Scottish Terrier

Brushing Routine

Brush 2-3 times per week with a slicker brush on the body and a metal comb through the skirt, leg furnishings, and beard. The Scottie has a hard, wiry outer coat over a soft, dense undercoat. Hand-stripping maintains proper coat texture and color; clipping softens the coat and can lighten the color over time.

Bathing Tips

Bathe every 4-6 weeks using a texturizing shampoo for wire coats. Avoid conditioners on the body coat. Apply a light detangling spray only to the skirt and leg furnishings before combing. The beard and skirt should be thoroughly rinsed as they trap shampoo residue. Towel dry the body; blow dry the furnishings.

Common Issues

• Skirt and furnishing matting from ground contact
• Beard staining and food debris
• Coat color fading from clipping instead of stripping
• Skin allergies and scottie cramp
• Bladder cancer (breed-predisposed, monitor skin lumps)

Extend Your Grooming Results

Wipe the beard and moustache after meals. The skirt picks up dirt and moisture from ground contact, so wipe or rinse the undercarriage after walks in wet conditions. Keep the skirt trimmed to a practical length that clears the ground. Monthly carding removes dead coat between stripping sessions.

Seasonal Care

Scottish Terriers shed minimally when hand-stripped. In Houston's heat, keep the body coat shorter while maintaining the breed's characteristic silhouette. The dark coat absorbs heat, so schedule outdoor activity for early morning or evening. Monitor skin closely in warm months as the breed is predisposed to skin issues.

Maintenance Schedule

Brush 2-3 times weekly. Clean beard daily. Professional groom every 4-6 weeks. Hand-strip every 6-8 weeks. Wipe skirt after wet walks. Monitor skin monthly.