Scottie dogs are known for their sturdy build and compact size, but their weight can vary depending on their age, sex, and overall health.
On average, a healthy adult Scottie dog weighs between 18 and 25 pounds.
To maintain a healthy weight, Scottie dogs need regular exercise, such as daily walks and playtime, which can be as short as 15 minutes.
A well-balanced diet is also crucial, with Scottie dogs requiring 1-2 cups of high-quality dog food per day, divided into two meals.
As a general rule, Scottie dogs should not be overfed, as this can lead to weight gain and other health problems.
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Terrier Nutrition Basics
Scottish Terriers need to eat a dog food that meets the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
You should also work with your veterinarian to choose the best food for your dog, as they can provide personalized advice.
Scottish Terriers do well with at least two meals each day, instead of eating one large meal.
Scotties are highly intelligent dogs and may benefit from puzzle feeders, treat dispensers, or snuffle mats to mentally stimulate them during mealtime.
Healthy Scottish Terriers shouldn’t need supplementation if they are eating an AAFCO-approved dog food.
However, if your vet deems it necessary, supplements or a prescription diet may be recommended.
Fresh water should always be provided for your Scottish terrier.
You should discuss both the amount of food and type of diet with your vet to ensure you’re meeting your dog’s individual needs.
Feeding two measured meals per day rather than free-feeding is best to prevent overfeeding and subsequent weight gain.
The amount you need to feed your Scottie depends on your individual dog’s health, lifestyle, and size.
You can follow portion guidance on your AAFCO-approved dog food packaging, but your veterinarian will give you the best advice for how much to feed your dog.
Scottish Terriers can be prone to digestive issues, so you might have to try a few different foods before you find one your dog can stomach.
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Ask your vet for food recommendations that might work best for your pet if you’re having trouble finding a suitable one.
A high-quality, high protein, breed or size-specific dog food that contains all the nutrients needed for your pet to grow as they should is ideal for maintaining a healthy weight.
You should talk with your vet about how much food your Scottie will require each day, as every dog has different needs.
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Size
Scottish Terriers are a small breed of dog, but don't let their size fool you - they have big personalities! Adult Scottish Terriers typically stand about 10 inches tall at their shoulder.
Male adult Scotties weigh between 19-22 pounds, while females are usually between 18-21 pounds. This small dog was the perfect size for vermin hunting but is also a great family dog for any living environment, country or city.
Here's a size and growth chart for Scottish Terriers to give you a better idea of how they grow:
Scottish Terriers reach their full size and weight by the age of 12 months, which is the norm for breeds of this size.
Factors Affecting Size
Environmental factors play a vital role in a dog's size, with nutrition and diet being especially important during the puppy years.
Proper nutrition, especially during the first year of a dog's life, is crucial for reaching the average standard size.
The sex of a dog also affects its size, with males typically weighing just a bit more than females.
Males usually weigh between 19-22 pounds, while females are usually between 18-21 pounds.
Genetics can also impact a Scottish Terrier's size, with every dog being different, even within the same breed.
Some pups may be naturally smaller than their counterparts due to genetics.
Breeding and genetics can affect how big a Scottish Terrier gets, and if it's not bred to meet the breed standards, it could be bigger or smaller than typical.
Here's a breakdown of the standard weights of Scottish Terriers as they age:
Exercise and Activity
Scottie dogs need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They require at least one hour of daily exercise, which can be broken down into long walks, playtime, and running around in a securely fenced space.
A good long walk or two, plus some playtime, will go a long way for these pups. They love to run and chase, so throwing a ball or toy is an excellent way to expend energy.
Scotties have low to moderate exercise needs, requiring around 30-45 minutes of exercise every day. This can include brisk walks, playtime in a securely fenced yard, and interactive games.
Mental stimulation is also important for Scotties, as they are intelligent dogs that thrive on problem-solving activities and puzzle toys. Providing a balance of physical exercise and mental challenges will keep them happy and fulfilled.
Scottie puppies have different exercise requirements compared to adult dogs. They should have short play sessions several times a day, allowing them to explore and interact with their environment.
Here's a breakdown of the exercise needs of Scottie dogs:
It's essential to provide Scottie dogs with a securely fenced space for running off-leash, as they have a strong prey drive and may bolt after animals of all sizes.
Healthy Diet
Fresh water is essential for your Scottie, so make sure to always provide it.
Feed your Scottish Terrier a high-quality, nutritionally balanced canine diet that's tailored to their individual needs. Discuss the amount and type of food with your vet to ensure you're meeting those needs.
It's best to feed two measured meals per day rather than free-feeding, which can lead to overeating.
Scotties can be prone to obesity, so choose a high-quality, high-protein dog food that's breed-specific. This will help prevent weight gain and ensure your pet gets all the necessary nutrients.
Your vet can help you determine the right amount of food for your Scottie, as every dog has different needs.
If your Scottie has digestive issues, don't worry – it's common! You might need to try a few different foods before finding one that works. Ask your vet for recommendations if you're having trouble finding a suitable food.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Scotties bigger than westies?
Scotties are generally larger than Westies, weighing between 19-23 pounds compared to the Westie's 13-22 pounds. On average, a Scottie weighs about 1-2 pounds more than a Westie.
Sources
- https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/scottish-terrier
- https://www.ellevetsciences.com/pet-care/breed-profile-all-about-scottish-terriers/
- https://www.thesprucepets.com/scottish-terrier-dog-breed-profile-4782421
- https://www.borrowmydoggy.com/doggypedia/dog-breed-guides-scottish-terrier
- https://www.hepper.com/scottish-terrier-size-weight-growth-chart/
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