Skye Terrier - Top 10 Interesting Facts

The Skye Terrier is a medium-size dog breed who was developed on the Isle of Skye in Scotland. They were originally developed to hunt and kill badger, otter and fox, but these days they’re appreciated as a versatile companion breed.

There are top 10 interesting facts about Skye Terrier!

1) Working dog

Skye Terriers are known for their elegant appearance, but they were actually bred as working dogs, which had to be extremely brave and tough. Farmers bred Skye Terriers and trained them to protect their farms from pests like foxes, badgers, and otters—animals. The Skye's long, thick coat made him appear larger and more threatening, and protected him from bites.


2) Oldest Terrier Breed

Many Terrier breeds acquired their present appearance at some point within the last century. However, the Skye Terrier has had the same appearance for at least the last four centuries, even if it was not always called by the same name. As far back as the breed can be traced, it seems to have originated in the northwestern islands of Scotland. The name Skye was the name of the leader of those islands.



3) Headstrong Breed

Skye Terriers can be headstrong and must be taught at an early age that they are not the rulers of the world. The toughness that makes them suited to killing vermin can frustrate you when you try to teach them anything. Skye Terriers can be stubborn and dominant (they want to be the boss) and will make you prove that you can make them do things. You must show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say.


4) Mistrust in Strangers

Standoffish by nature, Skye Terriers need extensive exposure to people and to unusual sights and sounds. Otherwise their natural caution can become extreme wariness or suspiciousness, which can lead to biting. The Skye Terrier has powerful jaws and is not a dog to be trifled with.


5) Defensive Reactions

I do not recommend terriers for small children. Many terriers will not tolerate any nonsense from little life forms whom they consider to be below themselves in importance. Many terriers are quick to react to teasing, and even to the normal clumsiness that comes with small children (accidental squeezing of their ears or pulling of whiskers or stepping on their paw). Many terriers are possessive of their food and toys and will defend these from all comers, including children.


6) Royal Companions

Queen Victoria's fondness for Skye Terriers was a major factor in the dogs' increased popularity among the aristocracy, and they were even accepted in the royal court. During the Victorian Era, duchesses apparently would be ashamed to be seen in the park without their elegant Skye Terriers.


7) Endangered Breed

Though the Skye Terrier was immensely popular in the Victorian Era, their numbers have declined dramatically. Just 42 were registered with the UK Kennel Club in 2012. Even though their numbers are small, Skyes continue to be entered in shows as formidable competitors. As recently as 2014, a Skye Terrier named Charlie won Best In Show at the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship.



8) Personality

To those whom he chooses to love, the Skye terrier is adoring, affectionate and, above all, loyal. However, this dog does not bestow such devotion on just anyone. He will be eager to please his family and others whom he holds in high regard; with the rest of humanity, he is likely to be standoffish. Skye terriers are known to be somewhat willful. They have minds of their own and generally are not submissive, timid or fearful. They are alert and protective of their people and territories, and they like to bark.



9) Animal Agression

Like all terriers, Skyes can be scrappy with other dogs of the same sex. They are a determined force to reckon with if they decide to initiate or accept a challenge to fight. And because of their hunting background, most Skye Terriers have strong instincts to chase and seize small fleeing creatures. This can make for conflict if you own a cat. It may be much worse than that if you own a pet rabbit or hamster!



10) Grooming

Without frequent brushing, Skye Terriers become a matted mess. If you can't commit to the brushing, you have to commit to frequent trimming to keep the coat short and sanitary.