Though the importance of the show ring is beyond measure for any serious breeder or owner/handler, there is more to a dog's life. The importance of socialization and giving something back is a reward of its own. In Europe these opportunities are almost unheard of and thus, not encouraged. 

Nevertheless, our skye terriers have been always very active. From the first minute they come to our home the huge list of admiring friends is over to visit them and bring them treats and play with them. This is something we always were grateful for. It gave them an opportunity of getting used to being around loving people. Luxembourg has a small terrier club facility that also gives dogs a chance to socialize. Training and playing are a big part of it. And all members are not terriers. It is a great way to acquaint a young dog to other breeds. 

And of course, the outdoor shows in Germany have a huge credit star to their name. All vaccinated dogs can visit a show and meet and greet folks and dogs. 
 Ours were luckier as you read in previous pages to be welcome everywhere. They have been making friends from the minute they come to us.

The best reward of being able to use this training and education is what we can do on the American continent with them. The doors that open to them as therapy dogs for adults and kids alike is a blessing. Being able to not only introduce the skye terrier to admirers but also to socialize the dogs in a nurturing and loving manner is something they can profit from.

Skye terriers are the most intelligent of breeds. And yes, ladies and gentlemen, this is not my bias speaking. On the list of all breeds sadly, the wee terrier is ranked at just above average intelligence. FALSE!! The skye is one of the most intelligent breeds around. It should be on the top of the list. WHY? You decide!!

When Lestat was a young boy and pandora a puppy, we house-sat a sheepdog for a couple of hours. The poor dog was not a social being and did not understand boundaries. After his dinner was done, as instructed by the owner, i reached down to pick up his bowl and put it in the dishwasher. Dog went nuts!! He charged at me, and bit my face. Can you imagine my fear and panic.
He let go with gashes and cuts. After being in the ER when i got home, my two skyes were as ever happy to see me and kiss me. But, something told them to be careful.
This is a story that is almost 9 years old. TO THIS DAY, the two give me their paw first and then kiss. They NEVER approach me head on. The little thing they don't know is, it was their kisses that healed the bites and left me scar-less.

Here is another event that might help you understand a skye terrier's intelligence and instinct.
A parent of one of our skye's was the only 'child' and center of attention as you might imagine. One day, as always, mommy and baby went grocery shopping. As mommy was putting away the cart, a man came up to her and asked her if he could take it and save her the trip. Mommy was only too happy. Baby skye was NOT. He jumped out of the back of the SUV and got defensively between the stranger and mommy. Poor Mommy- she had NO clue what had come over her calm and friendly skye. They got home, and when Daddy stepped in to hug them both, baby skye did not let him near Mommy. He got in the middle and placed himself VERY protectively near her stomach.
2 weeks later, they found out they were expecting their first son. Imagine their shock when it dawned on them, their skye terrier had KNOWN ALL ALONG!! If only they had taken a moment to LISTEN!!

We have tons of stories.........

You never have to tell a skye more than once!!  
A more empathetic breed there is none!!
A better loving dog there is none. So, go beyond the ego of the ring and see what other new horizons await. Love life by sharing your skye terrier's kind loving heart!!

Your heart is blessed to be touched by a skye terrier. Share that blessing with others.
You might be surprised by what you learn.