Dandie Dinmont Terrier
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier breed is built long and low to the ground.
They are a good-natured pet who has a soft, loving expression, while maintaining their terrier tenacity.
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Physical Characteristics
- Solid head covered with silky topknot
- Coat: Mixture of hard and soft hair, medium length
- Legs short and muscular
- Large head in good proportion with body
- 3- to 4-inch pendant ears
- Dark hazel eyes
- Breed colors are mustard and pepper
- Height: 8-11 inches
- Weight: 18-24 pounds
- Average lifespan: 12-15 years
Temperament
- Affectionate, fun-loving, independent, smart
- Interaction with people: Good with mature children; good companion dog
- Interaction with animals: Males can be aggressive with other male dogs in home; OK with cats with which they've been raised
- Training: Can be stubborn and not keen on obedience but not difficult to train
- Bark: Can be highly vocal
Medical Conditions
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Ophthalmic disorders (including glaucoma and lens luxation)
- Susceptible to cheyletiella mites (generally seen in puppies)
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- OK for apartments
- Needs small yard
- Needs daily walk
Grooming
- Sheds little to no hair
- Needs brushing twice weekly
- May need professional grooming
Other Facts
- Excellent mouse catcher
- Enemy of martens, weasels and skunks
- Has become a highly sought-after companion dog
- Queen Victoria owned a Dandie
Breed History
- First appeared in the 1700s in the border country between England and Scotland
- Possibly developed from the Scotch terrier (now extinct) - not to be confused with today's Scottish terrier or Skye terrier
- Raised by gypsies and used by farmers to kill vermin
- Named after the character "Dandie Dinmont" in Sir Walter Scott’s 1814 novel "Guy Mannering"
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Dandie Dinmont Terrier Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit DDTCA Rescue
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