Cesky Terrier vs Scottish Terrier: Key Differences in 2025 UK

Many native UK breeds have gained popularity worldwide, and among these, the Scottish Terrier has played a special role in creating another charming breed: the Cesky Terrier. While both share similarities in appearance, this article explores how the Cesky differs from the Scottish Terrier in temperament, appearance, and care.

Cesky Terrier origins and background

The Cesky Terrier was developed in the 1930s in Czechoslovakia by Dr Frantisek Horak, who crossed Scottish Terriers with Sealyham Terriers. His goal was to breed a hardy hunting companion that could also be a loving family pet. After about twenty years of selective breeding, the Cesky Terrier emerged as a distinct breed known for its calm and placid nature. British Kennel Club recognition came in 1990, and while numbers remain small in the UK, the breed’s popularity is growing steadily with more well-bred puppies registered each year.

Scottish Terrier origins and heritage

The Scottish Terrier is a traditional British breed with somewhat mysterious origins. It is thought to be related to the West Highland Terrier and possibly descends from ancient dogs used by Romans known as “terrarii” or “workers of the earth.” Scottish Terriers were also influenced by the Old Scotch Terrier, a foundational breed for many UK terriers. In the 18th century, two terrier varieties—rough-coated Scottish and smooth-coated English terriers—likely contributed to the modern Scottish Terrier's lineage. Affectionately called “Aberdeenies,” they have become beloved family companions.

Appearance comparison: Cesky vs Scottish Terrier

Both breeds are compact and short-legged, though the Cesky Terrier tends to be slightly taller, standing around 29 cm at the withers compared to the Scottish Terrier’s 25 to 28 cm. The Cesky weighs between 6 to 10 kg and features a more elongated body with achondroplastic proportions, giving it a longer-than-tall silhouette.

The Cesky’s coat is silky with a slight wave and comes in shades such as dark grey, grey and tan, grey blue, light brown, silver, and wheaten. The breed’s distinctive features include bushy eyebrows, a thick moustache, and a long beard, with natural drop ears adding to its softer look.

In contrast, the Scottish Terrier has a dense double coat with a harsh top layer and a soft undercoat. Its hair lies close to the body and is often black, wheaten, or brindle. Scottish Terriers have erect ears and prominent facial furnishings, including bushy eyebrows and a moustache, lending them a feistier expression.

Temperament and behaviour differences

The Cesky Terrier is known for its calm, placid, and sometimes aloof nature, forming strong bonds with its owners. They can be wary of strangers but rarely show aggression, preferring to observe from a distance. Because they may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods, they are suited to homes where someone is often present. They are intelligent and need plenty of mental stimulation, along with firm, consistent training that establishes boundaries early.

Scottish Terriers are loyal and highly intelligent but possess a more independent and stubborn streak. They bond closely with their family, especially the primary caregiver, and enjoy being involved in household activities. While friendly, they can be reserved around strangers and are known for their digging behaviour. Scotties require confident handling early to manage their strong personality traits.

Shedding and grooming needs

Both breeds shed moderately throughout the year, with increased shedding in spring and autumn. The Cesky’s silky coat, however, requires regular grooming, including daily brushing, to prevent tangles and maintain its sheen. Grooming is an important bonding activity.

The Scottish Terrier’s dense double coat needs hand-stripping or clipping several times a year to maintain its harsh texture and health. Regular brushing helps reduce loose hairs, but owners need to be prepared for more intensive grooming to keep the coat in top condition.

Training and exercise requirements

The Cesky Terrier is eager to please and relatively easy to train, but their occasional stubbornness demands a firm, yet gentle approach with consistent rules. They benefit from shorter, fun training sessions that also provide mental challenges to satisfy their intelligence.

Similarly, Scottish Terriers respond well to early training but can quickly learn unwanted behaviours if not guided carefully. They thrive on a mix of physical exercise and mental stimulation, needing around 60 minutes of exercise daily, preferably with safe off-lead time in secure areas. Both breeds are energetic and need structured outlets for their natural instincts like digging and chasing small animals.

Interaction with children and other pets

The Cesky Terrier generally adapts well to family life, including households with children of all ages and other pets, especially cats, when introduced properly. However, due to their high prey drive, they should not be trusted unsupervised with small animals unfamiliar to them.

Scottish Terriers are considered reliable with older children rather than toddlers, and their territorial instincts mean caution is advised when encountering unfamiliar dogs. They typically coexist peacefully with family cats but may chase smaller pets due to prey instincts.

Health concerns and lifespan

There is still limited data on specific health issues for the Cesky Terrier due to its rarity, but some inherited concerns include Scottie Cramp, eye disorders with available screening tests, back and joint problems, and obesity. The average lifespan is between 9 and 15 years with proper care.

Scottish Terriers face a broader range of hereditary health issues documented in veterinary studies: cancer, von Willebrand disease (a serious blood clotting disorder), craniomandibular osteopathy (Scottie Jaw), patellar luxation, cerebellar abiotrophy, cataracts, glaucoma, and Scottie Cramp. They typically live between 13 and 14 years. Prospective owners should seek puppies from reputable breeders who conduct genetic screening to reduce risks.

Responsible ownership and ethical breeding

When considering either breed, it is vital to source puppies from reputable breeders who prioritise health and temperament through responsible breeding practices. Such breeders perform health screening tests, socialise puppies early, and provide clear guidance to new owners on the needs and challenges of these spirited terriers.

Cesky Terrier training tips for UK owners

Training Cesky Terriers requires patience and consistency. Use firm, positive reinforcement and short, engaging sessions to keep their attention. Satisfying their prey drive with safe digging areas or toys helps manage natural instincts. Mental stimulation through games will prevent boredom and behavioural problems. Early socialisation is essential to reduce wariness of strangers and separation anxiety. Regular grooming should be introduced as a bonding activity that gets them used to handling.

Scottish Terrier health care notes for 2025 UK

Scottish Terriers in the UK should receive regular vet check-ups focusing on hereditary conditions known in the breed. Genetic testing for von Willebrand disease and craniomandibular osteopathy is advised. Owners should monitor for early signs of neurological disorders like Scottie Cramp and consult their vet promptly. Maintaining ideal body weight and exercise routines supports joint health. Due to a flattened pelvic structure, female Scotties may face birthing difficulties and require veterinary oversight during pregnancy and birth.

With diligent care, both Cesky and Scottish Terriers can thrive well into their teens, bringing loyal companionship to their families.

Conclusion: Choosing between a Cesky and Scottish Terrier

Both terrier breeds share a heritage and compact size but differ in coat texture, ear shape, temperament, and health concerns. The Cesky Terrier offers a slightly taller, silky-coated, quieter companion suited to families wanting a gentler terrier with less intensive grooming. The Scottish Terrier is a classic, sturdy dog with a harsh coat and a more independent, bold personality that requires confident handling and firm training.

Prospective owners should assess lifestyle, grooming commitment, and training experience when choosing between these breeds. Responsible breeding and early socialisation are key to raising happy, well-rounded dogs. With patience and understanding, either breed can make a loving and devoted family member.