The Scottie Processional


Watching a Scottie grow ...


Photos courtesy Linda Winkler

For years we have enjoyed reading the posts of an Internet terrier group member on the antics and trials of Geordie,The Scaly Scot. A couple years ago young Flossie arrived on the scene. Geordie's life has not been the same..
The author of these terrier reports, and the constantly bemused housemate of Geordie and Flossie, is Linda Winkler. She writes remarkably well for a being of the two-legged persuasion. Ms. Winkler has graciously allowed Mr. Doodle's Dog to post one of her recent Scottie Chronicles ... her reflections on the passing puppyhood of the tempestuous Flossie.
Enjoy.
--Nigel and Gimlet

I have begun to realize, a bit sadly, that Flossie is now almost an adult. She is 2 ½ years old, about 16 I think in dog years. Still a teenager. But it's at about age 2 ½ that you know what kind of dog you will have in the case of Scots. They are a bit slow to mature I've found. But at around Flossie's age you recognize the adult dog.

At this age Geordie suddenly stopped being naughty and took on a new dignity. At age 5 he became like the Old Man of the Sea; sort of wise and smart but still with his naughty moments. He's always had a twinkle in his eye.

But Flossie is quite different in temperment. She's pretty high strung, much less laid back than Geordie and really has attitude. She bristles and growls and barks and is very very active. In spite of her growly nature she is also very affectionate. Geordie will lie next to me but only Flossie climbs right onto my face and tucks her head under my chin. Or puts both her paws around my neck and gives licks. She likes to be very close with her affection.

I call her my Bipolar Scot; I don't know if this combination is common with Scots; I suspect it is with females. The males seem to be more easy going. She is also a very pretty dog with her nice brindling, cobby body and short compact ears. She has pale grey pantaloons on her hind legs and a few pale hairs on her chin. Her breeder said she had a "milk" chin. She's a series of compact squares.

To have a dog like Flossie requires some experience with terriers I would say; she would not be the best choice for a novice owner. Too complicated and difficult, requiring a firm hand but gentle treatment. Like all Scots she is sensitive and needs careful handling; being too firm with her doesn't work. It hurts her feelings and she will mope.

Geordie loves Flossie and they make a great pair because they are complementary; he only wishes she would stay in her own part of the yard and let him watch birds undisturbed.


A very young Flossie and mentor and housemate Geordie watch for birds at the feeder.

Posted: Wed - July 14, 2004 at 10:45 PM          

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