Dignified and independent, yet affectionate and cuddly, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a sweet and loving family pet.
Renowned for being hardy and friendly a Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a wonderful family pet. They are one of the most placid, docile and gentle Terriers, neither yappy or snappy, and they love to snuggle. Reserve a spot on the couch next to you and you’ll have the happiest pet around. They are unusual looking pets, with a long body low to the ground, big black eyes and a distinctive poof on the top of their heads. They are lively, affectionate and love a back rub. Their family is their world and they make great friends for children, however they do enjoy being in a single-pet household. They have an independent and dignified temperament. Socialise your Dandie Dinmont Terrier and it will be friendly to other cats and dogs.
Fun fact: This dog gained fame after being named in
Sir Walter Scott’s 1814 book Guy Mannering.
They are naturally curious dogs and love exploring the world around them. While smart, they can be difficult to train and like to do things their own way. They have a moderate need for exercise and enjoy a daily stroll but don’t need a vigorous exercise routine. They also love a good play in the park. Their small size means they are great for apartment living, although they have a high tendency to bark so regular training is imperative. Dandie Dinmont Terriers shed little but need to be brushed regularly and should be professionally groomed once to twice a year.
Scheduled six-monthly health checks and visits to the vet are important to ensure your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. It’s important that together with your vet a preventative healthcare program is determined and maintained based on the individual needs of your canine companion. This breed is healthy and sturdy and prone to few problems.
Size
A small-sized breed weighing 8-11kg with an average height of 20-28cm.
Space
Apartment living is great for these dogs.
Energy Levels
They have moderate energy levels. A daily walk and romp in the park is ideal.
Difficulty Of Training
They are intelligent dogs but tend to be independent and stubborn. Consistent training is key.
Family suitability
Great family pets and loyal companions
Suitability to other pets
If socialised from a young age, they will befriend other pets.
Need for company
They have a moderate need for company and enjoy being by their humans side at all times.
Hypoallergenic dog breed?
Yes
Coat and grooming needs
This is a low-to-moderate maintenance breed. Brush weekly and have their coat professionally plucked twice a year. They have a medium coat in pepper or mustard.
Shedding
Sheds little.
Tendency to bark
They have a high tendency to bark.