The Skye Terrier, also known as the Isle of Skye Terrier or simply the Skye, appears much the same today as it did nearly four centuries ago: long, low to the ground, level-backed and about twice as long as he is tall. The Skye is known for his huge prick ears and flowing coat that falls straight down both sides of his body nearly reaching the ground. He was bred to be a working terrier, capable of tracking and overtaking badger, fox and otter and going to ground when necessary. The Skye is courageous, strong, even-tempered, loyal, friendly with friends and family and standoffish with strangers. The Skye Terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1887, as a member of the Terrier Group.
The mature male Skye Terrier should stand 10 inches at the withers, and adult bitches should stand 9½ inches in height. Adults typically weigh between 19 and 23 pounds. He has a double coat, with a short wooly undercoat and a hard, straight flat overcoat that is parted down the middle of the back. The coat color can be black, blue, dark or light gray, silver platinum, fawn or cream. There should be black points on the ears, muzzle and tail tip. His long coat can take up to 3 years to develop and requires regular grooming.
The Skye Terrier was developed centuries ago on the northwestern islands of Scotland, called the Inner Hebrides, on the Isle of Skye, where it was used to hunt in rocky dens, burrow, cairns and coverts and even take to water if necessary to accomplish the task at hand. In the mid-16th century, English royalty became enamored with the Skye, making it quickly the most fashionable pet among nobility and commoners alike. Queen Victoria acquired a
Skye Terriers demand to be the center of attention at all times and will do whatever it requires to maintain that attention, including make mischief around the house. Skyes are laid back when indoors, happy to curl up on the first available lap for an afternoon of rest and relaxation, but they do enjoy getting out and moving several times a day. They are avid chasers and will bolt after anything that moves – no
The Skye Terrier is a long, low to the ground dog with an elegant appearance. The head is long with a slight stop. The ears are prick or folded, black, and heavily feathered. The tail is also well feathered and hangs down, a unique trait for a terrier breed. The medium sized eyes are brown and alert. The nose should be black and the teeth meet in a scissors bite. The neck is long and
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