Greyhound vs Scottish Terrier

Which dog breed is right for you?

Greyhound

Size
60–70 lbs, 27–30 in
Lifespan
10–14 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Gentle Quiet Noble Independent

Scottish Terrier

Size
19–22 lbs, 10–11 in
Lifespan
12 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
No
Good with Pets
No
Independent Confident Spirited Dignified

About the Greyhound

The Greyhound is one of the most ancient breeds — depicted in Egyptian tomb art dating back 5,000 years and prized by nobility throughout history for their unmatched speed and grace. Standing 27–30 inches tall and weighing 60–70 pounds, these aerodynamic athletes can reach speeds of 45 miles per hour, making them the fastest dog breed in the world. Their short, smooth coat comes in virtually every color and pattern, including black, white, fawn, red, blue, brindle, and various combinations.

Temperament & Personality

Greyhounds are gentle, quiet, and surprisingly lazy — the ultimate couch potatoes who happen to be world-class sprinters. They are sweet-natured and sensitive dogs that form deep bonds with their owners and are typically good with older children who respect their space. Many retired racing Greyhounds adapt beautifully to home life, though they may need time to learn household basics like stairs, glass doors, and slippery floors.

Pros

  • Remarkably calm and quiet indoors — content to sleep 18+ hours a day on the couch
  • Low-maintenance coat — virtually no grooming needs and minimal shedding
  • Gentle, non-aggressive temperament — rarely bark and never show hostility toward people
  • Many retired racers are available for adoption — giving these athletes a well-deserved second career

Cons

  • Strong prey drive — cannot be trusted off-leash and may chase small dogs, cats, and wildlife
  • Thin skin and minimal body fat make them susceptible to cuts, cold temperatures, and pressure sores
  • Sensitive to anesthesia and many common medications due to low body fat percentage
  • Prone to osteosarcoma, bloat, and dental disease — especially in retired racing dogs

Give a graceful Greyhound the retirement they deserve — browse adoptable Greyhounds on Puplister.

About the Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier — often called the "Scottie" — is one of Scotland's oldest terrier breeds, developed in the Aberdeen area during the 18th and 19th centuries to hunt foxes, badgers, and rats underground. These compact, powerful dogs stand about 10 inches tall and weigh 18 to 22 pounds, with a low center of gravity and surprisingly heavy bone for their size. Their harsh, wiry outer coat and soft, dense undercoat come in black, wheaten, or brindle, and the breed's distinctive profile — long head, erect ears, and bushy eyebrows — is among the most recognizable in dogdom.

Temperament & Personality

Scottish Terriers are independent, dignified, and fiercely loyal to their people — often described as having an "old soul" quality uncommon in the terrier group. They tend to bond most deeply with one or two people and can be reserved or aloof with strangers, making them natural watchdogs. Scotties can be assertive with other dogs, especially those of the same sex, and their strong prey drive means small animals are rarely safe in their presence.

Pros

  • Compact and sturdy — well-suited for apartment living with regular exercise
  • Low-shedding wiry coat when properly maintained through hand-stripping
  • Loyal, devoted companion with a dignified, independent character
  • Excellent watchdog — alert and naturally suspicious of strangers

Cons

  • Stubbornly independent — training requires patience and creative motivation
  • Prone to von Willebrand's disease (a bleeding disorder), Scottie cramp, and bladder cancer
  • Can be aggressive toward other dogs, especially unfamiliar ones
  • Requires regular professional grooming or hand-stripping every 6 to 8 weeks

The Scottish Terrier's unwavering loyalty and distinctive charm are one of a kind — find your Scottie on Puplister.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Greyhound and a Scottish Terrier?
The Greyhound is 60–70 lbs, 27–30 in sized while the Scottish Terrier is 19–22 lbs, 10–11 in sized. They differ in size (60–70 lbs, 27–30 in vs 19–22 lbs, 10–11 in), lifespan (10–14 years vs 12 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Greyhound or Scottish Terrier?
Greyhound is generally good with kids. Scottish Terrier is not typically good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Greyhound or Scottish Terrier?
The Greyhound has a lifespan of 10–14 years while the Scottish Terrier has a lifespan of 12 years.

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