Dandie Dinmont Terrier
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier has a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.
Origin
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier was first documented in 1700 when the breed was used extensively to hunt otter and badger. The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is believed to have descended from rough terriers native to the Cheviot Hills between Scotland and England. These terriers may have included the Scottish Terrier and Skye Terrier, among others.
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier takes their name from a character in a novel written by Sir Walter Scott. The writer was traveling through the Teviotdale Hills when he met James Davidson, a local farmer with two small terriers named Mustard and Pepper. Scott went on to create a character in one his novels – named Dandie Dinmont – who is thought to be based on Davidson. In the novel, Dandie Dinmont had a small pack of six terriers that included Auld Pepper, Auld Mustard, Young Pepper, Young Mustard, Little Pepper and Little Mustard. Once the novel was published, Davidson’s terriers adopted the name Dandie Dinmont’s Terrier, which eventually became Dandie Dinmont Terrier.
Size
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier weighs 18 to 24 pounds and measures 8 to 11 inches.
Grooming Needs
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier has a double coat consisting of a soft undercoat and harsh topcoat and is distinguished by a soft, silky topknot. The Dandie Dinmont Terrier sheds very lightly, but still needs to be brushed a few times a week as well as hand stripped twice a year. They should only be bathed when especially dirty.
Like all dogs, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier also needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.
Character
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is noble and fearless.
Temperament
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier has the boldness of a much larger dog and is quick to protect their family. The Dandie Dinmont Terrier has a booming bark and will use it to alert their family of any potential danger. While generally calm and dignified, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier will not back down from a fight if challenged.
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a natural watchdog and, as such, tends to be wary of new people. When it comes to their family though, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is affectionate and lively. They love their family and are highly devoted to them. Dandie Dinmont Terriers get along especially well with children. They are very patient with children while also making resilient playmates.
Training Needs
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier has the typical terrier stubborn streak, but generally learns quickly. The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is sensitive and responds best to a firm, but gentle leader and lots of positive reinforcement. Once they understand the basics, Dandie Dinmont Terriers can go on to participate in conformation, agility, tracking and earthdog trials.
Activity Level
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is quite athletic and likes running around the yard and going for brisk walks. The Dandie Dinmont Terrier should have a daily walk as well as plenty of time outside in a secure are for romping and playing.
