Scotties are not a breed for inexperienced owners in my opinion.
Two of the puppies, with EXTREMELY firm owners are doing just fine. These owners are really strong and firm with their kids and dogs. The male is a delight while the little girl is a little bitch, but thats to be expected. She doesnt' come when called, and basically is quite indepdent like a terrier is expected to be.
The third puppy with an owner who was rather ineffectual at managing her dogs behavior created an aggressive dog. During class I was helping her get the dog to sit - the dog was totally blowing her off. I tried luring him with a treat, and when that didn't work I chose to push gently on the butt. That didn't work either, and I began to recognize the signs of "You Aren't The Boss Of Me". When I went to take his collar to help him down that way, he fixed his eyes on my face in a steely way, and the sides of his mouth came forward. I had read about that happening but had never seen it. A truly dominant aggressive dog is rare - most dogs bite out of fear or prey drive, not dominance. In any case, i removed my hand and asked the small dog expert to help.
Sadly, the small dog expert got bitten as did the owner of the scottie. The scottie later got away from his mother, bit three dogs and a child.
The dog was saved - there wasn't anything really wrong with him - he just thought he was the boss of the universe and he had to be taught otherwise. I would argue he was a typical scottie - and its what can happen when you have a breed thats got attitude.
So unless you think you can handle a dog who wants to be the boss of you, reconsider the breed choice. If you really want a terrier, a cairn is much more easygoing.
Do you have kids?
----- Original Message -----
From: Duane Boudreau
To: CF-Community
Sent: Tuesday, September 30, 2003 5:54 AM
Subject: Puppy
Hi All,
After several months of discussion and debate we've decided to add a
puppy to the family. Due to some restrictions in our neighborhood the
type of dog we would really like to get is out of the question (Shepherd
or Husky). We've decided go to the other end of the spectrum and are
thinking Scottish terrier. Anyone here have experience with this breed?
I'm just starting to look but everything I've read so far a Scottie
sounds like a good fit.
Thanks All,
Duane
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