Dandie Dinmont Terrier
This short little terrier was bred in the 17th century to go to ground (hunt) on otters and badgers in and around the countryside of Cheviot and Teviotdale Hills in the border lands of Scotland. And named by Sir Walter Scott after Dandie Dinmont a fictional character in a Sir Walter Scott novel (Guy Mannering ). Sir Walter Scott also gave names to the breeds colors (Pepper and Mustard). Pepper is a bluish black to a light grey with a pale white topknot, and Mustard can range anywhere from reddish brown to fawn with a creamy white topknot. The Dandie Dinmont is also double coated. The Dandie Dinmont is longer than he is tall. Compact durable, and standing on short sturdy legs the average size is 8-11 in. at the shoulder and weighs in between 18-24 lbs. With his large, but well proportioned head and his striking hazel colored eyes the Dandie Dinmont is quite a handsome little dog.
Temperament
Makes a wonderful family pet. Great with well mannered children and babies if brought up with them. Brazen, distinguished, loving, tenacious, and smart. This dog can have some Dominance issues if not raised, and trained properly. On occasion males can be aggressive and females can be nippy, and grumpy. Because it is a hunter it probably should not be trusted with small furry pets like hamsters, rabbits, and the like. When going for walks in the park because of his hunting instinct he should remain on his leash.
Grooming
The Dandie Dinmont requires regular bathing and brushing to keep his coat healthy, and once or twice a year a trip to the local doggie spa to have the dead hair removed…as this breed does not shed.
Health
Possible Issues
The Dandie Dinmont is a fairly healthy breed. Average life span for a healthy dog is 12-15 years.
- Hypothyroidism (older dogs not uncommon)
- Glaucoma
- Epilepsy
- Overweight (overweight/under exercised dogs can have back problems)
