Originally from Aberdeen, Scotland, Scottish terriers are affectionately called “Scotties.” Initially named the Aberdeen terrier, these canines were developed to hunt fox, ferret, rabbit, and other small animals.
These dogs are typically regarded as huge dogs in little bodies. They’re sassy, independent, and a little hyperactive. Their adolescent behavior might be temperamental. Some Scotties only like one person, and they can be aggressive towards other pets and challenging to teach.
Scotties are known for snapping at children, so they may not be suitable for young families. But, if handled with care, the dogs may get along with children.
Unlike certain other dogs, they do not require a lot of care from their owners. They are great home pets for individuals who enjoy their eccentric personalities and can handle them gently yet firmly.
Scottish terriers are natural diggers since they were raised to hunt tiny creatures that reside in subterranean burrows. It is also advisable not to let them run free outside of a controlled location.
The Scottish Terrier may not be the greatest choice for your family if you do not want a dog that wants regular attention. If you are an energetic dog person, then this pup may be the best choice for you. Scottish Terrier pups are pretty pricey. Depending on coat color and pedigree, they can cost between $800 to $2,000. A prize pup from a good breeder might cost over $3500.
You should also consider the cost of caring for your Scottish Terrier. The first year of caring for your adorable Puppy may be significantly more expensive than subsequent years. Your Scottish Terrier has to be fixed or spayed regularly. A single visit to the veterinary doctor, even for a regular exam, may cost anywhere from $30 to $50, depending on the physician.
You may expect to spend roughly $2000 on your Scottish Terrier puppy’s first year, including all of these expenditures. This sum will drop to around $1000 per year with time, with most of the funds going towards food and medical expenses. The Scottish Terrier has an 11-13 year life expectancy, which means the whole life of pet care costs roughly $12,000–14,000.
Let us have a closer look at all the cost breakdowns related to Scottish Terrier.
How Much Does a Scottish Terrier Puppy Cost?
Because of the popularity of the Scottish Terrier breed, expect to pay between $800 and $2000 for a puppy. The price of a Scottish Terrier is determined by the breeder and the lineage of the pups.
The information in the following table pertains to the cost of Scottish Terrier puppies:
| The minimum price of a Scottish Terrier puppy | $800 |
| The maximum price of a Scottish Terrier puppy | $3500 |
| Average Price bracket | $800 to $2000 |
| The average price of a Scottish Terrier puppy | $1400 |
Factors Affecting a Scottish Terrier Puppy’s Price
Coat Color
Scottish Terrier almost comes in mainly three colors: black, wheaten, and brindle. Wheaten and brindle are more unique and expensive than black.
Size
They are 10 inches tall and weigh 18-22 pounds in most cases. An adult Scottish Terrier, with a height of around 10 inches, will cost more than a puppy with a shorter height and weight.
Lineage
Breeders who produce excellent studs or female purebred Scottish Terrier puppies are more likely to demand a higher price than those who do not generate such exceptional animals.
Health assurances
Responsible breeders rigorously examine healthy puppies to ensure they do not inherit genes that cause health problems like eye trouble or hip dysplasia. Purchasing these puppies is more expensive than usual due to the high cost of these puppies.
Where to Buy your Scottish Terrier from?
If you want to obtain a healthy and robust Scottish Terrier, you should look for reliable breeders to achieve so. This dog breeder community is well-known in the Scottish Terrier world for the high quality of their work with the breed.
If you do a search on the Internet for “Scottish Terrier pups for sale,” you will almost certainly come across a significant number of breeders. It is very advised that you stay away from most of them at all costs. They could be small-scale backyard breeders who are just concerned with making a profit.
Adopting a Scottish Terrier from a shelter or rescue group is another option for those interested in the breed. The Scottish Terrier Rescue is a fantastic place to start your search for a lost dog. Check with your local vets or breeders to see if any Scottish rescue Terriers are available for adoption as a last resort.
Keep in mind that the vast majority of these pets are elderly, disabled, or unwell while considering their condition. Despite these challenges, adopted Scottish Terriers will continue to display their undying commitment and dedication to their new families.
Basic Dog Supplies Costs
Before bringing your new Puppy home, check to see that it is healthy and ready to go. Organizing your stuff will allow your Scottish Terrier to move much more rapidly during the first few days of his new home.
Crate
Protect your Scottish Terrier’s sleeping quarters with a wire or plastic enclosure to keep predators out of the house. The training of young ones to use the toilet will also benefit from this method. Depending on the location, the cost might range from $45 to $75.
Your Scottish Terrier may use various toys to wash his teeth and munch on will keep him occupied. Most of these chews and sweets are priced between $50 and $70 a pound.
Outdoor toys
Toys and balls are essential for these canines’ mental and physical well-being. In addition, you’ll need to get several Kong toys. A Kong stuffed with treats might keep your Scottish Terrier entertained for many hours at a time. Scottish Terrier toys are available for purchase at $50 to $75.
Grooming gadgets
Ensure that you groom your Scottish Terrier at least twice a week to maintain him in good condition. The animals’ ears and eyes should be cleaned with pet wipes, and their nails should be clipped and trimmed with grinders (or nail clippers) to keep them looking their best.
Bedding
In addition to his chewing tendencies, the age of your Scottish Terrier influences the type of bedding you should select for him. When dealing with very aggressive chewers, nylon bedding should be used instead of cotton. It is sufficient to have good bedding.
During the day, some Scottish Terrier owners provide their dogs with a padded blanket or a cage pillow to sleep on when they are away from their homes. Depending on the bedding style, the price might range from $40 to $74 for each piece.
Dental gummies
In order to keep plaque and tartar accumulation at bay, both pups and adults must be encouraged to chew on dental gummies and dental treats.
Collars
If you want to keep your pooch comfortable, consider investing in a soft, adjustable fabric collar for him. This is crucial for the training of your Puppy. In addition, each dog must be fitted with an identifying collar. A collar with identifying tags for Scottish Terrier costs around $20.
This graph depicts the estimated price of certain necessary Scottish Terrier supplies:
| Item | Cost |
| Collar-leash set, harness | $20-$50 |
| Food-water bowls | $10-$30 |
| Baby gates to limit your pet’s entry in parts of your house | $40 |
| Treat dispenser toys | $10 |
| Plush bed | From $40 |
| Collapsible crate | $55 |
| Mats for containing food messes | $10 |
| Kong toy | $10 |
| Grooming tools –wipes, brush, comb, dental supplies, shampoo, nail clippers, etc. | $75 |
| Poop bags | $10 |
| Potty pads for indoor training | $10 |
Scottish Terrier Training Costs
Training of Scottish Terriers may be accomplished through a variety of approaches. Practical training options to consider include basic obedience, specialized skills, verbal praise, service dog training, behavioral therapy, and impulse control.
Basic obedience classes are by far the most fundamental sort of dog training available. It is also the most expensive. In accordance with the trainer and location, the cost of training will vary.
Individual training sessions are priced differently depending on the trainer and the location of the training session. The cost of a single one-on-one main training session with a professional might range from $75 to $125 per hour.
Your pet can also engage in a group training program if you want to do so. On the other hand, some Scottish Terriers do badly in groups due to the various distractions.
Basic obedience signals such as come heel and seat should be taught to your Scottish Terrier as soon as possible after they are first learned. It costs between $45 and $75 each day to use the service.
If you work with a qualified dog trainer, you and your canine partner will gain greater confidence in your talents and capabilities.
Even more drastic measures, such as putting canines in canine boot camps, are being investigated as a possible solution. These arrangements can cost as much as $1200 per week for many weeks of boarding, which is a large sum of money in today’s economy.
This table shows the costs associated with training and behavior modification for Scottish Terrier:
| Group training (cost per class) | $15.00 to $50 per class |
| Service dog training costs | More than $10,000 |
| Private training (cost per session) | $45.00 to $120 |
| YouTube videos | $0.00 |
| Board-and-train | $1250.00 |
Cost of Food for Scottish Terrier
Healthy Scottish Terrier puppies require two to three meals every day in order to maintain their overall well-being. Prescribe a diet to the dog that its breeder has prescribed during the first few weeks of its life. Following that, your vet may advise you to provide your pet with the appropriate nutrition.
As your pet gets older, you should reduce the frequency of food. According to the pet’s weight and activity level, the amount of food that should be provided to a Scottish Terrier will vary.
Scottish Terrier is usually 10 inches tall at the withers. So, the following are some general feeding guidelines for Scottish Terrier that you should keep in mind according to their body size:
- Every pound of bodyweight that your Scottish Terrier possesses requires one ounce of canned food. Consider the case of a 20-pound Scottish Terrier who needs 20 ounces of wet food each day on average. This quantity is sufficient for two modest dinners.
- The amount of dry food your young dog will ingest each day will range between 2 and 2.5 cups. Divide this quantity into two/three meals each day, and you’ll be good to go. A pound of dry dog food is equivalent to four wet dog food cups.
- Freeze-dried meals can also be made available to the Scottish Terrier. You soak the nuggets in water for a few minutes before serving them to your dog as food. If you want to keep your 20-pound dog healthy, feed him 40 freeze-dried food nuggets once a day.
- A 20-pound Scottish Terrier should be fed 200g of raw dog food every day.
In the table below, the monthly cost of providing a Scottish Terrier is presented for each month of the year:
| Type of food | Monthly quantity for a 20 lb. Scottish Terrier | Cost per month |
| Dry food/kibble | 20 lb. | $110 |
| Canned food | 40 lb. | $100 |
| Freeze-dried food | 10 lb. | $100-$120 |
| Raw food | 4 lb. | $100 |
Dog Food Comparisons for Scottish Terrier
Health professionals recommend that you give your Scottish Terrier a naturally appropriate diet or prepare special meals for him in order to promote the health of his heart, kidneys, and lungs.
The majority of commercially marketed Scottish Terrier diets are suited for all breeds of Scottish Terrier, including mixed breeds. Keep an eye on your pooch’s body condition score (BCS) at all times. Therefore, whether your Scottish Terrier is underweight or overweight, you may need to adjust its nutritional needs due to this.
The brands of dog food that Scottish Terriers like are shown in the table below:
| Brand name | Features | Cost per pound |
| Royal Canin Scottish Terrier King Charles Puppy Dry Dog Food
| Unique kibble shape for small jaws. It contains antioxidants, and vitamin E. Has taurine, EPA, and DHA for heart health. | $7.13/lb. |
| JustFoodForDogs PantryFresh Dog Food – Fresh, Whole Food Ingredients Ready to Serve Adult Dog & Puppy Food | Free from preservatives and feed-grade ingredients. It contains 100% human-grade ingredients, Made in USDA certified kitchens | $0.32/lb. |
| Purina ONE Grain-Free, Natural Pate Wet Dog Food, SmartBlend True Instinct With Real Turkey & Venison
| Real meat is the first ingredient. Grain-free food | $1.68/lb. |
| Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food | High-quality protein, highly digestible ingredients, made in the USA with all-natural ingredients | $5/lb. |
Medical Costs of Scottish Terrier
Vaccinations are essential for them during their first year of existence to protect Scottish Terrier puppies from infections such as distemper and hepatitis. Depending on your geographic location and the advice of your veterinarian, you may also require additional vaccines against Lyme disease, rattlesnake, and other non-core or optional immunizations.
Keeping your Scottish Terrier’s weight within an acceptable range is essential; otherwise, speak with a veterinarian, as mentioned above. In addition, your Scottish Terrier should be neutered to prevent future problems.
This will protect your pet from a wide range of infections and parasites. Aside from that, it will assist in the prevention of territorial aggressiveness and excessive barking in dogs.
All pets should have their intestinal worms removed regularly. This approach is highly efficient in preventing the growth of pinworm, roundworm, and fluke infections.
When dogs are infected with these parasites, they may experience starvation, vomiting, and diarrhea, as well as other unpleasant symptoms. Once your Scottish Terrier has been acquired, you must begin deworming him as soon as possible (around 3-4 weeks).
In addition to deworming your Scottish Terrier, flea, tick, and mite prevention are also necessary to keep him healthy in the long term.
Following are the costs of immunization for Scottish Terrier puppies and kittens, as well as the appropriate age, ranges for each:
Scottish Terrier Core vaccines
| Core vaccine | Age of Puppy | Cost |
| Distemper | At least three doses are to be given between 6 and 16 weeks of age. (2 doses to be given 3-4 weeks apart) | $15 to $25 |
| Parvovirus | Same as above | |
| Adenovirus, type 1 (CAV-1, canine hepatitis) | The intranasal vaccine may be boosted at one year. Your Scottish Terrier will also need a booster one year after completing the initial series, then again, every three years. | $15-$50 |
| Adenovirus, type 2 (CAV-2, kennel cough) | Between 6 weeks to 16 weeks, at least three doses. | $15-$50 |
| Rabies 1 and 3 years | It can be given as early as three months of age. States have laws about this core vaccine | $35 to $50 |
Non-core vaccine costs
| Non-core vaccine | Age of Puppy | Cost |
| Parainfluenza | Administered at 6-8 weeks of age, then every 3-4 weeks until 12-14 weeks old. Depending on the manufacturer’s recommendation, a booster may be needed after a year and re-vaccination every three years. | $15-$35 |
| Bordetella bronchiseptica (kennel cough) | Two doses of injection or one dose of intranasal vaccine given based on manufacturer recommendation | $15-$50 |
| Lyme disease | Given at nine weeks and repeated after 2-4 weeks | $20-$40 |
| Leptospirosis | Two doses at least 2-4 weeks apart. The first dose is around eight weeks. | $15-$35 |
Other (extra) medical costs for dog owners include the following:
| Name of test | Cost |
| Routine checkup | $50 and $250 |
| Spaying or neutering | $160-$200 |
| Physical exam | $45 – $55 |
| Fecal exam | $25-$55 |
| Heartworm test | $45-$50 |
| Dental cleaning | $70-$400 |
| Allergy testing | $195-$300 |
Emergency costs
| Name of test | Cost** |
| Bloodwork | $80-$100 |
| X-ray | Up to $200 |
| USG | Up to $500 |
| Hospitalization | $600-$3500 |
| Emergency surgery | Up to $2000 |
Common Genetic Diseases in Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier is susceptible to several hereditary illnesses, including the following:
Scotty Cramp
Scotty Cramp is a genetic ailment that affects predominantly Scottish Terriers, although it can also affect the Cesky Terrier. Puppies and young dogs who have been affected show signs of illness after being exercised or excited. It does not appear to be painful, but it does cause stretching of the spine and a rigid gait that lasts for several minutes after the incident occurs.
Although medications may provide some comfort, there is currently no known cure for this condition. According to responsible breeders, Scotties affected by this disease should not be used as breeding animals because it is genetically transmitted.
No one wants to be accountable for something like this passing down to future generations. Medicine costs to treat Scotty Cramp will go up to $2000.
Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing-like disease)
The Cushing-like disease is a genetic malfunction of the adrenal glands that causes them to produce an excessive amount of the steroid hormone cortisol (or testosterone).
Your Scottish Terrier is more susceptible to this problem than other dogs. In most cases, the condition progresses slowly, and the early signs are easily overlooked.
Drinking and urinating in excess of average amounts, as well as an increased appetite and lesser activity level, are all signs of the condition. Later on, a potbelly, epidermis, and hair loss are all signs of the disease.
In most cases, oral medications are used in conjunction with us to ensure that the proper dosage is administered, which costs around $2500.
Bleeding Disorders
In dogs, numerous different forms of hereditary bleeding diseases can arise. The degree of the symptoms ranges from very minor to really severe. It is very uncommon for a pet to appear normal until a catastrophic accident occurs or surgery is performed, at which point substantial bleeding can ensue. Von Willebrand’s disease is a blood clotting ailment that is commonly identified in Scottish Terriers. Surgery to cure this ailment usually costs around $4000.
Reproductive Difficulties
Breeds with a large head and a small pelvis, such as Scotty, are more susceptible to having issues during the delivery process than those with a smaller head and larger pelvis. The size of the female Scottish Terrier pelvis makes it impossible for her to deliver her puppies naturally, and a C-section is frequently necessary to ensure her and her puppies’ well-being. Usually, the C-section will cost up to $3000.
Stones in the Bladder or Kidney
Scotch Terriers are more likely than other breeds to develop stones in their kidneys or bladders, and there are several distinct varieties. If your friend has blood in his urine, is unable to pee, or is straining to urinate, he or she is experiencing a kidney stone. Regular treatment of kidney or bladder stones may cost up to $2500.
Is Pet Insurance a Good Idea for Your Scottish Terrier?
An annual checkup is required for Scottish Terrier. As a result, pet insurance is considered essential needed for the vast majority of Scottish Terrier owners.
Pet insurance may be able to cover a considerable portion of the costs, providing you with an additional piece of mind in the process. For Scottish Terriers that are not too elderly or suffering from any ailments, the correct insurance coverage can cover a wide variety of real-world costs.
It is recommended that pet owners save aside a little money each month to prepare for their Scottish Terrier’s old age in advance of their pet’s death. However, this isn’t always enough to ensure success. It is possible that having proper pet insurance may save you hundreds of dollars if you have an unexpected medical requirement.
Listed below is a list of the finest pet insurance providers in the United States, along with a description of their drawbacks and benefits:
| Name | Pros | Cons | Plans |
| Figo | 100% reimbursement option, short wait periods for accident coverage | No dental coverage | Starting from $20 a month |
| Farmer’s Pet Insurance | Received excellent rating by Better Business Bureau. Has 24 x 7 claims reporting. | Some users have paid higher premium rates | Start at $16/month |
| Embrace Pet Insurance | Short waiting periods for accident coverage, optional wellness plans, 24×7 tele-pet helpline | Hidden fees | Basic coverage starts at $14 a month. |
Additional Costs of Raising your Scottish Terrier
Health and wellness expenses for Scottish Terrier owners may be in addition to feeding, grooming, and medication.
For Scottish Terriers, the following steps will lead to increased costs:
Dog training/exercise
Exercise for 30 minutes twice a day should keep your dog’s mind and body fit. Inactivity can make your Scottish Terrier uneasy and even dangerous. If you can’t walk your Scottish Terrier regularly, hire a dog walker. Depending on where you live, a 30-45 minute walk should cost between $20-$50.
Dog grooming
The gorgeous double-coated Scottish Terrier coat is prone to shedding. So frequent grooming is required. Wash frequently with water. Basic grooming packages cost between $45 and $50 and include nail trimming, washing, and ear cleaning.
Microchipping
This service may cost up to $50, depending on your location.
Travel expenses
A one-way flight with your Scottish Terrier will cost between $125 and $250. You’ll also need an airline-approved crate.
If you can’t bring your Scottish Terrier, boarding or dog sitting are options. A night in a pet hotel costs between $30 and $75.
Conclusions – What Is the Average Cost of a Scottish Terrier?
Scottish Terriers are more costly compared to other small-breed dogs of similar size. When planning a budget for your pet, keep in mind the following:
The initial year’s expenses
The first year of maintaining Scottish Terriers cost roughly $2000. Usually, the breeder decides the price but initial puppy prices vary depending on breed size, coat color, lineage, and health. Vaccines and basic surgical treatments such as spaying or neutering are necessary for food and bedding. Aside from that, you’ll need to feed and praise your dog. As a result, your first year’s fees may exceed $2,000 in some circumstances.
Monthly expenses
A Scottish Terrier’s monthly expenses include veterinary care, food, and flea and tick treatments. You may also hire someone to groom, walk, and train your pets. These procedures should cost between $200 and $500, depending on your budget and lifestyle.
Annual expenses (after the first year)
The ASPCA estimates that a Scottish Terrier will cost between $1000 and $1500 annually after the first year. These charges include dental cleanings, routine medical bills, pet food and treats, grooming, and pet sitting.
A Scottish Terrier lives between 11 and 13 years. Finally, owning a dog of this caliber is estimated to cost between $12000 and $14000 for their whole life.
We hope this Scottish Terrier cost guide helps you make a proper budget for your pup.
