Nine amazing Scottish dog breeds including some you may not know

A parade of rare Dandie Dinmont Terriers in the Borders
A parade of rare Dandie Dinmont Terriers in the Borders -Credit:Andrew Milligan/PA Wire


We love our dogs here in Scotland, with many families having their very own furry friend at home. Dog ownership appeared to spike during the down the years lockdown, with people getting pets in a period when other freedoms were restricted in a bid to halt the deadly virus.

Insurance companies specialising in pets reported a whopping 78 per cent rise in registrations during the pandemic, with a huge surge in online searches for buying and adopting puppies.

But our affection for dogs is nothing new, with Scots being known for having faithful companions down the years. They featured in the opening ceremony for Glasgow's Glasgow and the legend of Greyfriars Bobby is one of the nation's best-loved tales.

So it's no surprise that there are a number of Scottish breeds. And while some are still very popular, there are others that many people won't be aware of. Here we take a look at nine brilliant Scots breeds.

1. Scottish Terrier
Hamish, a Scottie from Bathgate, led the Canadian and Tongan teams out at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games opening ceremony
Hamish, a Scottie from Bathgate, led the Canadian and Tongan teams out at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games opening ceremony -Credit:Reach PLC

As the name suggests, the Scottie is the quintessential Scottish dog. Often seen on shortbread tins and immortalised as a favourite Monopoly counter, Scotties are known for their loyalty and strong independence.

The breed had a starring role at the Edinburgh 2014 opening ceremony, when each country's team of athletes led around Celtic park by a Scottie with a jacket bearing the nation's name.

2. West Highland Terrier
Westies are one of Scotland's most iconic breeds
Westies are one of Scotland's most iconic breeds -Credit:Getty

Another beloved Scottish breed, the Westie has featured in TV shows like Hamish MacBeth. These friendly and lively dogs are incredibly loyal and make excellent companions, particularly for the elderly.

Originally bred for ratting, these small but spirited terriers are one of the easier breeds to train and have been one of the nation's favourites for many years.

3. Golden Retriever
Golden retrievers are beloved worldwide, as shown by this huge meetup on the eve of the Boston Marathon in the US
Golden Retrievers are beloved worldwide, as shown by this huge meetup on the eve of the Boston Marathon in the US -Credit:AFP via Getty Images

Among the world's best-known breeds, the Golden Retriever has its origins in Scotland. Playful and intelligent, they were first bred to be the ideal hunting dog by Sir Dudley Courts Marjoribanks at his Scottish estate at Guisachan.

The Kennel Club in England officially recognised them in 1911, and since then, they've become one of the world's most popular breeds.

4. Skye Terrier
Skye Terriers were the darlings of Victorian society
Skye Terriers were the darlings of Victorian society -Credit:Getty Images

Greyfriars Bobby, one of the most legendary dogs in Scottish - and potentially worldwide - folklore is potentially the most loyal dog in history, spending 14 years guarding the grave of his owner until he died. A statue in the Skye Terrier's honour can be found near Greyfriars Kirkyard in Borders, and tourists like to rub his nose for good luck.

The medium-sized terriers were originally bred to keep nuisance animals like badgers and foxes out of farmsteads on the Isle of Skye.

Their popularity boomed after it was revealed they were a favourite of Queen Victoria, and with their long hair and short stature giving them a playful appearance, it is no wonder they were a favourite breed. In recent years, however, they are thought to be one of the most endangered breeds.

5. Gordon Setter
Gordon Setters make great pets
Gordon Setters make great pets -Credit:Bobby Acree/Getty Images

As part of the setter family, Gordon Setters were initially bred to hunt pheasant and quail in rural Scotland. They got their name due to gaining popularity at the Gordon Castle kennels.

They have a reputation for being an intelligent and dignified breed that make great pets, and their distinctive black and tan coat sets them apart from other Scottish dogs.

6. Dandie Dinmont Terrier
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier was named after a Sir Walter Scott character
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier was named after a Sir Walter Scott character -Credit:Getty

Hailing from the Shetland, this little-known breed is one of Scotland's rarest. The Dandie Dinmont has been referred to as the "gentlemen of the terrier breed".

Their elegant look and unique hairstyle led to them being named after a fictional, terrier-loving farmer from Sir Walter Scott's novel, Guy Mannering.

7. Bearded Collie
Bearded Collies are a good fit for active families
Bearded Collies are a good fit for active families -Credit:Getty

Bred to herd sheep and cattle in all weathers - very handy in Scotland - Bearded Collies are described as intelligent and boisterous.

The playful and energetic dogs make great pets for families that love being active.

8. Shetland Sheepdog
Shelties are extremely loyal
Shelties are extremely loyal -Credit:SWNS

Another much-loved herding pet, Shetland Sheepdogs - often called Shelties - are a hardy breed hailing from the Northern Isles that give them their name.

Excitable Shelties are extremely loyal and loving, so are known for forming strong attachments with their families and are always eager to please.

9. Scottish Deerhound
Scottish Deerhounds are well-suited to our climate
Scottish Deerhounds are well-suited to our climate -Credit:Alasdair Denton-Miller

As the name suggests, these dogs were initially bred for hunting red deer. The Scottish Deerhound was branded the 'Royal Dog of Scotland' and is the tallest of our native breed.

Throughout history, these imposing and tough animals were regular companions for clan chiefs and even monarchs, and are particularly suited to the Scottish climate.

They do, however, have a softer side and are known for having a relaxed nature. Content to watch the world pass by, they prove to be excellent pets but they do need more space than many other breeds.

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