An adorable white and brown Dandie Dinmont Terrier.
An adorable white and brown Dandie Dinmont Terrier.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

avatarAlanna Mallory, BS, LVT, VTS (SAIM)

Height8 - 11"
Weight18 - 24 lbs
TypeTerrier
Life Expectancy13 - 14 years
Area of OriginGreat Britain

Energy Level

Playfulness

Friendliness to dogs

Friendliness to strangers

exercise requirements

affection level

friendliness to other pets

watchfulness

Grooming Requirements

Vocality

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is an intelligent and energetic companion whose distinctive look has made them one of the most recognizable British dog breeds. They originated along the southern border of Scotland, and are known for their large, hazel eyes, long, low-set bodies, and poufy, helmet-like hair. They were bred to hunt rodents, otters, and badgers, and their double hair coat prevents water from penetrating, allowing for more efficient hunting in water. Like all terriers, they are smart and independent, but they also love companionship. They get along well with dogs and have a special affection for children. However, they can be wary of strangers and will alert the family with a deep, booming bark. The Dandie requires daily exercise, but are not built for extensive walks or hikes. They thrive in both a country or city setting, and are perfectly suited for those in need of a laid-back, but affectionate, little terrier.

Energy Level

Playfulness

Friendliness to dogs

Friendliness to strangers

exercise requirements

affection level

friendliness to other pets

watchfulness

Grooming Requirements

Vocality

Where Are Dandie Dinmont Terriers From?

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier has been traced back to 18th century Scotland and England. They were originally owned by farmers and hunters along the border and were known to hunt rodents and other small mammals. James Davidson, a border farmer and breeder, was known for developing the breed, and is famous amongst terrier enthusiasts for owning the “Immortal Six” terriers, which acted as ancestors of many breed variations today.

Throughout his travels, Sir Walter Scott stumbled upon the breed and is said to have based a Guy Mannering character (known as Dandie Dinmont) on Davidson. From that moment forward, Davidson’s famous dogs were known as Dandie Dinmont Terriers. The breed was also owned by King Louis Philippe in 19th century France, and made their way into famous paintings by Richard Ansdell and Sir Edwin Landseer.

Many believe the breed developed their long backs due to crossbreeding with Dachshunds, but there’s no definitive proof to back this theory. A breed club was formed in their honor in 1867, and they were recognized by the American Kennel Club 19 years later.

Where Are Dandie Dinmont Terriers From?

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier has been traced back to 18th century Scotland and England. They were originally owned by farmers and hunters along the border and were known to hunt rodents and other small mammals. James Davidson, a border farmer and breeder, was known for developing the breed, and is famous amongst terrier enthusiasts for owning the “Immortal Six” terriers, which acted as ancestors of many breed variations today.

Throughout his travels, Sir Walter Scott stumbled upon the breed and is said to have based a Guy Mannering character (known as Dandie Dinmont) on Davidson. From that moment forward, Davidson’s famous dogs were known as Dandie Dinmont Terriers. The breed was also owned by King Louis Philippe in 19th century France, and made their way into famous paintings by Richard Ansdell and Sir Edwin Landseer.

Many believe the breed developed their long backs due to crossbreeding with Dachshunds, but there’s no definitive proof to back this theory. A breed club was formed in their honor in 1867, and they were recognized by the American Kennel Club 19 years later.

Care

What Kind of Diet Does a Dandie Dinmont Terrier Need?

Keeping a Dandie Dinmont Terrier lean and trim is essential to avoid any potential back issues. This means that monitoring caloric intake is essential, as is a high-quality, age and breed-appropriate diet.

Caring for a Dandie Dinmont Terrier

What Kind of Diet Does a Dandie Dinmont Terrier Need?

How Much Grooming Does a Dandie Dinmont Terrier Need?

Are Dandie Dinmont Terriers Healthy Dogs?

How Much Training Does a Dandie Dinmont Terrier Need?

How Much Exercise Does a Dandie Dinmont Terrier Need?

What Kind of Diet Does a Dandie Dinmont Terrier Need?

Keeping a Dandie Dinmont Terrier lean and trim is essential to avoid any potential back issues. This means that monitoring caloric intake is essential, as is a high-quality, age and breed-appropriate diet.

What Are the Physical Characteristics of a Dandie Dinmont Terrier?

The low-set body and athletic build of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is designed for ground-level rodent hunting. Their bodies are long and heads are large with soft, poufy hair. They stand 8 to 11 inches tall and weigh 18 to 24 pounds.

Dandies’ heads are large and muscular. They have expressive, hazel eyes, and wide-set ears that hang low on the skull. They also have long muzzles and large noses that are perfect for hunting.

Yes, despite their diminutive size, Dandie Dinmont Terriers are built for the hunt and surprisingly flexible, boasting sturdy bodies and well-developed chests.

Dandie Dinmont Terriers have relatively long tails for their size, which are thicker at the base and tapered to a point. They carry their tails just above the hind end, and curve them upward like the blade of a sword.

The breed’s forelimbs are short, wide set, and muscular. Their front feet are pointed slightly outward. Dewclaws are commonly removed.

Dandies are typically white with pepper or mustard coloring.

Dandie hindlimbs are slightly longer than those in the front. Thighs are muscular, and hind feet are much smaller than the front feet.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier Facts

1

The Dandie is the only breed named after a fictional character that is recognized by the American Kennel Club.

2

Members of this rare breed were famously adored by Queen Victoria and novelist Agatha Christie.

3

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a "Vulnerable Native Breed," meaning that there are fewer than 300 puppies within the United Kingdom.

Other Breeds to Explore

Cesky Terrier - Choosing a Cesky Terrier
Choosing a Sealyham Terrier
Choosing a Cairn Terrier

References

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