Caledonian Canines

From the rugged Highlands to the city streets, Scotland's native dogs are as distinctive and spirited as the land they come from

- by DANIELLA THEIS

DOGS are beloved companions for many of us across the globe, but Scotland in particular has a history and heritage that is distinctly intertwined with our four-legged friends.

Not only is it where the golden retriever, one of the world's most popular dog breeds, originated, but many of Scotland's breeds are a big part of popular culture.

A rough collie was the star of American TV show Lassie, the white-haired West Highland terrier has long been the face of dog-food brand Cesar, and the Scottish terrier, or Scottie, is one of the most beloved and longstanding tokens in Monopoly. Border collies in particular continue to play a vital part of many farmers' operations.

These dogs are part of 14 distinct Scottish breeds that remain today, alongside others that are less well known and – rather worryingly – endangered. Instagram as The Highland Hutter, explains. “The Skye terrier, the Dandie Dinmont, the Scottish deerhound, the smooth collie, the Gordon setter and the bearded collie are on the vulnerable list.”

Even the Scottie, despite its place in popular culture, is currently on the “at watch” list.

“It means that there are less than 450 registrations a year,” Peter adds. “Those dogs, the Scotties, they were in the White House, they won Crufts and Westminster, they’re on the Monopoly board, and they’re in every tourist hat shop.

“They maybe do more for tourism than Nessie, and they’re endangered now. It’s just mad.”

Through a new book, aptly named Tails Of Scotland, Peter hopes to spotlight all of Scotland’s native breeds to showcase their role in our history and heritage and for people to become more aware of those lesser known.