The Dandie Dinmont Terrier has its genic roots firmly held in Scotland. This short legged long bodied terrier breed is known for its distinctive ‘Topknot’ of hair. They are a tough but friendly little breed that has its history dating back to the 1700’s.
Origin: ~ Scotland.
Bred for: ~ Farm work including hunting Otter and Badger.
Coat: ~ A soft silky touch.
Colour: ~ Bluish Black to a Silver Grey (Pepper) and Reddish brown to Pale Fawn (Mustard).
Hypoallergenic ~ Yes
Height: ~ 8 to 11 inches or
20 to 28cms.
Weight: ~ 18 to 24lbs or 8 to 11kgs.
Lifespan: ~ 11 to 13 years.
AKC Group – Terrier Group.
History of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier
This feisty but friendly little Terrier has been recorded in the 18th Century in Scotland and the borders of England where farmers and gypsies used them for drawing out Otters from their hides and for killing or driving out of holes badgers and foxes.
With previous names such as the Catcleugh, the Hindlee or The Pepper & Mustard Terriers, perhaps the best known of these dogs were the ones owned by James Davidson, who named nearly all of his dogs as Pepper or Mustard followed by some identifying adjective.
Davidson was the son of the Deputy Lieutenant at the Tower of London and was left a fortune which enabled him to buy the Secktor estate near Axminster, Devon in England.
Davidson had friends in high places such as Sir Walter Scott was a historian who wrote about heraldry and archaeology.
James Davidson and his dogs are believed by some to be the models for Sir Walter Scott’s characters of Dandie Dinmont and his dogs appearing in the Guy Mannering publication back in 1814.
After this the dogs generally became known as Dandie Dinmont Terriers.
Temperament and Upkeep of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier
As per their hunting history these dogs can certainly play rough and tumble and yet they are very affectionate with their owners.
They actually make a very good Lap Dog for the young and old alike as they are attentive, playful and also happy to curl up and sleep.
Their coats need a small amount of grooming once or twice a week, this can be made easier by regular visits to the grooming parlour.
General health of these dogs is very good, occasionally glaucoma can play a part in their sight when older but this is often the case with many elderly dogs.
As with all long bodied small dogs they can sometimes develop Intervertebral disk disease, again usually in later life.
Having actually handled a few of these rare bred dogs I can honestly say that they are a pleasure to have around.
Very recently in 2023 I have noticed that this breed is now increasing in numbers and anyone wanting a good strong faithful hound that is sweet by nature should take a good look for registered breeders.
A good place to start in the UK is the Kennel Club.
