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Home > Dogs > Dog Breeds > Dandie Dinmont Terrier Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Care & More!

Dandie Dinmont Terrier Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Care & More!

Dandie Dinmont Terrier standing on grass

A dandy little dog, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a dapper and distinctive breed. With poofy fur atop his head and the tenacity only a terrier could have, the spirited Dandie Dinmont Terrier makes a great pet for seniors, singles, and families alike.

Breed Overview

Height:

8 – 11 inches

Weight:

18 – 24 pounds

Lifespan:

12 – 15 years

Colors:

Grey, white, tan, blonde, black

Suitable for:

Singles, senior, apartment or house dwellers, families with older children

Temperament:

Loyal & loving, independent, intelligent, reserved

A dandy little dog, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a dapper and distinctive breed. With poofy fur atop his head and the tenacity only a terrier could have, the spirited Dandie Dinmont Terrier makes a great pet for seniors, singles, and families alike.

Also called the Mustard, Pepper, Guy Mannering, or Charlie’s Hope Terrier, this lovable and lively dog has loads of personality wrapped up in a petite package. Despite being a relatively rare purebred dog, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is one you’re sure to love! Here’s everything you need to know about taking care of this precious pup.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier Characteristics

Energy:
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High-energy dogs will need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy, while low-energy dogs require minimal physical activity. It’s important when choosing a dog to make sure their energy levels match your lifestyle or vice versa.
Trainability:
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Easy-to-train dogs are more skilled at learning prompts and actions quickly with minimal training. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice.
Health:
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Some dog breeds are prone to certain genetic health problems, and some more than others. This doesn’t mean that every dog will have these issues, but they have an increased risk, so it’s important to understand and prepare for any additional needs they may require.
Lifespan:
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Some breeds, due to their size or their breeds potential genetic health issues, have shorter lifespans than others. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet.
Sociability:
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Some dog breeds are more social than others, both towards humans and other dogs. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. No matter the breed, it’s important to socialize your dog and expose them to lots of different situations.

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Dandie Dinmont Terrier Puppies

Dandie Dinmont Terrier puppy
Image By: Sue Thatcher

Originally developed in the United Kingdom to hunt badgers and other small vermin, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is identified as a vulnerable dog breed by the English Kennel Club (EKC) due to its extremely low numbers. In fact, less than 300 Dandie Dinmont Terrier puppies are registered every year. Because of this breed’s rarity, the price of a Dandie Dinmont Terrier puppy is higher than that of easily accessible breeds.

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier’s personality is loving and affectionate. They’re very clever and obedient, making them great for training. Early socialization is also essential, but be careful having this dog around small animals because they might have the instinct to chase them.


Temperament & Intelligence of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Image By: Vera Zinkova, Shutterstock

Despite his small stature, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is actually fearless and bold. When tested or provoked, this little dog will never back down. He makes a great guard dog and will alert you to strangers or even the neighborhood mailman! If you want a quiet dog, this breed is not for you.

Despite his courageousness, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a loving and loyal pet. He is as smart as a whip and is highly trainable. This breed definitely needs to be taught his place early on and that you’re in charge. While he is a highly independent dog, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier can develop separation anxiety. Never leave this dog alone for long periods of time.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 👪

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is best suited for singles, couples, or families with older children. Though he is a loving canine companion, he can show aggression toward curious toddlers. The Dandie Dinmont Terrier would do best in a relaxed home with teens and adults.

Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets?

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier, especially males, should be the only pet in the household. He can suffer from small-dog syndrome and get aggressive toward other household dogs. Because of his lineage as a small-game hunter, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier may chase cats, rabbits, or other small pets. As such, this breed isn’t recommended for multi-pet homes.

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Things to Know When Owning a Dandie Dinmont Terrier:

Now that you know more about the Dandie Dinmont Terrier’s personality, let’s learn his care needs.

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a small dog with loads of energy. He needs a high-quality diet that caters to his small size and high energy levels. Feed your Dandie Dinmont Terrier about ¾ to 1 ½ cups of dry kibble per day, divided into two meals.

Exercise 🐕

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier needs about an hour or more of physical exercise every day. Sufficient amounts of exercise will wear him out and keep him healthy. Take your Dandie Dinmont Terrier for a long walk or let him romp around in the backyard.

Because of his short legs, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier can have trouble jumping or climbing stairs. These activities could lead to back problems. Limit your dog’s stair-climbing and jumping to avoid potential injuries or ailments.

Training 🎾

Training and socialization should start from the first day you bring your Dandie Dinmont Terrier home. Very clever dogs, this breed is happy to learn basic commands and complex tricks. He may try to position himself as “top dog,” so it’s important to let your Dandie Dinmont Terrier know that you’re in charge. Positive reinforcement training methods work best for the Dandie Dinmont Terrier. Always offer your dog plenty of verbal praise and even a head pat when he does what is asked of him.

Grooming ✂️

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a light shedder. Brush your dog about two to three times each week to remove dead hair. The thick fur that crowns your Dandie Dinmont Terrier’s head should be regularly trimmed to keep it out of his eyes. Trim your dog’s nails as needed and brush his teeth daily

Health and Conditions 🏥

Minor Conditions
  • Allergies
Serious Conditions
  • Cushing’s syndrome
  • Elbow and hip dysplasia
  • Cancer
  • Back problems
  • Eye issues
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Obesity

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier can live to be up to 15 years of age. Despite their long lifespan, this breed is susceptible to certain health problems including cancer, back issues, epilepsy, and Cushing’s syndrome. Regular wellness checks, high-quality food, and plenty of exercise will all ensure your Dandie Dinmont Terrier stays healthy and happy for as long as possible.

Male vs Female

The male Dandie Dinmont Terrier can be more aggressive toward other dogs than the female can. Males also tend to be larger than females.

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3 Little-Known Facts About the Dandie Dinmont Terrier

1. They Have a Literary Name

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is the only dog breed that takes its name from a literary character. The breed was named after a fictional character in Sir Walter Scott’s novel, Guy Mannering.


2. They’re Not Entirely Hypoallergenic

Despite being touted as a hypoallergenic breed, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is not entirely so. No dog is hypoallergenic. The Dandie Dinmont Terrier sheds far less than other dogs and will trigger fewer symptoms in people with pet allergies.


3. He’s the Perfect Apartment Pet

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier only grows to be about eight to 11 inches tall. Because of his compact size, this breed makes a great apartment dog.

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Final Thoughts

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a great little dog for people looking for a unique and lively breed. He would do best being the only pet in the household. If you have small children, do not get a Dandie Dinmont Terrier. Because of their rarity, this breed comes with a heavy price tag. Though it may seem appealing, never buy a low-priced Dandie Dinmont Terrier puppy from a bad breeding facility.

If you’re looking for a sassy, high-energy, and intelligent little dog, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier could be perfect for you!

We have more English Dog Breeds to show you in our guide!


Featured Image Credit: Radomir Rezny, Shutterstock

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