Aberdeen Terrier
Breed Description

The Aberdeen Terrier is also commonly known by several other names including the Scottish Terrier, Scottie, Scotty Dog, and historically as the Aberdeen. In its native Scotland, it has been referred to as the Die-hard due to its tenacious and determined nature. The breed has also been called the Little Diehard and the Highland Terrier in various historical texts. In some regions, particularly in older literature, you may encounter references to the Broken-haired Scotch Terrier or Wire-haired Scotch Terrier, though these terms have largely fallen out of use in modern times.

The Aberdeen Terrier stands as one of the most distinctive and recognizable terrier breeds, with its characteristic low-set, sturdy body and dignified bearing. This compact powerhouse of a dog combines substantial bone structure with surprising agility, creating a silhouette that is unmistakable in the canine world. Despite their small stature, Aberdeen Terriers possess a presence that commands attention, carrying themselves with an air of self-importance that belies their modest size. Their unique body proportions, with a relatively long head and short legs, give them a distinctive profile that has made them instantly recognizable to dog enthusiasts worldwide.

The breed's physical construction reflects centuries of purposeful breeding for both form and function. The Aberdeen Terrier's body is notably longer than it is tall, with a level topline and well-sprung ribs that provide ample lung capacity. Their deep chest extends well down between the forelegs, giving them the stamina needed for their original working purpose. The hindquarters are remarkably powerful for a dog of this size, with well-bent stifles and strong, muscular thighs that provide excellent driving power. This robust construction allows the Aberdeen Terrier to move with a distinctive rolling gait that is both efficient and eye-catching.

One of the most striking features of the Aberdeen Terrier is its head, which appears long in proportion to the overall size of the dog. The skull is of medium width, slightly domed, and covered with shorter, softer hair than the body coat. The distinctive eyebrows and beard frame an expression that is variously described as keen, sharp, and active, reflecting the breed's alert and intelligent nature. The eyes are small, dark, and almond-shaped, set well apart under heavy brows, giving the dog an almost human-like expression of wisdom and determination. The ears are small, pointed, and erect, set well up on the skull, adding to the breed's alert appearance.

American Kennel Club (AKC)

General Appearance: The Scottish Terrier is a small, compact, short-legged, sturdily-built dog of good bone and substance. His head is long in proportion to his size. He has a hard, wiry, weather-resistant coat and a thick-set, cobby body which is hung between short, heavy legs. These characteristics, joined with his very special keen, piercing, "varminty" expression, and his erect ears and tail are salient features of the breed.

Size, Proportion, Substance: The Scottish Terrier should have a thick body and heavy bone. The principal objective must be symmetry and balance without exaggeration. Equal consideration shall be given to height, weight, length of back and length of head. Height at withers for either sex should be about 10 inches. The length of back from withers to set-on of tail should be approximately 11 inches. Generally, a well-balanced Scottish Terrier dog should weigh from 19 to 22 pounds and a bitch from 18 to 21 pounds.

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

General Appearance: Thick-set, of a size to go to ground, short-legged, alert in carriage and suggestive of great power and activity in small compass. Head and tail carried erect give a general appearance of determination and intelligence. Very agile and active despite short legs.

Important Proportions: Skull and foreface of equal length. Characteristics: Loyal and faithful. Dignified, independent and reserved, but courageous and highly intelligent. Bold, but never aggressive. Temperament: Game, alert, dignified, independent but approachable, loyal and intelligent. Head and Skull: Long head but in proportion to size of dog. Without being out of proportion to size of dog, head should be long, length of skull enabling it to be fairly wide and yet retain narrow appearance.

United Kennel Club (UKC)

The Scottish Terrier is a small, compact, short-legged, sturdily built terrier with good bone and substance. He has a hard, wiry, weather-resistant coat and a thick-set, cobby body that is hung between short, heavy legs. The head is long in proportion to his size. The Scottish Terrier has a strong, deep bark that belies his size. He has a distinctive profile with his long skull, erect pointed ears, erect tail and his special keen, piercing, varminty expression.

Characteristics: The Scottish Terrier is alert and spirited but also stable and steady-going. He is a determined and thoughtful dog with a loving and gentle nature with those he knows, although he may be aloof with strangers. The breed is fearless and self-assured. He has been characterized as a diehard due to his rugged nature and endless determination.

Other Organizations

The Canadian Kennel Club recognizes the Aberdeen Terrier as the Scottish Terrier, describing it as a sturdy, compact terrier of good bone and substance, with the characteristic long head, erect ears and tail that give the breed its distinctive appearance. The Kennel Club (UK) standard emphasizes the breed's gameness and dignity, noting that while small in stature, the Aberdeen Terrier should give the impression of great power in a small package. Various international registries maintain similar standards, all emphasizing the breed's distinctive physical characteristics and spirited yet stable temperament.

The Aberdeen Terrier boasts a rich and storied history that stretches back several centuries into the misty highlands of Scotland. The breed's origins can be traced to the rugged terrain of the Scottish Highlands, where these tenacious little dogs were developed to hunt and eliminate vermin that threatened grain stores and livestock. The earliest ancestors of the Aberdeen Terrier were likely a diverse group of terriers indigenous to Scotland, bred purely for their working ability rather than appearance. These early terriers needed to be tough, fearless, and small enough to pursue prey into burrows and rocky crevices, yet strong enough to dispatch their quarry efficiently.

Historical records from the 15th and 16th centuries make reference to small, rough-coated terriers in Scotland, though these early dogs bore little resemblance to the modern Aberdeen Terrier. The breed as we know it today began to take shape in the 17th and 18th centuries, particularly in the Aberdeen area of Scotland, from which it derives one of its common names. During this period, Scottish farmers and gamekeepers selectively bred their terriers for specific traits: a weather-resistant coat to withstand the harsh Scottish climate, short legs to navigate rocky terrain and enter burrows, and an indomitable spirit that would not back down from any challenge.

The development of the Aberdeen Terrier into a distinct breed accelerated during the 19th century, coinciding with the Victorian era's passion for dog breeding and showing. The breed gained significant attention in the 1870s when Captain Gordon Murray and S.E. Shirley began exhibiting their terriers at dog shows. However, considerable confusion existed during this period, as various Scottish terrier breeds were often shown in the same classes and interbred freely. It wasn't until 1882 that the first breed club dedicated specifically to the Aberdeen Terrier was formed, helping to establish consistent breed standards and discourage crossbreeding with other terrier varieties.

The breed's popularity received a significant boost through its association with notable historical figures. Perhaps most famously, President Franklin D. Roosevelt's Aberdeen Terrier, Fala, became one of the most beloved presidential pets in American history. Fala accompanied Roosevelt everywhere and even had a bedroom in the White House. The little dog became so popular that he received more fan mail than many government officials, and his presence helped elevate the breed's profile internationally. During World War II, Fala became a symbol of the home front, appearing in propaganda films and helping to sell war bonds.

The Aberdeen Terrier's journey to international recognition was marked by both triumph and challenge. The breed was first imported to the United States in 1883, just two years after the formation of the American Kennel Club. Initial reception was modest, but dedicated breeders worked tirelessly to establish the breed in America. The Scottish Terrier Club of America was founded in 1900, making it one of the oldest breed clubs in the United States. Throughout the early 20th century, the breed's popularity grew steadily, aided by its distinctive appearance and spirited personality that appealed to both rural and urban dog owners.

The two World Wars had a significant impact on the Aberdeen Terrier population, particularly in its homeland. Many breeding programs were disrupted or abandoned entirely as resources became scarce and breeders were called to military service. However, dedicated enthusiasts on both sides of the Atlantic worked to preserve the breed's bloodlines, often at considerable personal sacrifice. The post-war period saw a resurgence in the breed's popularity, particularly in the United States, where returning servicemen who had encountered the breed overseas sought to acquire these distinctive terriers for their families.

Throughout the 20th century, the Aberdeen Terrier became increasingly popular as both a show dog and companion animal. The breed's success in the show ring has been remarkable, with Aberdeen Terriers winning numerous Best in Show awards at prestigious dog shows worldwide, including multiple wins at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. This show ring success has helped maintain interest in the breed while also ensuring that breeding practices remain focused on preserving the breed's distinctive characteristics and temperament.

In modern times, the Aberdeen Terrier has successfully transitioned from its working terrier roots to become primarily a companion animal, though it retains all the characteristics that made it such an effective working dog. The breed's popularity has remained relatively stable, avoiding the dramatic fluctuations that have affected many other breeds. This stability has been beneficial for the breed's health and temperament, as it has avoided the pitfalls of overbreeding that can occur when breeds become suddenly fashionable. Today's Aberdeen Terrier remains remarkably true to its historical type, a testament to the dedication of breeders who have carefully preserved this Scottish treasure for future generations to enjoy.

The Aberdeen Terrier was originally developed as a working terrier with a very specific set of functions that were vital to rural Scottish life. Primary among these was vermin control, a critical role in agricultural communities where rats and other rodents could devastate grain stores and spread disease. The Aberdeen Terrier's compact size, powerful jaws, and fearless temperament made it ideally suited for pursuing rats, mice, and other small predators into their burrows and dispatching them efficiently. Unlike some terriers that worked in packs, the Aberdeen Terrier was often expected to work independently, relying on its own judgment and tenacity to complete its task.

Beyond simple rodent control, Aberdeen Terriers were employed to hunt and eliminate a variety of small predators that threatened poultry and game birds. Foxes, badgers, and wildcats were all fair game for these determined little dogs. The breed's low-slung body allowed it to follow prey into dens and burrows that larger dogs couldn't access, while its weather-resistant coat provided protection from both the elements and the defensive attacks of cornered prey. The Aberdeen Terrier's loud, distinctive bark served multiple purposes: alerting handlers to the location of prey underground, warning of intruders, and intimidating adversaries many times its size.

In modern times, while few Aberdeen Terriers are called upon to perform their original working functions, the breed has successfully adapted to new roles while retaining the characteristics that made them such effective workers. Today's Aberdeen Terrier excels as a watchdog, using its naturally alert nature and willingness to sound the alarm to protect its home and family. The breed's territorial instincts, originally used to guard farms and homesteads, translate well to modern suburban and urban environments where they serve as effective deterrents to unwanted visitors.

The Aberdeen Terrier has also found success in various competitive dog sports that allow them to showcase their intelligence, agility, and determination. In earthdog trials, Aberdeen Terriers can demonstrate their natural hunting instincts in a controlled environment, following scent trails and navigating underground tunnels to locate quarry. Many excel in obedience competitions, though their independent nature means they require skilled handling and creative training methods. Agility competitions provide an outlet for their surprising athleticism, with many Aberdeen Terriers proving that their short legs are no barrier to navigating complex obstacle courses with speed and precision.

As therapy and emotional support animals, Aberdeen Terriers have found yet another modern function. Their compact size makes them suitable for visiting facilities where larger dogs might be impractical, while their dignified bearing and steady temperament can provide comfort to those in hospitals, nursing homes, and other care facilities. Some Aberdeen Terriers have been successfully trained as medical alert dogs, using their keen senses and intense focus to detect changes in their handler's condition and alert them to potential medical emergencies.

The breed's role as a companion animal represents perhaps its most important modern function. The Aberdeen Terrier's combination of independence and loyalty makes it an ideal pet for many different types of households. For elderly owners, the breed's moderate exercise requirements and manageable size make it a practical choice, while its alertness provides a sense of security. For families, the Aberdeen Terrier's playful nature and durability make it a wonderful children's companion, though its dignity means it won't tolerate rough handling. For single professionals, the breed's ability to entertain itself and adapt to apartment living makes it an excellent urban companion that doesn't require constant attention yet provides loyal companionship when desired.

The behavioral profile of the Aberdeen Terrier is a fascinating study in contrasts, combining the fierce independence of a working terrier with surprising sensitivity and devotion to their chosen people. At the core of the Aberdeen Terrier's personality is an unshakeable self-confidence that can sometimes border on stubbornness. This trait, essential for a dog bred to work independently underground, means that Aberdeen Terriers approach life with a certain dignity and self-assurance that owners find either charming or challenging, depending on the situation. They are not dogs that seek constant approval or validation; instead, they seem to possess an inner certainty about their place in the world that is remarkably cat-like in nature.

Intelligence is a hallmark of the breed, though it manifests differently than in breeds developed for close cooperation with humans. The Aberdeen Terrier's intelligence is practical and problem-solving oriented, reflecting its heritage as a dog that needed to think independently when pursuing prey underground. This intelligence can make training both rewarding and frustrating. Aberdeen Terriers learn quickly but may choose to ignore commands if they don't see the point or if something more interesting captures their attention. Successful training requires understanding this mindset and finding ways to make obedience the dog's idea rather than imposing one's will through force or repetition.

The breed's territorial instincts remain strong, making Aberdeen Terriers excellent watchdogs despite their small size. They are quick to alert their owners to anything unusual in their environment, from strange noises to unfamiliar visitors. This vigilance extends to their possessions and space; Aberdeen Terriers can be possessive of their toys, food, and favorite resting spots. Early socialization and training are essential to ensure these protective instincts don't develop into problematic guarding behaviors. When properly channeled, this territorial nature makes them devoted guardians of their home and family.

Social behavior in Aberdeen Terriers follows distinct patterns that owners must understand and respect. With their human family, these dogs can be affectionate and playful, though they typically maintain a certain reserve even with those they love most. They are not usually "velcro dogs" that need constant physical contact, preferring to be near their people rather than on them. Strangers are typically met with polite aloofness rather than enthusiasm. The Aberdeen Terrier will usually observe newcomers carefully before deciding whether to accept them, and even then, acceptance doesn't necessarily mean friendship. This discriminating nature means that when an Aberdeen Terrier does offer its affection, it feels particularly special and earned.

Play behavior in Aberdeen Terriers reflects their hunting heritage. They often enjoy games that involve chasing, catching, and "killing" toys, shaking them vigorously in a manner that mimics dispatching prey. Tug-of-war games appeal to their competitive nature, though owners should establish rules to prevent the dog from becoming too possessive or aggressive during play. Many Aberdeen Terriers retain a strong prey drive and will enthusiastically chase squirrels, birds, and other small animals, making a secure fence and leash essential for their safety. This prey drive can make relationships with smaller pets challenging, though Aberdeen Terriers raised with cats or other small animals from puppyhood often learn to coexist peacefully.

The breed's vocal behavior deserves special attention. Aberdeen Terriers have a distinctive, deep bark that seems impossibly large for such a small dog. They use their voice purposefully rather than indiscriminately, typically barking to alert, warn, or express strong emotion. Some individuals can be prone to excessive barking if not properly trained, particularly if left alone for long periods or if they become bored. The breed also has a range of other vocalizations, including grumbles, groans, and what many owners describe as "talking," using various sounds to communicate their needs and opinions to their human companions.

One of the most endearing behavioral traits of the Aberdeen Terrier is their sense of humor and capacity for mischief. Many owners report that their dogs seem to have a genuine sense of fun and enjoy playing pranks or engaging in silly behavior that makes their humans laugh. This playful side contrasts delightfully with their normally dignified demeanor and helps explain why the breed has maintained steady popularity as a companion animal. However, this cleverness can also lead to creative disobedience, with Aberdeen Terriers finding ingenious ways to circumvent rules or access forbidden areas. Owners must stay one step ahead of these intelligent dogs while maintaining a sense of humor about their antics.

The Aberdeen Terrier's integration into family life requires understanding and respecting the breed's unique personality traits and needs. These dogs typically form strong bonds with their immediate family while maintaining the independent spirit that defines the breed. In multi-person households, Aberdeen Terriers often choose a favorite person, usually the one who provides the most consistent care and training, though they remain affectionate with all family members. This preference doesn't mean they ignore others; rather, they simply show different levels of attachment and may respond more readily to their chosen person's commands and requests.

With children, Aberdeen Terriers can be wonderful companions when proper boundaries are established and respected by both parties. The breed's sturdy build makes them less fragile than many small dogs, allowing them to engage in active play with children. However, their dignity and self-respect mean they won't tolerate rough handling, tail pulling, or other disrespectful behavior. Children must be taught to interact appropriately with the dog, understanding that the Aberdeen Terrier is a living being deserving of respect, not a toy. When these boundaries are established early and consistently maintained, Aberdeen Terriers often develop deep, protective bonds with the children in their family, watching over them with the same vigilance they once applied to guarding Scottish homesteads.

The dynamics between Aberdeen Terriers and other pets in the household can be complex and require careful management. With other dogs, Aberdeen Terriers can coexist peacefully, particularly if raised together from puppyhood. However, their terrier nature means they may not back down from confrontations, even with much larger dogs. Same-sex aggression can be an issue, particularly between intact males. Many Aberdeen Terrier owners find that opposite-sex pairs work best if keeping multiple dogs. The breed's strong prey drive means that relationships with smaller pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, or birds require extreme caution and constant supervision. Cats present a special case; while many Aberdeen Terriers learn to live peacefully with household cats, the relationship often involves a careful negotiation of boundaries and mutual respect rather than close friendship.

The Aberdeen Terrier's adaptability to different living situations makes them suitable for various family configurations. In busy households, they can find quiet corners to retreat to when they need space, emerging when they're ready for interaction. Their moderate exercise needs mean they don't require a highly active family, though they certainly enjoy adventures and outings. For families with varying schedules, the Aberdeen Terrier's independence means they can entertain themselves for reasonable periods, though they should not be left alone for extended times regularly. The breed's adaptability extends to living spaces as well; they can thrive in apartments, suburban homes, or rural settings, as long as their basic needs for exercise, mental stimulation, and companionship are met.

Daily routines with an Aberdeen Terrier in the family typically revolve around several key activities that help maintain the dog's physical and mental well-being. Morning walks provide essential exercise and mental stimulation through exposure to different sights, sounds, and smells. These walks also serve as important bonding time between the dog and family members. Meal times become significant events, with the Aberdeen Terrier's food-motivated nature making them enthusiastic participants. Play sessions, whether indoors or in a secured yard, allow the dog to expend energy and engage their hunting instincts in appropriate ways. Evening routines often involve quieter activities, with many Aberdeen Terriers enjoying settling near their family during television time or while reading, content to simply be in the presence of their people without demanding constant attention.

Training and socialization within the family context require consistency from all members. Aberdeen Terriers quickly learn to exploit inconsistencies in rules and expectations, potentially developing unwanted behaviors if some family members are more lenient than others. Family meetings to discuss and agree upon training approaches, household rules, and boundaries can be valuable in maintaining consistency. Children old enough to participate in training should be involved under adult supervision, learning how to give commands clearly and reward appropriate behavior. This involvement helps establish the child's position in the household hierarchy while teaching them responsibility and empathy.

The Aberdeen Terrier's contribution to family life extends beyond simple companionship. Their watchdog instincts provide a sense of security, particularly for family members who may be home alone. Their compact size makes them excellent travel companions for family vacations and outings. Many families find that caring for an Aberdeen Terrier teaches children valuable lessons about responsibility, empathy, and the importance of routine. The breed's longevity means they often become integral parts of family history, present for major milestones and transitions, providing a constant source of comfort and continuity through life's changes.

The Aberdeen Terrier is generally a hardy and robust breed, benefiting from centuries of selective breeding for working ability and stamina. Their average lifespan of 12 to 15 years reflects their overall good health, though like all purebred dogs, they are predisposed to certain genetic health conditions that potential owners should be aware of. Understanding these health considerations allows owners to provide appropriate preventive care and early intervention when necessary, potentially extending both the length and quality of their dog's life.

One of the most significant health concerns in Aberdeen Terriers is Scottie Cramp, a breed-specific neurological disorder that affects the dog's ability to coordinate movement during periods of excitement or stress. This condition typically manifests between six months and one year of age, causing affected dogs to experience temporary muscle cramping and an unusual gait, particularly in the hind legs. While Scottie Cramp can be alarming to witness, it is not painful or life-threatening, and many dogs learn to manage their excitement levels to minimize episodes. The condition has a genetic component, and responsible breeders work to identify and eliminate affected bloodlines from their breeding programs.

Von Willebrand's Disease, a blood clotting disorder, occurs with higher frequency in Aberdeen Terriers than in the general dog population. This inherited condition affects the blood's ability to clot properly, potentially leading to excessive bleeding from minor injuries or during surgical procedures. The severity of von Willebrand's Disease varies considerably, with many affected dogs living normal lives with minimal symptoms. However, owners should inform their veterinarians if their Aberdeen Terrier has been diagnosed with or is at risk for this condition, as special precautions may be necessary during medical procedures. Genetic testing is available to identify carriers and affected dogs, allowing breeders to make informed decisions about breeding pairs.

Craniomandibular Osteopathy (CMO), also known as "Scottie Jaw" or "Lion Jaw," is another breed-specific condition that affects young Aberdeen Terriers, typically between four and eight months of age. This condition causes abnormal bone growth in the jaw, leading to difficulty eating and significant discomfort. While CMO can be distressing during its active phase, most affected dogs experience resolution of symptoms by one year of age as bone growth stabilizes. Management during the active phase focuses on pain relief and ensuring adequate nutrition, sometimes requiring soft foods or hand-feeding to maintain body condition.

Cancer, particularly bladder cancer (transitional cell carcinoma), occurs at higher rates in Aberdeen Terriers than in many other breeds. This predisposition has led to increased research into early detection methods and treatment options specific to the breed. Regular veterinary check-ups, including urinalysis and imaging studies for older dogs, can help detect bladder cancer in its early stages when treatment is most effective. Other cancers, including lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma, also occur in the breed, emphasizing the importance of regular health monitoring and prompt investigation of any unusual symptoms.

Cushing's Disease (hyperadrenocorticism) is an endocrine disorder that affects middle-aged to older Aberdeen Terriers with greater frequency than many other breeds. This condition results from excessive production of cortisol by the adrenal glands, leading to symptoms such as increased thirst and urination, pot-bellied appearance, hair loss, and lethargy. While Cushing's Disease requires lifelong management, many affected dogs maintain good quality of life with appropriate treatment. Regular blood work for senior Aberdeen Terriers can help detect this condition early, allowing for prompt intervention.

Allergies, both environmental and food-related, commonly affect Aberdeen Terriers, manifesting as skin irritation, chronic ear infections, or gastrointestinal upset. The breed's dense double coat can trap allergens close to the skin, exacerbating allergic reactions. Managing allergies often requires a multifaceted approach, including dietary modifications, regular grooming, environmental controls, and sometimes medication. Identifying and avoiding specific allergens through elimination diets or allergy testing can significantly improve affected dogs' comfort and quality of life.

Preventive care plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of Aberdeen Terriers throughout their lives. Regular veterinary check-ups, typically twice yearly for senior dogs, allow for early detection and treatment of developing health issues. Dental care is particularly important, as small breeds like the Aberdeen Terrier are prone to dental disease that can affect overall health. Daily tooth brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings help maintain oral health. Weight management through appropriate diet and exercise prevents obesity-related health problems and reduces stress on joints. Regular grooming not only maintains coat health but also provides opportunities to check for lumps, bumps, or skin issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. With proper care and attention to their specific health needs, Aberdeen Terriers can enjoy long, healthy, and active lives as cherished family companions.

If you're looking to adopt an Aberdeen Terrier, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Aberdeen Terriers waiting for their forever homes.