Skye Terriers originate from the Isle of Skye in Scotland. The breed is very old. Skye Terriers are mentioned for the first time in literature already in the 16th Century. The first Skye Terriers were developed to hunt small predators by local farmers. At that time Skye Terriers were smaller in size, had less coat and were mostly drop eared. In the 19th Century Skye Terriers were adopted by aristocrats. When Queen Victoria acquired her first Skye in 1842, the breed became very popular. Since then Skye Terriers have been mostly pets and companions. The prick eared variety became gradually more popular than the drop eared variety.
Skye Terriers are elegant, stylish and dignified dogs which you can't ignore. Skye Terriers are twice as long as they are high and with their long hair, they are just beautiful. The coat is not so difficult to groom that you might think. Washing in every second or third week and combing the coat is enough. You should never comb the dirty coat because it cuts the hair. The training of grooming and nail trimming is good to start already as a puppy.
Skye Terrier is not the easiest breed. Their characteristic temperament must be understood. Skye Terriers are friendly and happy with those people they know, but they are reserved and cautious with strangers. The confidence, respect and love of a Skye Terrier must be deserved. It is not unusual that a visitor asks: "Why this dog doesn´t come to me? Doesn't he like me?" A Skye Terrier becomes greatly attached to his own family but he easily ignores strangers. Socializing of your puppy from the beginning is very important.
Skye Terriers are heavier and more powerful dogs than they look. Skye Terriers require firm but loving training. Using a force is not an option for Skye's training. Skye Terriers are proud dogs with their own mind. By forcing you break down your relationship with your Skye. Skye Terriers are not the most obedient dogs. This is a fact you have to accept. Many Skye Terriers have their hunting instinct left so they should never be let off leash unless in a safe area. Too many Skye Terriers have been hit by a car.
Skye Terriers are very healthy dogs despite of their unusual structure. Skye Terriers don't usually have any back problems. They are allowed to jump to the couch and walk stairs and live as normal life than any other dogs. Skye Terriers love long walks and any kind of exercise. They are also long-lived. The average age for a Skye Terrier is about 12-13 years.