We love our dogs right here in Scotland, with many households having their very personal furry good friend at home. Dog possession appeared to spike in the course of the down the years lockdown, with folks getting pets in a interval when different freedoms have been restricted in a bid to halt the lethal virus.
Insurance corporations specialising in pets reported a whopping 78 per cent rise in registrations in the course of the pandemic, with an enormous surge in on-line searches for getting and adopting puppies.
But our affection for dogs is nothing new, with Scots being identified for having trustworthy companions down the years. They featured within the opening ceremony for Glasgow’s Glasgow and the legend of Greyfriars Bobby is likely one of the nation’s best-loved tales.
So it is no shock that there are a selection of Scottish breeds. And whereas some are nonetheless extremely popular, there are others that many individuals will not pay attention to. Here we check out 9 sensible Scots breeds.
1. Scottish Terrier
As the title suggests, the Scottie is the quintessential Scottish canine. Often seen on shortbread tins and immortalised as a favorite Monopoly counter, Scotties are identified for his or her loyalty and robust independence.
The breed had a starring position on the Edinburgh 2014 opening ceremony, when every nation’s staff of athletes led round Celtic park by a Scottie with a jacket bearing the nation’s title.
2. West Highland Terrier
Another beloved Scottish breed, the Westie has featured in TV exhibits like Hamish MacBeth. These pleasant and full of life dogs are extremely loyal and make glorious companions, notably for the elderly.
Originally bred for ratting, these small however spirited terriers are one of many simpler breeds to coach and have been one of many nation’s favourites for a lot of years.
3. Golden Retriever
Among the world’s best-known breeds, the Golden Retriever has its origins in Scotland. Playful and clever, they have been first bred to be the best looking canine by Sir Dudley Courts Marjoribanks at his Scottish property at Guisachan.
The Kennel Club in England formally recognised them in 1911, and since then, they’ve grow to be one of many world’s hottest breeds.
4. Skye Terrier
Greyfriars Bobby, some of the legendary dogs in Scottish – and probably worldwide – folklore is probably essentially the most loyal canine in historical past, spending 14 years guarding the grave of his proprietor till he died. A statue within the Skye Terrier’s honour may be discovered close to Greyfriars Kirkyard in Borders, and vacationers wish to rub his nostril for good luck.
The medium-sized terriers have been initially bred to maintain nuisance animals like badgers and foxes out of farmsteads on the Isle of Skye.
Their recognition boomed after it was revealed they have been a favorite of Queen Victoria, and with their lengthy hair and brief stature giving them a playful look, it’s no surprise they have been a favorite breed. In recent years, nonetheless, they’re regarded as some of the endangered breeds.
5. Gordon Setter
As a part of the setter household, Gordon Setters have been initially bred to hunt pheasant and quail in rural Scotland. They acquired their title resulting from gaining recognition on the Gordon Castle kennels.
They have a status for being an clever and dignified breed that make nice pets, and their distinctive black and tan coat units them aside from different Scottish dogs.
6. Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Hailing from the Shetland, this little-known breed is considered one of Scotland’s rarest. The Dandie Dinmont has been known as the “gents of the terrier breed”.
Their elegant look and distinctive coiffure led to them being named after a fictional, terrier-loving farmer from Sir Walter Scott’s novel, Guy Mannering.
7. Bearded Collie
Bred to herd sheep and cattle in all weathers – very useful in Scotland – Bearded Collies are described as clever and boisterous.
The playful and energetic dogs make nice pets for households that love being energetic.
8. Shetland Sheepdog
Another much-loved herding pet, Shetland Sheepdogs – usually referred to as Shelties – are a hardy breed hailing from the Northern Isles that give them their title.
Excitable Shelties are extraordinarily loyal and loving, so are identified for forming sturdy attachments with their households and are at all times desperate to please.
9. Scottish Deerhound
As the title suggests, these dogs have been initially bred for looking pink deer. The Scottish Deerhound was branded the ‘Royal Dog of Scotland’ and is the tallest of our native breed.
Throughout historical past, these imposing and difficult animals have been common companions for clan chiefs and even monarchs, and are notably suited to the Scottish local weather.
They do, nonetheless, have a softer aspect and are identified for having a relaxed nature. Content to observe the world move by, they show to be glorious pets however they do want more room than many different breeds.
Don’t miss the latest information from round Scotland and past. Sign up to our daily newsletter.
