Dandie Dinmont Terrier

The Dandie Dinmont is a unique dog, quite different from most other terriers.

Size

Weight

Male 18-24 lbs.

Female 18-24 lbs.

Height (at withers)

Male 10 in.

Female 9 in.

Coat

Length

Medium

Texture

Hard coat, soft coat, curly

Color

Pepper, mustard

Care

Exercise

20-40 minutes/day

Energy Level

Average

Longevity

11-13 yrs.

Needs

Moderate

Traits

Barking

Snoring

Drooling

Grooming

Social Needs

Digging

Club Recognition

AKC Class.

Terrier

UKC Class.

Terrier

Prevalence

Rare

The Dandie Dinmont terrier was originally developed for hunting small game. Over the years, it became more of a house pet and show dog.

About

The coat is a mixture of hard and soft hairs that are black to pale gray ("pepper") or red to fawn ("mustard "). The Dandie is short, only eight to 11 inches tall. The ideal weight is between 18 to 24 pounds (eight to 11 kilograms), and the Dandie needs regular exercise to keep a lean appearance. This terrier breed has a long body, with a back line that rise over the loin and is higher in the rear. The head is adorned with long ears and a distinctive "top-knot" on top.

While these are small dogs, content to be on your lap, they can be quite active and playful. The only concern for the Dandie in the house is the stairs, as the dog's short legs make climbing difficult. This concern is especially important to consider for an older dog.

Personality

The Dandie Dinmont terrier is friendly, playful and devoted. Not a pack animal by nature, this dog will usually bond to one person, although he can fit in nicely as a member of a family. The Dandie is an alert watchdog and, while not high strung or noisy, gives a surprisingly loud bark.

Although very loving, the Dandie Dinmont terrier can be somewhat stubborn and needs an assertive and patient trainer. This breed is not at all snappy, however, and makes an excellent companion for children. This dog is also calmer than most other terrier breeds.

What to Expect

This good-natured terrier is a pleasant addition to any home. If kept in a home without a yard, daily walks are necessary to keep the Dandie Dinmont from gaining weight. This dog usually gets along with anyone and enjoys company.

The Dandie does not like to be left alone, so a family that is gone often may want to provide another companion.

Daily brushing is necessary to keep the Dandie looking tidy. Stripping or clipping several times a year is needed to keep the breed's characteristic appearance. Special attention should be given to the "top-knot" to prevent mats and keep hair smooth. This dog sheds very little, however, and is generally a clean dog to keep in the house.

History

Originating on the borders of Scotland in the 1700s, the Dandie Dinmont terrier is the only breed to take its name from a character in literature. The name given to this breed is from a fictional character in the novel Guy Mannering by dog-lover Sir Walter Scott. The Dandie Dinmont terrier may be closely related to the Bedlington terrier, although the dog's ancestry probably includes strains of basset hound, border terrier and Cairn terrier.

The Dandie Dinmont terrier was originally developed for hunting small game and particularly became known for the ability to track otter. Over the years, the Dandie became more of a house pet and show dog, valued for a distinct appearance.