You owe it to yourself and whatever breed of dog you choose to make sure it's a good match between your household and the dog's temperament. If your lifestyle is quiet, it would be a bad match to pick an active dog, and vice versa. Whichever breed you decide on, take your time making your decision. You're making a long-term commitment, and you owe it to yourself and the dog to make sure it's right for both of you. If you choose a purebred dog, be sure you work with a knowledgeable 'hobby breeder' to obtain your dog. There are people who breed their dogs to make a buck. Avoid them. The person you want to work with is someone who has a firm commitment to improving their chosen breed with every litter they put on the ground. They're a great resource for an owner.

That being said, let's get down to brass tacks. What qualities make a household right for a Skye?

• Time - Skyes are happiest as family dogs. The don't do well when relegated to the backyard or a kennel. Skyes take time to:
  • train
  • groom
    
  • provide daily exercise
    
  • properly socialize
    
• Patience - Skyes (terriers in general, actually) are different from the typical family pet. While they do usually want to please their owner, they tend to be a thinking dog who doesn't blindly follow orders.
• Consistency - Without this quality, you run the risk of confusing your Skye. If one household member allows them on the furniture and another doesn't, for example, you have the makings for a bad situation.
• Sense of humor - Getting angry with your Skye does no one any good.
• Fenced yard - They get up a pretty good head of steam if they see something outside their property they think needs to be chased. A sturdy fence also protects your Skye from wandering neighbor's dogs and potentially harmful wildlife. This is something an 'electronic pet containment' system cannot do.
• Money - Beside your initial investment of a Skye's purchase price, they require good food and veterinary care. Plus, there's always a new treat or toy that you're just positive your beloved Skye can't do without.

Please visit the Skye Terrier Club of America's website for breeder referral information. That's your best bet for finding a reputable source for a Skye. It's not easy to find a Skye, much less one that's well-suited to you. Be prepared to wait for your perfect Skye, and to work with a breeder who may be across the country from you.