History and Origins of the Skye Terrier

History and Origins of the Skye Terrier

The History and Origins of the Skye Terrier is really interesting. The history of the Skye Terrier began with the breed originating from the Isle of Skye, which is located off the Scottish mainland  This is one of the oldest types of terriers and the availability of the breed today is rare, and sadly there are growing concerns that one day it will become entirely extinct. The Skye Terrier was originally developed as a hunter of vermin. It protected livestock on farms from preying fox, otter and badger. The Skye Terrier has a well developed sense of smell which enabled it to efficiently hunt out vermin. The dog was also bred with a double coat to help protect it when facing attack whilst out hunting, the outer coat is hard and long so it also helped to protect the dog during cold weather conditions.  The nineteenth century saw this breed rise in popularity due to the fact that Queen Victoria favored the dog and regarded it highly.

History and Origins - How the Skye Terrier got its name

The history and origins of the Skye Terrier continues with how the dog got his name! The dog officially belongs to the Terrier group of dogs and it was developed in the Isle of Skye, therefore, the dog was quite simply given the name 'Skye Terrier'. This breed shows outstanding devotion towards its owners and in actual fact, there is a very interesting story about a Skye Terrier that once belonged to a man known as Constable John Grey. The dog was named Grayfriar's Bobby and after the death of his master, he watched over the grave of Constable John Grey for fourteen years when the dog, too passed over. This remarkable dog story shows the true friendship that can be formed between a man and his dog. The sheer loyalty of this dog was recognized afterwards, when a statue was erected in Edinburgh honoring Grayfriar's Bobby. In 1887 this breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club.

History and Origins of the Skye Terrier