Height: 9-10 inches
Weight: 23-28 lbs.
Life Span: 12-15 yrs.
Breed Group: Terriers
Overview
Skye terriers are physically powerful, strong-willed, bold, and loyal. They
require a lot of individual attention.
Early socialization and obedience training, preferably with an experienced
owner who can maintain leadership, should make them less cautious with strangers,
less nippy with children, and less hostile toward other animals. They are
fine city dogs if exercised daily.
Appearance
The Skye's well-feathered hair falls like a veil over its forehead and eyes,
a feature that protects this hunter from brush and briars. The outercoat
is firm, flat, straight, and about five inches long; the undercoat is short,
close, soft, and woolly. Coat color is black, blue, light or dark gray,
silver platinum, cream, or fawn.
Grooming & Exercise Needs
Skye terriers need to be brushed and combed every other day to avoid matting.
Some trimming may be necessary every three months. They need long walks
daily and occasional runs in safe, secured areas.
Origins
The Skye terrier originated in the 16th century on the rugged, harsh islands
of northwest Scotland, one of which is the Isle of Skye. The breed displayed
stamina, courage, strength, and agility in pursuit of small game.
It was a favorite of royalty; Queen Victoria fell in love with the breed.
The story goes that in the 19th century an ever loyal Skye terrier named
Greyfriar's Bobby mourned and visited its master's grave for ten years,
until its own death.
Special Alerts
This breed requires an experienced owner.
Breed-related health concerns: hypothyroidism, atopy, copper toxicosis
(a hereditary disease in which copper accumulates in the liver and can lead
to liver failure).
Reference: AKC - American Kennel Club |
