Breed comparison

Scottish Terrier vs Silky Terrier

How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.

5Affection with family5
3Good with young children3
2Good with other dogs3
3Openness to strangers4
4Playfulness4
3Energy level3
3Trainability4
4Mental stimulation needs3
4Adaptability4
5Watchdog / protective5
4Barking4
2Shedding2
3Coat grooming3
2Drooling1

The biggest differences

These two breeds are close on every trait: no score differs by more than one point.

They score the same on affection with family, good with young children, playfulness, energy level, adaptability, watchdog / protective.

Which one should you choose?

Pick the Scottish Terrier if its looks and size suit you better, since the ratings are close. Pick the Silky Terrier if you want a dog that is easier to train, you have other dogs.

Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.

Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.

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