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Skye Terrier

Skye Terrier is a small terrier breed from Scotland also known as Isle of Skye Terrier, Clydesdale Terrier.

Breed overview

Skye Terrier is a small terrier breed from Scotland also known as Isle of Skye Terrier, Clydesdale Terrier.

One of the most ancient Scottish terrier breeds from the Isle of Skye, developed to hunt foxes and otters in rocky dens. Their long, flowing coat protected them from Scottish weather and the teeth and claws of their prey.

People looking into Skye Terrier usually prepare for Low exercise needs, High grooming needs, 25–40 lbs • 9–10 in.

Isle of Skye TerrierClydesdale Terrier

History and origin

Skye Terrier is tied to originating from Scotland, specifically Isle of Skye, with sources often placing its development around 1600 CE.

Skye Terrier is described here as placed in the terrier group and marked as an established breed.

One of the most ancient Scottish terrier breeds from the Isle of Skye, developed to hunt foxes and otters in rocky dens. Their long, flowing coat protected them from Scottish weather and the teeth and claws of their prey.

Quick facts

Breed group
terrier
Size
Small
Origin country
Scotland
Region
Isle of Skye
Origin year
1600 CE
Weight
25–40 lbs
Height
9–10 in
Lifespan
12–14 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
2 / 5
Trainability
2 / 5
Good with children
2 / 5
Shedding level
3 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
Low exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 2/5Trainability: 2/5

Coat and classification

Skye Terrier is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

LongStraightHard

Skye Terrier is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Long, low body twice as long as tall
  • Profuse, straight coat reaching the ground
  • Coat covers eyes and forms veil over face
  • Can have either prick or drop ears

What this breed is known for

  • One of the most ancient Scottish terrier breeds from the Isle of Skye, developed to hunt foxes and otters in rocky dens. Their long, flowing coat protected them from Scottish weather and the teeth and claws of their prey.
  • Famous for Greyfriars Bobby, a Skye Terrier who guarded his master's grave in Edinburgh for 14 years until his own death in 1872. A statue and fountain commemorating Bobby stands in Edinburgh today.
  • Once the most popular terrier breed among Victorian aristocracy, favored by Queen Victoria who owned several. However, they're now one of the rarest terrier breeds with fewer than 100 puppies registered annually worldwide.

Health and care notes

Skye Terrier is noted here for Low exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Luxating Patella
  • Intervertebral Disc Disease
  • Eye Conditions
  • Autoimmune Disease

Coat details: Long, Straight, Hard

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Skye Terrier come from?

Skye Terrier is closely associated with Scotland, especially Isle of Skye in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Skye Terrier get?

Typical size details for Skye Terrier on this page are 25–40 lbs, 9–10 in, 12–14 years.

What is the Skye Terrier known for?

One of the most ancient Scottish terrier breeds from the Isle of Skye, developed to hunt foxes and otters in rocky dens. Their long, flowing coat protected them from Scottish weather and the teeth and claws of their prey.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Skye Terrier reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.