Skye Terrier
Twice as long as it is tall, under a coat that reaches the ground. Greyfriars Bobby was one, and the breed is rarer today than most people realise.
Photo by Michal Maňas, CC BY 3.0
Overview
The Skye Terrier is long, low and heavily coated, bred on the Isle of Skye to bolt fox, badger and otter from rock cairns. The coat hangs over the eyes and protected the dog from brambles and from bites.
It is one of the most endangered native British breeds, with annual registrations often in the low tens, and Greyfriars Bobby, the dog said to have kept vigil at his owner's grave in Edinburgh for fourteen years, was one.
Temperament
Loyal, reserved and famously one person. Skyes are devoted to their own household and genuinely distrustful of strangers, and they are among the most reserved terriers.
They are stubborn, sensitive and slow to forgive rough handling. They can be scrappy with other dogs. They are dignified and undemonstrative and they suit an adult household that appreciates a dog with its own opinions.
Care and grooming
The long hard coat reaches the ground and needs thorough brushing two or three times a week. Moderate shedding for the length.
The long back on short legs brings intervertebral disc disease, and puppies should not be allowed to jump or use stairs while growing. Skye limp, a growth condition affecting the front legs, occurs in puppies exercised too hard. Twelve to fourteen years.
Living and exercise
Forty five minutes to an hour a day on the flat, with jumping discouraged and ramps provided.
The rarity is the practical obstacle. This breed is genuinely at risk of disappearing and finding a puppy takes a long wait.
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