Dandie Dinmont Terrier

The Dandie is an achondroplastic breed with short legs, slightly turning out feet good for digging and a sturdy, long and curvaceous body. Most uniquely it has a large head covered with a profuse soft and silky topknot of hair and complemented by tassled ears, large, round and soulful eyes and very big teeth.

The breed’s body is covered by a crisp and linty coat, unlike any of the other working Terriers, and it is bred in two colours: pepper or mustard. In each colour the hair of the legs and topknot are of either a silvery blue (in peppers) or a creamy white (in mustards).

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier has existed as a recognised breed type for at least 300 years. First known as ‘pepper and mustard’ Terriers, Dandie Dinmont Terriers were found principally in the Scottish borders, where the breed was commonly owned by gypsies. Like most Terriers, Dandies were used to flush out and kill animals considered pests at the time, in particular badgers and otters.

It was not until the early nineteenth century that Dandies gained greater popularity, as well as the rather whimsical name. The breed shares a common ancestry with the Bedlington Terrier and most probably the Border Terrier, Skye Terrier and Scottish Terrier.

The Dandie has been described as the most placid, easygoing and docile of the Terriers. It is not prone to snappiness or yapping and the breed’s demeanour is one of intelligence and tolerance.

The Dandie is generally friendly to all, old or young, and does not usually initiate conflict with other dogs, though when offended will be a fearless opponent. It is an intelligent and sensitive dog with a big personality and bark for its size.

Dandies like to be part of the family so generally don’t suit kennel life. The breed can be playful and active but also a loving lap dog. When young, like all puppies, they can be very naughty, disobedient and destructive. Having big personalities, Dandies respond best to a combination of strict guidelines and positive rewards.

The Dandie does not moult, which makes it an excellent house dog. However, its coat does require regular brushing and professional grooming. A show Dandie will need its body coat stripped to maintain colour and texture. The leg furnishings and topknot need regular trimming. Pet Dandies can be clipped and it’s important to keep the hair around the eyes and on the top of the nose trimmed to prevent eye irritation.