Known as “the gentleman of the Terrier world,” the DandieDinmont Terrier has the distinction for being the only breed of dog to be named for a fictional character. (Ironically DandieDinmont, the dog's namesake is not a gentleman at all, but a jolly farmer in a 19th century novel by Scottish author Sir Walter Scott.)
This well-mannered and confident breed is very rare and weighs about as much as a one-year-old child.
Originally from Border of Scotland and England, this small-sized and medium-energy breed can grow to between 18-24 pounds and lives an average of 12-15 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Terrier group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Hunting |
| Origin | Border of scotland and england |
| Breed group | Terrier |
| Average lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Size | Small |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 143 |
| Family | Terrier |
| Date of origin | 1700s |
| Original function | Notter and badger hunting |
| Today's function | Earthdog trials |
| Average size of male | Height: 8-11 Weight: 18-24 |
| Average size of female | Height: 8-11 Weight: 18-24 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | Medium energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Moderately playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Shy |
| Ease of training | Easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Not very protective |
| Grooming needs | Moderate maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A DANDIE DINMONT TERRIER'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
DandieDinmont Terriers make devoted family dogs and bold, independent explorers out-of-doors. This breed is smart, dignified, and confident.
DandieDinmont Terriers do best in single-dog households and play best with supervised children. They're somewhat affectionate toward their chosen people and can get along with other pets given proper socialization. They're often shy with strangers.
WHAT IS DANDIE DINMONT TERRIER BEHAVIOR LIKE?
This is a somewhat active breed that needs regular exercise, so plan for daily walks or vigorous games. They make for calm, polite housedogs.
They are very alert and vigilant, but not especially protective. DandieDinmont Terriers are somewhat prone to barking.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A DANDIE DINMONT TERRIER?
These dogs are trainable, but they're also smart and strong-willed. They may be prone to small dog syndrome if left to their own devices. Be patient and consistent while training your pup. DandieDinmont Terriers respond well to food, play, and praise rewards. Terriers like the DandieDinmont are also prone to digging, so you'll want to keep this dog away from any yard spaces you don't want re-landscaped.
Their strong prey drive makes DandieDinmont Terriers poor candidates for off-leash play outside a well-fenced area.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO DANDIE DINMONT TERRIERS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
The short-to-medium-length single coat of a DandieDinmont Terrier is a mixture of hard and soft hair, with a silken topknot on their heads.
DandieDinmont Terriers don't shed much, but they do need frequent brushing. You'll probably want to schedule professional grooming once every six months or so.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO DANDIE DINMONT TERRIERS HAVE?
DandieDinmont Terriers are usually healthy dogs. Some have been known to develop back problems, eye problems, hypothyroidism, and epilepsy.
