How to Train a Scottish Terrier

Introduction: Understanding the Scottish Terrier Personality

Scottish Terriers, often referred to affectionately as “Scotties”, are a dignified and independent breed. Originating from the rugged terrains of Scotland, these compact, sturdy dogs were bred for hunting vermin. Recognized for their distinct beard, eyebrows, and spirited nature, Scotties have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. They are known for their confidence, intelligence, and sometimes stubborn temperament. While they are often reserved with strangers, their loyalty to their families is unmatched. This bold and brainy breed may offer some resistance during training, but with the right approach, they can be taught to showcase their best behaviors.

The Importance of Early Socialization

For a breed as self-assured as the Scottish Terrier, early socialization is essential. Due to their innate wariness of strangers and inherent hunting instincts, exposing Scotties to various people, environments, and animals during their early months is imperative. This helps mold them into well-rounded, adaptable adult dogs.

Initiate socialization by introducing your Scottie to different friendly humans and animals. Encounters with various stimuli, encompassing different sounds, sights, and experiences, can mitigate the development of fear or aggression. Puppy training classes are invaluable for structured socialization. These classes provide the dual benefit of teaching foundational commands and acquainting puppies with diverse dogs and humans.

Engaging in frequent outdoor activities, such as park visits, drives, or even brief trips to pet-friendly locales, further broadens their adaptability horizons. Always prioritize positivity in every experience. Commend your Scottish Terrier’s calm behaviors with treats and praise, and be prepared to extract them from overwhelming scenarios.

Basic Command Training

The foundation of training a Scottish Terrier revolves around positive reinforcement. Their independent streak might present a challenge, but with rewards, be they treats, verbal praises, or play, they’re more receptive to learning.

• Sit: Attract your Scottie’s attention with a treat held near their nose, lifting it upwards. As they follow the treat with their gaze, they should naturally sit. At this point, voice the command “Sit”, reward them, and lavish them with praise.
• Stay: Once seated, extend your palm towards their face while uttering “Stay”. Create distance gradually. If they remain in position, reward their obedience with treats and compliments.
• Come: Using a leash, stoop to their level and beckon with “Come”, drawing them gently towards you with the leash. Reward their compliance with affection and treats.
• Heel: With your Scottie on a leash, initiate walking. If they either race ahead or trail behind, cease walking until they reposition by your side. With time, they’ll deduce that maintaining pace ensures continued exploration.

To maintain their enthusiasm for training, always conclude sessions positively. This way, they’ll equate training with joyous experiences.

Potty Training Tips for Scottish Terriers

Scotties, akin to all breeds, mandate consistent patience during the potty training phase. Their small constitution means frequent toilet breaks, especially during puppyhood.

• Establish a Routine: Regularity is beneficial for Scottish Terriers. Feed them punctually, as it aids in predicting toilet breaks. Puppies typically need the toilet post meals, post-wake, and before bedtime.
• Designate a Spot: Consistently direct your Scottie to a specific outdoor location or indoor pad for toileting. They will soon correlate this space with toilet duties.
• Manage Accidents with Compassion: Missteps are integral to potty training. If they’re caught red-handed, a simple “Oops!” followed by guiding them to the correct spot is sufficient. Avoid rebukes as they can foster apprehension, hampering training progress.
• Acknowledge Success: Celebrate every time they use the designated spot, either with verbal praise, a treat, or play.

Addressing Common Behavioral Issues

Scottish Terriers, with their strong-willed nature, can sometimes display certain behavioral challenges. Here are some common issues and strategies to address them:

• Excessive Barking: While barking is a normal dog behavior, Scotties can sometimes be overly vocal due to boredom or alertness. Distracting them with toys, practicing the “Quiet” command, or ensuring they have ample physical and mental exercise can mitigate excessive barking.
• Digging: Bred as hunters, Scottish Terriers have a natural instinct to dig. Rather than trying to stop this behavior completely, consider designating a specific spot in your yard where it’s okay for them to dig.
• Stubbornness: Their independent nature might come across as stubbornness during training. Using positive reinforcement techniques and maintaining consistency will eventually yield results.

Harness and Leash Training

Scotties, being naturally curious and sometimes headstrong, benefit from proper leash training. It ensures not only their safety but also makes walks enjoyable for both the dog and the owner.

• Introducing the Harness: Let your Scottie familiarize themselves with the harness before you put it on. Treats can be used as rewards for their curiosity.
• Progressive Familiarization: Begin by letting them wear the harness indoors, gradually increasing the time they have it on. Reward them for showing calm behavior.
• Incorporating the Leash: Once comfortable with the harness, introduce the leash. Start with indoor training and then transition to short outdoor walks.
• Guided Walks: Keep your Scottish Terrier close during walks. If they try to pull, stop and only proceed when they relax.

Enrichment and Mental Stimulation

Given their intelligent and spirited nature, Scottish Terriers flourish with ample mental stimulation.

• Interactive Toys: Toys that make them think or work for a treat can be excellent tools to keep them mentally engaged.
• Regular Training: Introducing new commands or tricks challenges their cognitive abilities and provides valuable bonding time.
• Varied Experiences: Change up your walking routes or introduce them to new environments and toys, offering new sensory experiences.

Establishing and Maintaining Boundaries

Scotties, with their confident demeanor, require clear household rules to thrive.

• Consistency: All family members should be consistent with the rules. For instance, if your Scottie isn’t allowed on the bed, this rule should be universal.
• Continuous Training: Occasional refreshers in training ensure that boundaries are maintained.
• Positive Reinforcements: Encourage behaviors you want to see by rewarding them and redirecting unwanted behaviors.

Conclusion

Scottish Terriers, with their robust personalities, present unique joys and challenges. With understanding, patience, and the right training approach, your Scottie will not only be well-mannered but will also shine with all the qualities that make this breed truly special.