Skye Terrier - Temperament & Personality
Dog Breeds
Introduction
The Skye Terrier Dog Breed has a personality and temperament that is courageous and protective, and they are naturally reserved towards strangers. This is not a highly energetic breed, but they enjoy a good run. The Skye Terrier often requires obedience training, using positive reinforcement, to prevent "small dog syndrome."
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Personality
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 matter how big or how small – as these little dogs are fearless in the face of danger. They have minds of their own and don't like to be told what to do, but are affectionate and loyal dogs who adore their immediate family and make good companion animals.
Activity Requirements
Skyes can adjust to any living arrangement, be it a small apartment or a sprawling estate. They need to be exercised daily, but a brisk walk around the neighborhood and a couple rounds of ball-chasing meet their daily activity requirement. They do not have the drive or athleticism or endurance to jog or take long hikes, however, so they are well suited for a more indoor-oriented family.
Trainability
Skye Terriers are not for softies who are prone to bend the rules. Training should begin early and should be conducted with excited praise and lots of treats in order to keep him interested. Absolute consistency is a must in order to raise a well behaved Skye Terrier, as they see rule-bending as an open invitation to take over. No matter how frustrating your training sessions, you should never physically correct a Sky, as harsh discipline will cause a Skye to become defensive and they can bite, even if all your are doing is pushing his bottom down into a “sit” position.
Behavioral Traits
Skyes have an independent streak, but they are also fairly needy and don't like to be left alone for long periods of time. If your Skye is feeling ignored or abandoned, he will inform you by chewing, digging, relieving himself indoors or barking excessively. Proper exercise can help stave off these behaviors, but Skye Terriers are best suited for retirees, people with flexible work schedules, or families with a stay at home parent.
Skyes have a strong desire to chase, so they don't do well in homes with cats or other small animals. Outdoors, Skye should be kept on a leash or in a fenced yard at all times, both his safety and the safety of other animals. In the yard, however, your Skye should always be supervised as these dogs like to dig and can make quick work of your flowerbeds.
Skyes can be dog aggressive. They can do just fine living with another dog, as long as they are raised together, but strange dogs can expect to be greeted with a lot of barking and grousing, and they aren't afraid to pick fights with larger dogs.
Appearance & Grooming
History and Health