Being a Scottie Mom has its advantages. Think: unlimited snuggles, undivided attention (once the toys have been destroyed and the squirrels chased out of the yard), and someone to look after us just as much as we look after our beloved pup. For first-time Scottie Moms, there can be a bit of a learning curve. Take it from one who had the honor of learning from the mischievous Mr. K. So, for new Scottie Moms or those considering becoming one, here are some things you might expect:
10. Scotties aim to please. Nothing makes Mr. K happier than to see me happy. Conversely, nothing saddens him more than when he thinks he has let his humans down. Go easy on the little one if he or she upsets you and keep your attitude in check. Scotties are sensitive creatures.
9. Your possessions become your Scottie's possessions. No further explanation needed. May I suggest, however, to pay special attention to the clothes in your laundry bin before they start disappearing.
8. Scottie-tude comes with the territory. As much as your Scottie loves you, he or she may not love other dogs and especially not cats. Socialize your pup as appropriate with other dogs...and as for the cats, few Scotties I've known have taken nicely to them so tread carefully.
7. There are no rules. Sure, you might say no dogs are allowed on the couch. You may even stack up the pillows on the couch to prevent them from climbing atop the sofa. Just don't be surprised when you come home to find paw prints on the pillows.
6. Anything within a Scottie's reach (and sometimes even those items that are not) is at risk. Leave a Scottie home alone without Scottie-proofing the house and you'll undoubtedly come home to a few surprises. Topping Mr. K's list are: an organic shampoo bar, a chewed up, nearly unrecognizable blue highlighter and a bag of cookies...and that was just one occasion.
5. Accidents happen. It's important to get your Scottie on a schedule to prevent accidents but sometimes, life happens and it gets thrown off. It may get frustrating, especially if your Scottie is like Mr. K and becomes acquainted with peeing in the house randomly and just minutes after you've walked him because he's "getting even" for being left alone. Lucky for this Scottie Mom, introducing Heather - the alpha (fe)male - was all that was needed to get rid of this nasty habit.
4. Scottie Security is legit. While your Scottie may not like everyone that walks through your front door, take special note of those that he or she does like. Scotties are incredible judges of character so if your Scottie doesn't approve of a date, perhaps it is time to reconsider.
3. Sometimes, Scotties stink. What did you expect? They're dogs! But, in addition to that fact that baths are a necessity in a Scottie's life, know that Scotties are notorious for clearing a room after passing gas. Beware the bottom!
2. Strength isn't measured by size. Scotties are a lot stronger than you might think. I've been told their jaws are the same size as that of a German Shepherd and I know they've got the fight of a big dog inside that tiny little body of theirs. My first weekend with Mr. K, he decided to challenge a Rottweiler. NO fun.
1. Expect the unexpected and enjoy every moment. Life with Scotties is never dull and there's no way to predict what tricks they have up their sleeves next. Whether it is spontaneously waking from a nap to zoomie around the house or stealing a shoe and shaking it until you chase after him or her, Scotties love to have a little fun and get a kick out of entertaining their humans. So sit back, relax and enjoy the Scottie show!
