, a rugged and inhospitable environment to contend with has produced a dog of rugged and indomitable characteristics. This hardy terrier was known by many different names in its early history, and was one of the earliest terriers to be mentioned in books in England. Early on it was known as the Clydesdale Terrier or the Paisley Terrier. The breed has a long history in its native land as a hunting terrier of courage and toughness, and is persistent and thorough when going after rodents and vermin.

The Skye terrier has an equally long history as a Show Dog. The Skye became a fashionable dog for the English gentry, with its long flowing coat and elegant appearance it became a popular dog in the English show ring and a favorite with the nobility. Queen Victoria bred a number of these dogs in her kennel. They were represented frequently in paintings of the time, including those of the well known artist, Sir Edwin Landseer. They were competitors at the first dog show ever held: the Birmingham Dog show of 1860. In the United States, they were first registered in 1864.

The body of the Skye is low to the ground. He should be much longer than he is tall, about ten inches at the shoulder but proportionately his body is about three times that of his height. He has a broad chest and strong front legs, meant for digging and climbing among the rocks and crags of his homeland. His coat is weather resistant and dense, with a protective flow of hair over the eyes, making it appear that he can not see at all. When kept combed he has a striking appearance, but otherwise the look can be scraggly and unkempt. Owners of dogs who are not being shown often pull the hair back from over the eyes and clasp it with a band so that the dog can see. The tail is long and carried straight out from the topline when he is moving.

This is a curious and energetic breed, with a great sense of loyalty to its family and friends but aloof and wary of strangers. He does not make new friends easily. With other dogs he can show a considerable amount of aggression unless brought up together with them. This is not a breed for the casual pet owner, coat care and training considerations can be a problem for people who are not knowledgeable. They do not make good kennel dogs, for they need to develop a bond with humans, and care should be taken to assure that puppies, while young, are allowed to be with people rather than in a kennel, for without this they will grow up completely unsocialized and even more difficult to have in the home.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Animals