Greyfriars Bobby; Scotland’s Devoted Skye Terrier & Merrythought’s First Dog Design

The characterful companion was inspired by Eleanor Atkinson’s celebrated novel, ‘Greyfriars Bobby’ – a British classic, published in 1912. This heart-warming true story follows a loyal Skye Terrier who was devoted to his master, a gardener named John Gray. In 1850, together with his wife and son, John arrived in Edinburgh. Unable to find work as a gardener, he avoided the workhouse by joining the Edinburgh Police Force as a night watchman.
Due to the lonely nature of his new occupation, John recruited a partner to accompany him throughout the long winter nights, a little Skye Terrier - his very own ‘watchdog’. John and his new comrade, ‘Bobby’, were frequently spotted plodding through the historic cobbled streets of Edinburgh. The pair swiftly became loyal companions, and a familiar site in the Scottish capital.

Sadly, John’s years spent on the streets left him unwell, and following treatment for tuberculosis, he passed away on the 15 February 1858. Heartbreakingly leaving behind his dutiful friend, John was buried in Greyfriars Churchyard, whereupon Bobby continued to return and sleep upon his master’s grave each day. Dedicated to John, even in the worst weather conditions, Bobby was provided a shelter by the Churchyard’s keeper, who had frequently attempted and failed to evict the fervent terrier.
Touched by Bobby’s devotion, many local residents gathered at Greyfriars Kirkyard to catch a glimpse of ‘the hero of the most charming dog story ever written’. For fourteen years, Bobby persisted in returning to Gray’s final resting place, until his own passing in 1872.

Bobby’s fame spread throughout Edinburgh and beyond, and with so many moved by his unrelenting faithfulness, a beautiful granite fountain was erected in memoriam of Scotland’s much-adored dog. Sculpted by William Brody, a life-like statue of Bobby tops the fountain. Now an important Edinburgh landmark, many tourists rub the figure’s nose for good luck. This special commemoration ensures Bobby will always be remembered, and he now resides just a few feet away from his cherished owner with a headstone that reads “Let his loyalty and devotion be a lesson to us all”.