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The Scotchon is a popular breed of companion dog that has a varied history and a great list of traits. They’re cute, fluffy, and not too small or too big, making them the perfect dog for many people.
But what is it about this fluffy bichon frise hybrid that gets people’s attention? Why are Scotchons so great?
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Scotchon (Bichon Frise x Scottish Terrier Mix) History
The Scotchon, or the Scottychon as it is sometimes called, is a hybrid of two breeds, the Bichon Frise and the Scottish Terrier. The result of the breeding has created a very cute and desired dog. The breed was first bred in the United States in around 2009, but its parent breeds have much more extensive histories.
The Scottish Terrier can be traced as far back as 55 B.C. when there was a small hunting dog that the Romans dubbed ‘terrarii.’ This is generally thought to be where all terrier breeds evolved from, and by the 17th century, it had developed into a breed that was well beloved by royalty.
By the 18th century, the Scottish Terrier and English Terrier had emerged. The Scottish Terrier had wiry hair and was recognized as an official breed by the American Kennel Club in 1885.
The Bichon Frise has an expansive history, too. It is uncertain exactly where they originate, but ties link them to the Barbet, or Tenerife Dog. The Bichon Frise gained more attention in the 16th century when it – like the Scottish Terrier – became a beloved pet of royalty in Europe.
It remained popular for years to come and then had a boost in popularity after the First World War. In 1972, it became an American Kennel Club official breed. It is one of the few different types of bichon breeds.
Scotchon Appearance, Coat, Size, and Weight
The Scotchon will usually be around 14 to 20 pounds, and typically between 10 and 17 inches tall. They have inherited dense double-coats that can be black, brown, gray, or cream. Their coats are curly, and sometimes have a combination of colors. Their coats, despite being long, dense, and wiry, are actually hypoallergenic.
Scotchons can be recognized easily. They have very distinct dark noses and eyes, as well as incredibly recognizable floppy ears. Their build is very unique, too, with longer hind legs and wide shoulders with a tail that curls up and over their back.
Much of this is directly inherited from their parent breeds.
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Scotchon Maintenance, Activity, and Space Requirements
Now, let’s take a look at what it takes to keep a Scotchon.
Grooming
Since Scotchons do not shed a lot, it is important for owners to complete frequent grooming tasks. This includes weekly brushing of the coat to remove any knots, tangles, and dirt. Without doing so, Scotchons may begin to develop skin irritations and large unmanageable matts.
Owners also need to ensure that the fur is kept short, partially for appearance but also to assist in reducing the risk of tangles and knots in the coat. Long hair can work on a Scotchon, but will need regular trimming and brushing to keep in order.
Bathing is important, but Scotchons can develop skin irritation, so they should not be bathed too often, and should always be well-groomed prior to bathing. Without doing so, owners may find their Scotchon is impossible to brush after bathing.
In addition to basic grooming, Scotchons require regular flea treatments, as they have been known to react extremely to tics and fleas. They should also have their nails trimmed regularly, and owners should be careful with the products used as Scotchons are prone to allergies.
Required Space and Activity
Scotchons are definitely an active breed, and they will require a daily walk and lots of play. They should receive around 40 minutes of activity each day in order to make their energy levels more manageable. Without sufficient energy release, Scotchons may become destructive and bored.
Despite being quite energetic, Scotchons are fine for apartment living as they’re not too large, and they do not run (due to their build, running is incredibly difficult for them). They love people, so living closely with their families will make them very happy.
Scotchon Temperament and Intelligence
Scotchons are very definitely sociable dogs. They are incredibly friendly and love to play. With a decent amount of energy, they are happy to spend lots of time playing and hanging out with their families. They’re even friendly with other dogs, so long as socializing is done from a young age.
Without adequate socializing, the breed can develop a tendency to yap at other dogs, which is a trait inherited from the Scottish Terrier.
This bichon frise mixed breed is also very intelligent and often easy to train. Scotchons respond very well to positive reinforcement, just like the Bichon Frise. With the right amount of consistency and a firm hand, Scotchons should be able to learn most tricks and skills that owners might try to teach them.
Scotchon Health and Lifespan
Scotchons benefit from the life expectancies of their parent breeds, and can live anywhere between 12 to 15 years with the right care and exercise.
During their lives, Scotchons are prone to developing patellar luxation, Scottie cramp, hip dysplasia, allergies, Von Willebrand’s disease, drug sensitivities, and bladder stones. So long as owners care for their pets well and receive regular veterinary advice, these conditions can often be avoided or treated.
Adult Scotchons will need around one cup of food per day. For adults, the Scotchon diet should be sure to include whole grains to provide energy and essential minerals for teeth and bones, and it is an added benefit if their diet includes glucosamine, as this will help to promote joint mobility. Puppies should have a diet with DHA for eyesight and brain function, omega-3, and probiotic fiber.
Is Scotchon the Right Breed for You?
Scotchons are a great breed of dog for anyone who wants a fun-loving, family-focused dog that they can take to the park or anywhere else. However, they will require a lot of your time, especially when they are puppies. Without the right training, Scotchons run the risk of inheriting the feisty and noisy nature of their parent breed, the Scottish Terrier.
To avoid this, owners will need to do regular training and socializing, and they will need to ensure that their Scotchon is always walked regularly. Failing to do so could result in barking and destructive behavior.
It is also worth noting that Scotchons do sometimes inherit the Bichons Frise’s tendency to develop separation anxiety, and so it can often be hard and unwise to leave the breed on their own for long periods of time, and doing so can result in personality changes within your pet.
So long as you have this time, a Scotchon can make an incredible pet. They are very loyal and affectionate, but they won’t require your constant attention and can be independent when they need to be. They’re great in apartments or in larger homes, and can get on well with other dogs and children.
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