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Skye Terrier Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Skye Terrier so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Hunting Dogs
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Skye Terrier dog profile picture
OriginScotland flagScotland
Other Names
What other names does the Skye Terrier have?
Clydesdale TerrierGlasgow TerrierPaisley TerrierSilky Skye TerrierFancy Skye TerrierIsle of Skye Terrier
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Skye Terrier Size and Weight

Size
Is a Skye Terrier small, medium or large dog?

How big do Skye Terrier get?

What is the average size of a Skye Terrier?

Medium
Weight
How much does the Skye Terrier weigh? How much should a Skye Terrier weight? What is the normal weight of a Skye Terrier? How much does a full-grown Skye Terrier weight?
Male: 35-40 pounds (16-18 kg), Female: 25-30 pounds (11.5-14 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Skye Terrier?
Male: 37.5 pounds (17 kg), Female: 27.5 pounds (11.9.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Skye Terrier? Skye Terrier height:
9.75-10.25 inches (25-26 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Skye Terrier?
9.75-10.25 inches (25.5 cm)

Skye Terrier Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Skye Terrier puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Skye Terrier in the United States? How much money is a Skye Terrier?

Where to buy a Skye Terrier with a good pedigree?

$500-$600
If you choose to purchase the Skye Terrier, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Skye Terrier for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Skye Terrier gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Skye Terrier? How many Skye Terrier are there in the world?
Frequent: The Skye Terrier is easier than average to get. Maybe there is some risk of overbreeding, as it is a popular breed.

Due to its popularity, inbreeding may occur. A new study shows that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful and seek the help of an experienced person or a professional, in making your decision.

Skye Terrier Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Skye Terrier? Is the Skye Terrier breed dumb or smart?
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one. Keep in mind that if you want to teach them any tricks, they understand and memorize new commands in 40-80 repetitions. Skye Terrier obey the first command 30% of the time or better. So if you want to have a smart dog, you might have to reconsider your choice with this breed.

The Skye Terrier ranks below average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are Skye Terrier dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Skye Terrier?
Skye Terrier dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Ability
Is Skye Terrier good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Skye Terrier dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Skye Terrier dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Skye Terrier dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Skye Terrier dogs strongly protect their territory. This breed is a complete security guard, so you don't have to be afraid in case of danger.

Skye Terrier Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Skye Terrier have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
IntelligentFriendlyLoyalTemperedFearlessGood-natured
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Skye Terrier sensitivity:
Skye Terrier dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Skye Terrier a good family dog?
Average to High: Skye Terrier dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Clydesdale Terrier need? Skye Terrier social needs:
Skye Terrier dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Skye Terrier to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Skye Terrier roam?
The wanderlust potential of the Skye Terrier is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Skye Terrier have high prey drive?
Skye Terrier dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Skye Terrier dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Skye Terrier Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
Average: Skye Terriers, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Barking
Do Skye Terrier dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Clydesdale Terrier bark?
Low to Average: The Skye Terrier rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Skye Terrier good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Skye Terrier in an apartment?
Very house-friendly dog the Skye Terrier breed. It's good if you have a small garden where he can go out and do his business, but it's not important at all. You can get enough exercise with one or two walks a day, so keeping them indoors shouldn't be a problem.

Skye Terrier Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Skye Terrier dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Skye Terrier be left alone? How long can you leave a Skye Terrier alone?
Skye Terrier dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Skye Terrier Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Skye Terrier has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Skye Terrier? How much bite force does a Skye Terrier have? How strong is a Skye Terrier bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Skye Terrier bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Skye Terrier measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Skye Terrier is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Skye Terrier bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Skye Terrier bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Skye Terrier puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Skye Terrier, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Skye Terrier bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Skye Terrier can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Skye Terrier bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Clydesdale Terrier? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Skye Terrier? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Skye Terrier has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Skye Terrier do?
Skye Terrier dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Skye Terrier dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Skye Terrier Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Skye Terrier dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Skye Terriers are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Skye Terrier breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Skye Terrier breed? Most common health risks of Skye Terrier:
Achondroplasia
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Skye Terrier breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Skye Terrier see the vet?
Rare
The Skye Terrier should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Skye Terrier dogs live? How old can a Skye Terrier be? What is the age limit of the Skye Terrier? How many years can the oldest Skye Terrier live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Skye Terrier?

How long is the lifespan of a Skye Terrier?

12-14 years
The average lifespan of Skye Terrier: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Skye Terrier can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.

Skye Terrier Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Skye Terrier have? What is the activity level of the Skye Terrier?
Skye Terrier dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Skye Terrier need? How much exercise do Skye Terrier dogs require per day?

Do Skye Terrier dogs need a lot of exercises?

Skye Terrier dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Skye Terrier breed need?
Skye Terrier dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.

Skye Terrier Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Skye Terrier need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Skye Terrier breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Skye Terrier? How much food should I feed my Skye Terrier?
1.5 to 2 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two or three meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Skye Terrier risk for obesity:
Average: The Skye Terrier has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Skye Terrier weight regularly.

Skye Terrier Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Skye Terrier have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
SoftStraight
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Skye Terrier coats?
BlackGray Blue Cream SilverFawnPlatinum
Grooming
How to groom the Skye Terrier and how often? How often should I take my Skye Terrier to the groomer?
Average: The Skye Terrier requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Skye Terrier, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Shedding Level
How much do Skye Terrier dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Clydesdale Terrier? Do Skye Terrier dogs shed a lot?
Skye Terrier dogs shed none to minimal. Having a puppy from this breed you don't have to be afraid of your couch or car being covered by dog hair. Skye Terrier dogs could be the best choice if you don't tolerate dog hair.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Skye Terrier need a bath? How often should you give a Skye Terrier a bath? Can I bathe my Skye Terrier every day?
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Skye Terrier breed hypoallergenic?
No
Skye Terrier dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Skye Terrier has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Skye Terrier drool?
The Skye Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Skye Terrier could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Skye Terrier.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Skye Terrier Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Skye Terrier dogs get along with other pets? Are Skye Terrier dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Skye Terrier dogs usually don’t get on well with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Skye Terrier temperament with other people:
Skye Terrier dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Skye Terrier dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Skye Terrier temperament with children:
Skye Terrier dogs are average friendly dogs towards children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Skye Terrier dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Skye Terrier breed live with a cat?
Skye Terrier dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Skye Terrier good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Skye Terrier dogs get along with other dogs?
Skye Terrier dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Skye Terrier is not a good choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Skye Terrier breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Skye Terrier breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Skye Terrier dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Skye Terrier dogs good office canines? Do Skye Terrier dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Skye Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Skye Terrier dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Clydesdale Terrier temperament with senior people? Are Skye Terrier dogs good for elderly owners?
Skye Terriers are commonly okay with elderly people.

Skye Terrier As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Skye Terrier be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Skye Terrier is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Skye Terrier be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Skye Terrier be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Skye Terrier is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Skye Terrier be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Skye Terrier is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Skye Terrier be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Skye Terrier is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Skye Terrier be a boat dog?

Not really

Skye Terrier breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Skye Terrier be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Skye Terrier is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Skye Terrier dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Skye Terrier Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Skye Terrier pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Skye Terrier breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Skye Terrier: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Skye Terrier have in a litter? How many puppies can the Skye Terrier breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Skye Terrier have? How many puppies can a Skye Terrier give birth to?
4-6 puppies

Skye Terrier Recognition

AKC Group
Is Skye Terrier recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1887 as a Terrier breed.
FCI Group
Is Skye Terrier recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Terriers group, in the Small sized Terriers section.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the Skye Terrier breed?
American Canine RegistryAmerican Kennel ClubAmerica's Pet RegistryCanadian Kennel ClubDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleKennel Club of Great BritainNorth American Purebred Registry, Inc.American Canine Association, Inc.Australian National Kennel CouncilContinental Kennel ClubNational Kennel ClubNew Zealand Kennel ClubClub Espanol De Terriers

Skye Terrier Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Trainability: Skye Terrier dogs are easy to train.
  • Health Issues: Skye Terriers are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Apartment Friendly: Very house-friendly dog the Skye Terrier breed.
  • Shedding Level: Skye Terrier dogs shed none to minimal.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Skye Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Ability: Skye Terrier dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Adaptability: Skye Terrier dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Skye Terrier dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Intelligent Rank: Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
  • Hypoallergenic: Skye Terrier dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Skye Terrier is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Skye Terrier dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Cat Friendly: Skye Terrier dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Skye Terrier dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Skye Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Skye Terrier History

The Skye Terrier is one of the oldest breeds originated from Scotland, Britain. The breed’s history goes back more than four centuries ago to the Isle of Skye, in Scotland. The Isle of Skye is the largest, most northerly of Scotland’s Inner Hebrides islands. In the early 17th century, the rugged, hard-coated terrier was developed by the island’s farmers in order to help them control the badger and fox population. First, the breed was used to hunt otter, fox, and badger following them into their burrows and pulling them out to kill them. Until this day, the breed’s basic characteristics remained unchanged since its first development. His short, sturdy legs were made for digging and his double coat to protect the dogs from thorns, the rough bushes, and the bites from its adversaries, as well as from the inclement, and rainy Scottish weather.

Despite being a breed designed for farm life, the Skye Terrier became a fancied breed among the British nobility. The peak of Skye’s popularity was in the late 1800s when Queen Victoria championed the breed. The Skye Terrier was much favored and well-known as a house pet of the Scottish lairds and earls, consequently, eventually, the breed gained significant status with the English aristocracy. During this period in history, according to a historian’s notes, any self-respecting duchess would have been ashamed to be seen in the public, in the parks unaccompanied, without their fashionable long-coated Sky Terrier. The breed was really of an in-style pet of all degrees after being recognized and accepted in court by the Queens and Kings of England. For example, Queen Victoria was fond of the Skye Terrier, kept and also bred them. Around that time, the breed was one of the most popular terrier breeds around whole Britain.

According to these stories and descriptions, the breed was well-established approximately since the early 1600s. However, the breed was not always known as the Skye Terrier, the dogs were also called Paisley Terrier, Silky Skye Terrier, Glasgow Terrier, Fancy Skye Terrier, or the Clydesdale Terrier.

Relatively early on, in 1887, the Skye Terrier was officially recognized by the AKC (American Kennel Club), the first specimen of the breed who got registered was a puppy named Romach in the same year. Later, in 1938, the Skye Terrier Club of America was formed. Despite the fact that the breed was fancied for centuries, the Skye Terrier is considered to be a relatively rare breed nowadays. The most famous Skye Terrier was named Greyfriars Bobby. That dog was so devoted to his owner, that after his death, the little dog lay on his grave, only leaving for food for fourteen years.

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