The Skye Terrier, like most breeds of its times is shrouded in mystery. Its origins are said to be from the dogs that came to the area during the Spanish Armada and bred with the local dogs. No one knows for sure. One fact is certain, the Skye Terrier is the oldest of the Scottish Terrier breeds and the ancestor of the five breeds of the Scottish Isles of today. The Skye Terrier, The Scottish Terrier, The Cairn Terrier, The West White Highland Terrier and the Dandie Dinmond Terrier, all come from this 'original' skye terrier. The Original Skye appears to be depicted in art as a small very short hair terrier.
 (old picture of a skye terrier. As they were -drop or prick, you decide.) Its main purpose in those days was to hunt and track otter and badgers. With its alert ears and sharp instincts, the skye was very successful at its job. Its low and small body helped it chase the prey while the coat kept the eyes and skin protected. Its devotion and ability to love however, made it stand out as more than just a hunter. And soon, the skye terrier found its way from the cold barns into the arms of English nobility. The biggest boost the breed got was when, Queen Victoria decided to add the skye terrier to her list of favorites. She is known to have bred both the prick and drop varities in her Royal Kennel.  (Queen Victoria's drop skye terriers. Original Painting by Otto Weber) Needless to say, a true lady was never seen without a little Skye Terrier in her arms. Maybe, it was its adaptation to the climate of the highlands, or its need to protect itself when hunting, either way the breed developed a double layer coat. A thick under coat to keep it warm and a more delicate over coat to distinguish it from others. The hair had been rather short but due to its newly acquired 'royal' status or change in living conditions, the coat grew as did the appeal of its elegance. The Skye Terrier was moved into the show ring and has made history ever since. Today's skye terrier is a sharp alert dog, keeping its keen sense of awareness. This is maybe what makes it such a cautious and protective dog. Its beauty has NO rival. And though many would disagree, unless one has seen a skye on the move, it is hard to fathom what true, effortless elegance is. A skye terrier's grace and charm and sense of confidence is yet to meet its match in a fair game. Skyes in the Spotlight |
