Skye Terrier
Goals
Skye terriers, being a rare breed, have a different set of standards within our program. We base every breeding decision on preservation.
What are we preserving? Most importantly we are preserving health. Skyward is one of the only Skye terrier breeders in the world that does genetic and orthopedic testing on all our breeding dogs. Genetic Diversity goes hand in hand with health. Recent studies have linked high COI with smaller litters, higher mortality, and higher risk genetic defects.
In order to mitigate the risk of heath issues consider all of these factors when planning litters.
Preserving breed type and proper structure is just as important. A dog’s structure influences their movement, distribution of body weight, muscle mass, and so much more. For a dwarf breed like Skyes, correct structure can prevent the onset of arthritis and IVDD. Every breeding is carefully planned to complement virtues and faults, improving structure over time.
Skye terriers are historically bred to hunt badgers on the isle of Skye. Today, they have transitioned into a companionship role, with many losing their hunting instincts and tenacity. We hope to slowly bring that back watch our dogs excel in nosework, barn hunt, or fcat.
Health Tesing
The health testing we complete on every single dog before breeding is as follows:
Skye Terriers (proof provided):
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OFA Hip (2 years old)
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OFA elbows (2 years old)
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Optimal Selection Panel and/or Embark Panel
Other:
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OFA Patellas (2 years old)
Private Lessons
Skye terriers are a medium to low energy/drive breed. Positive experiences and proper use of motivators are crucial during development. Grooming needs to be started young in order to maintain their grooming requirements. We hope to set our puppy owners up for success, whether this is your first border collie or your fifth. Upon pick up, we will discuss how often you should be grooming yours skye and how you should train cooperative care. We will also advise on age-appropriate exercise and expectations.
Titling
Titling dogs reflects on a breeder's dedication to the goals of their program. While we pursue conformation titles on our Skye's, the ultimate decision to breed depends or temperament and health.
We strive to complete the following titles on every single dog before breeding:
Skye Terriers (proof provided):
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AKC Conformation Championship
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Temperament test
Examples:
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CGC (Canine Good Citizen)
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ATT (AKC Temperament Test)
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FDC (Farm Dog Certification)
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RATI (Barn Hunt instinct Test)
Resources
Coming soon are some helpful checklists and videos to follow as you raise your puppy.
