If you would like to adopt a small dog with a big dog attitude, then the Dandie Dinmont Terrier might be the best choice for you. In case you are wondering where the breed gets its name from, you should learn about Dandie Dinmont, the funny character of Sir Walter Scott’s novel Guy Mannering, a farmer who owned six wonderful Dandie dogs, and who, in real life, was known as James Davidson, the father of the breed.
Part of the working terrier group, this small breed originates from Scotland, having a history of around three centuries. The existing theories claim it was developed from the cross between the Skye terrier and the Scotch terrier breeds. Initially used for hunting otters and badgers, the Dandie has kept its hunting qualities, although, nowadays, it is commonly used as a house dog.
The Dandie has a long, low body, reaching 8 - 11 inches in height and weighing from 18 to 24 pounds in adulthood. His flexible, strong body is covered by a double coat that comes in two color ranges: pepper or mustard.
The Dandie is a confident, independent and intelligent dog with a tenacious and bold nature. It is also called the Gentleman Terrier, due to its balanced, calm nature, uncommon for a Terrier’s personality. It can be easily trained by applying firm and consistent, but, at the same time, positive reinforcements, as it may become stubborn and sensitive to punishments. Being a small sized breed, it is prone to developing the Small Dog Syndrome. Therefore, owners should do their best to avoid bad behaviors, like stubbornness, snapping or biting.
It is affectionate and protective towards the family and, usually, reserved towards strangers. It is fond of children and can be trained to get along with cats too, especially if raised with from puppyhood. Given its hunting instincts, it should be kept away from smaller animals like rodents.
This breed does not shed, but the dead hair should be removed twice a year and brushed on a regular basis.
The Dandie can live in an apartment too and can adapt even to a colder climate. Curious and agile, lively and brave, it may have the tendency to chase other small animals or to follow scents, therefore extra care is needed. It is an active, energetic dog that requires daily exercise. Otherwise, it may become a little noisy, having a powerful voice.
The Dandie does not suffer of breed-related health problems, but, it may develop canine cancer, glaucoma and also spinal problems, caused by the structure of its body. The average life expectancy is of 11 to 13 years.
Unfortunately, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier has been declared one of the rarest breeds, native to the British Isles and has been put on the list of Vulnerable Native Breeds, which means less than 300 puppies per year.
One thing is sure: once you will look into the soft large eyes of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, you will fall in love with this sweet little fur ball.
