|
| First Dog | Dog Care | Dog Training | Dog Feeding | Dog Health | Dog Breeding | Dog Showing | OutDoor Dogs | Working Dogs | Careers with Dogs | Forum | Pet Links | Site Map | Home | |
SKYE TERRIER |
|||||||
|
Additonal Breeds Starting With Letter:
Pet Sites
 |
One historian says the Skye hailed from the Isle of Skye more than 400 years ago, and was described by Caius nearly in its present form, . . . brought out of barbarous borders fro1 the uttermost countryes northward . . . which, by reason of the length of heare, makes showe neither of face nor of body." Another theory suggests that shipwrecked Maltese types from the ill-fated Spanish Armada mated with local terriers (probably Cairns or Cairn prototypes) to create the breed in the 1600s. Certainly, other breeds added their influence to create the extreme ratio of length to height. Once called the Terrier of the Western Islands, he evolved to his present form isolated on the rocky Isle of Skye. Whatever his
history, he is a distinctive terrier. His silken beauty has given him
the nickname of the "heavenly breed." Queen Victoria added the
Skye to her kennel, and its reputation was established. The coat was silky
on the original working dog, although not as long.
The Skye has
not changed much over the years, and has not followed the whims of fashion.
The motto of the Skye Club of Scotland is: Wha daur meddle wi* me.
This could refer to the fact that the tough terrier dares anyone to
challenge him, but it could also be a warning to future owners and breeders
not to meddle with a good thing! The only variable has been the ears.
Prior to 1890, most Skyes had drop ears, but the prick ear became more
prevalent. Although either type is allowed, the pendant ear is rarely
seen today.
Around 1858, an Edinburgh shepherd
died without family or friend—other than a little Skye Terrier named
"Bobby." The little gray dog took up vigil on the shepherd's
grave in Greyfriars' churchyard. Although he was coaxed from the graveyard
time after time and offered the comforts of a home, he preferred to
stay with his master. Finally,
Bobby was given a permanent license and allowed to stay in the graveyard.
Fed by the townspeople, he continued his vigil until his death, ten
years after his owner's. A monument was later erected at the cemetery
gate, paying tribute to his loyalty and steadfastness. Still loyal
and predictable in demeanor, Skyes are gentle and tuned into their owners,
but reserved with others. They often loathe being touched by strangers,
especially without a proper introduction, and their terrier nature may
make them answer a casual pat with a bite. Pluses for the breed are
its longevity and contentment with only small amounts of exercise.
The Skye has
a longer, stronger muzzle than the Cairn and larger ears. He carries
his tail low, which is an oddity among terriers. The long coat parts
down the back and hangs, spilling over the ears and face, necessitating
regular brushing.
|
