Pet Wiki

Skye Terrier

Also called Terrier of the Western Isles

A dignified, graceful terrier that bonds very closely with its own person or family.

SizeSmall
Weight12 to 20.4 kg (26 to 45 lb)12
Height23 to 26 cm (9 to 10 in)32
Length105 cm (41 in)3
Lifespanfrom 12 years41
CoatDouble coat: soft woolly undercoat, long hard straight topcoat
OriginScotland (Isle of Skye and the Hebrides), Great Britain.34
GroupTerriers (FCI group 3)
Last checked2026-09-30
Recognised breedShort profile
deeply loyal and devoted
brave and fearless
elegant and dignified
432

Personality what they are like

A dignified, graceful terrier that bonds very closely with its own person or family. It is plucky and bold, reserved and watchful around strangers, and warmly affectionate with the people it knows.342

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Skye Terrier. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • Brushingevery week
  • Bathevery 8 weeks
  • Hand strippingHand stripping keeps the harsh texture; clipping also worksevery 12 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
  • Ear checkevery 2 weeks
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year

Coat and looks how to spot one

double coat: soft woolly undercoat, long hard straight topcoat

A long, low, level terrier, about twice as long as it is tall. The long, straight outer coat lies flat over a short soft undercoat, and the hair on the head falls over the forehead and eyes like a veil and forms a small beard.312

Coloursblackdark greylight greyfawncreamalways with black points on ears and muzzle3

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate: up to about an hour a day, for example two or three short walks or play sessions, though it will happily do more.42

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Brush the long coat a few times a week, working through to the undercoat to keep it tangle-free. The Royal Kennel Club rates grooming as more than once a week.42

Home where they are happiest

Suits a small house with a small to medium garden, in town or country.4

Company who they like around

Often a one-person or one-family dog that likes being close to its people. Tends to prefer the company of adults and does best when introduced to newcomers calmly.32

The story where it all began

One of Scotland's oldest terriers, it was bred in the Western Isles to go after fox, badger and otter, and was described as early as 1570. It became fashionable after Queen Victoria took one up in 1842, and it is now counted among the UK's vulnerable native breeds.423

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Greyfriars Bobby, the famous Edinburgh dog said to have kept watch at his master's grave for 14 years, is linked with the breed, and a monument to him was put up in 1872.4

  2. 2

    The breed was mentioned in Dr John Caius's book 'Of English Dogges' in 1570.4

  3. 3

    Queen Victoria's interest from 1842 made Skyes a favourite of Victorian high society.4

  4. 4

    The FCI standard describes an ideal nose-to-tail length of about 105 cm on a dog only around 25 cm tall.3

  5. 5

    Over the years it has also been called the Clydesdale, Paisley and Glasgow Terrier.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is named after the Isle of Skye, off the northwest coast of Scotland, where it originated more than 400 years ago.5

Famous ones stars of the breed

Name ideas for your new friend

IslaSkyeHeatherThistleBrambleLarkPippinFionaAngusCloverMistyTartan

A day in the life told by a Skye Terrier

This morning, I guarded my favorite spot on the rug. When my human came down, I gave a dignified wag. We went for a walk along the lane, and I inspected every scent with great seriousness. A stranger passed, so I stayed close to my human's leg. Back home, I curled up for a nap, but I kept one eye open. At teatime, I got a cuddle, just what a noble terrier deserves.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 75, Terrier group, country of origin Great Britain.3
The Royal Kennel Club
Recognised in the Terrier group and listed as a Vulnerable Native Breed.4
American Kennel Club (AKC)
Recognised in 1887.2

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Skye Terrier tip

Choose small, low-calorie treats for training, as this breed gains weight easily and extra pounds strain the long back. Many owners use part of the daily kibble for rewards, and fresh vegetables make excellent low-calorie options.

Source: akc.org petmd.com

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Skye Terrier, and at what times?

Feed your adult Skye Terrier at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Regular meal times help their digestion, so aim for consistent morning and evening feeds. Always follow the food label's guidance and check with your vet for your dog's specific needs.7

What should a Skye Terrier eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A high-quality dog food suited to your Skye's age and size is ideal. Many human foods are dangerous, especially grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, xylitol, chocolate, and onions. Stick to dog-safe treats and ask your vet for a tailored diet plan.8

How often should I bathe a Skye Terrier?

Bathing every eight weeks works well for a Skye Terrier, and at least once every three months is fine. Over-bathing can dry their double coat, so use a gentle dog shampoo. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days.9 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Skye Terrier need brushing?

Brush your Skye Terrier a few times a week to keep its long, double coat tangle-free. Working through to the undercoat is important, and weekly brushing is the minimum. Pet Wiki's plan recommends brushing every seven days.42 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Skye Terrier's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every three weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part). If you're unsure, ask your vet or a groomer to show you the safe technique.9 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Skye Terrier need?

Your Skye Terrier needs about an hour of exercise daily, split into two or three short walks or play sessions. They are happy with moderate activity but will enjoy a bit more. Pet Wiki's plan includes daily walks and play.42 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Skye Terrier's teeth and ears?

Brush your Skye's teeth daily if possible, or at least two to three times a week, using dog toothpaste only. Check ears every two weeks and clean gently with a vet-recommended solution; never push anything into the ear canal. Pet Wiki's plan suggests daily teeth brushing and ear checks every 14 days.9 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Skye Terrier live?

A Skye Terrier typically lives 12 years or more, with many enjoying a long, healthy life. Regular vet check-ups and good care help them thrive into their senior years.41

Is a Skye Terrier good with children and other pets?

Skye Terriers bond closely with their own family and tend to prefer adults, but they can be gentle with older, respectful children. They are reserved around strangers and may do best with calm introductions to other pets. Every dog is an individual, so ask a good breeder about your puppy's temperament.32

Can a Skye Terrier be left alone?

Skye Terriers are very people-oriented and dislike being left alone for long periods. They thrive when close to their family, so gradual training for short absences is best. If you're away often, consider a pet sitter or doggy daycare, and talk to your breeder for advice.32

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. Skye Terrier - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for weight, lifespan, coat
  2. Skye Terrier - Vetstreet vetstreet.comused for AKC recognition, height, weight, grooming, exercise, fun facts
  3. FCI Standard No. 75 - Skye Terrier fci.beused for origin, recognition, size, length, coat, colours, temperament, history
  4. Skye Terrier - The Royal Kennel Club royalkennelclub.comused for recognition, vulnerable status, exercise, grooming, home, lifespan, history, fun facts
  5. akc.org akc.org
  6. royalkennelclub.com royalkennelclub.com
  7. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  8. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  9. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.