Scottish Terrier vs Border Terrier
Compare Scottish Terrier and Border Terrier side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
Scottish Terrier
Border Terrier
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
25 – 28 cm
28 – 40 cm
Weight
8 – 11 kg
5 – 7 kg
Life expectancy
13 – 14 years
12 – 14 years
Child friendly
4/5
3/5
Energy level
3/5
3/5
Intelligence
5/5
4/5
Trainability
2/5
4/5
Health
2/5
4/5
Grooming needs
4/5
2/5
Shedding
2/5
3/5
Barking level
4/5
3/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
3/5
Characteristics
Scottish Terrier
Great with kids
Super smart
Stubborn
Small
Border Terrier
Super smart
Low grooming
Easy to train
Tiny
Summary
About Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers are small, sturdy, low‑slung dogs originally bred in Scotland to hunt vermin. Recognizable by their long head, prick ears, and wiry double coat, they are loyal, independent, and reserved with strangers. They need regular grooming, moderate exercise, and patient, positive training.
About Border Terrier
Small, sturdy terrier originally bred on the England–Scotland border to hunt foxes. Affectionate, bonded to family, yet independent with strong prey drive. Needs 1–2 hours of daily exercise, secure fencing, and kind training. Wiry, weather-resistant coat needs brushing and occasional hand stripping.
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