The Skye Terrier is one of several terrier breeds from Scotland. It is easily differentiated from the others due to its long coat.


Skye Terriers are long dogs that are low to the ground, almost twice as long as they are tall. They stand at 10 inches and weigh between 19-23 pounds, with males being larger. Their topcoat is long and hard with an undercoat that is soft and wooly. Their fur parts in the middle of the back and is about 5 ½ inches in length. It is shorter on the head, veiling the forehead and eyes and giving them a moderate beard. They are solid in color and can be black, blue, gray-blue, dark or light gray, silver, platinum, fawn, or cream. Black points may be present on the ears, muzzle and tail tip and a small amount of white on the chest is allowed. Ears are feathered can be either erect or dropped, with the dropped version being rare. Their long tail also has feathering.

The history of the Skye Terrier has two debated versions. The first lies in the legend of a Spanish shipwreck in the 1600s off the Isle of Skye. Maltese dogs off the ship were said to mate with local terriers to create the breed. However, a book written by John Caius decades before describes the following:

“lap dogs which were brought out of the barbarous borders from the uttermost countries northward, and they by reason of the length of their heare, make show neither face nor body”

Based on this account it is more likely the breed existed before the shipwreck although it is possible some Maltese blood may have still been added to the existing dogs. With its low stature Welsh Corgis may have also contributed to the bloodline or even the Swedish Vallhund from Viking invaders.

Originally used to hunt fox, badger, and otter, the Skye Terrier caught the eye of Queen Victoria in the 19th century, increasing their popularity. While the drop eared variety was favored for working dogs, the prick ear gained favor at this same time as pet and show dogs. They would be first shown with the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1887.

Today, like another Scottish terrier, the Dandie Dinmont, they are one of the most endangered breeds of dogs with only 30 born in the United Kingdom in 2005.
Skye Terriers are an extremely loyal and affectionate breed that makes an excellent companion. They enjoy attention and can sometimes attach themselves to one person. It is important to socialize them at a young age. They can be dominate with other dogs and do not get along well with small non-canine pets due to their prey drive. This can be a difficult breed to train and can be snappish around children.

The Skye Terrier is a healthy breed with a life expectancy of 12-15 years. They are prone to degenerative disc disease and mammary cancer. Other health concerns include hemangiosarcomas, autoimmune disease, and hyperthyroidism.

This breed adapts well to apartment life provided they have a daily walk. Care should be taken when they are allowed off leash to ensure they are in a safe, fenced area due to their prey drive.

Although resistant to tangling the coat of a Skye Terrier needs to be brushed at least weakly. Their coat is kept natural although trimming around their toes and paw pads is recommended. They are average shedders.