For centuries, Dandie Dinmont Terriers were bred to hunt otters and badgers in the woods. Aristocratic and dignified, they've earned the moniker "gentleman of the terrier family" for their demeanour and poise in the face of danger.
Their modest stature and moderate exercise requirements make the Dandie Dinmont Terrier ideal for city and country homes. These dogs are both independent and affectionate, yet they don't require a lot of time or attention from their owners. Then again, they don't enjoy being left alone for long periods of time. Tenfold the devotion will be returned to you if you can offer this dog a lot of love and attention. The following is a comprehensive list of features unique to the Dandie Dinmont Terrier!
Highlights
- You should be aware of the dangers of overfeeding your Dandie Dinmont Terrier. To maintain his health, keep a close eye on his diet and make sure he gets plenty of activity.
- In terms of housetraining, Dandie Dinmont are independent and can be stubborn. Crate training is highly advised.
- Dandies are good watchdogs since they are shy around strangers. Despite their loud and powerful bark, they may be taught to be silent on command because of their reserved nature.
- They are prone to chasing rabbits, birds, and even other dogs and cats because they are terriers. Keep your Dandie on a leash whenever you're not in a safe location.
- Dog thieves may target them because of their odd appearance and diminutive stature. When you can't keep an eye on your Dandies, it's best to keep them inside.
- Dinmonts of the Dandie variety are a very elusive and specialised subspecies. To find a reliable breeder, you may need to search for several months before a litter is born, and even then, you may have to wait for several months.
- Despite the fact that Dandies are not known for their aggression, they will not back down from a fight with another dog, regardless of their size. Until you're satisfied that Dandie and the other dog are comfortable with one another, keep an eye on him.
- A healthy dog should never be purchased from an unreliable breeder or puppy mill. If you want to be certain that your puppy will be free of hereditary illnesses and have a healthy temperament, look for a reputable breeder who conducts genetic testing on her breeding dogs.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
It's a common misconception that a little dog is better suited to living in a limited space. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to live in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. Your dog's personal space in your apartment can be improved by purchasing one of these fantastic dog cages.
Sensitivity Level
Depending on the dog, a strong rebuke can be taken in stride by some, while others regard even the tiniest hint of disapproval as a personal attack. If you have a loud or pushy owner, a chaotic home, or a routine that is unpredictable or variable, your low-sensitivity dog, often known as "easy-going," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," will be able to handle it better. Do you have young children, host a lot of parties, or have a hectic lifestyle? Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.
Intensity
You can't tell from looking at them whether or not they're hyperactive, but when they do anything, they do it vigorously. They tug at their leashes (unless you teach them not to), they push their way through barriers, and they down their meals in huge, gobbling gulps. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. On the other side, a dog with poor vitality adopts a more reserved demeanor.
Potential for Playfulness
The playful nature of certain dogs never fades away, and they're always ready for a game, whereas the reserved and serious tendencies of other dogs develop through time. Think about how many times a day you want to play fetch or tag with your dog, and whether or not you have children or other dogs who can act as substitutes.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
In the same way as working dogs, such as those that herd sheep, are bred for intelligence and decision-making, working dogs like those who run all day need to exercise their bodies. The two most common activities that a bored pet engages in are digging and chewing, both of which require mental stimulation. There are several ways to keep a dog's brain active, including obedience training, interactive dog toys like tug of war, and dog sports like agility and search and rescue.
Energy Level
Energy-draining dogs are always on the lookout for a new activity. There are several jobs that require a lot of stamina from dogs, such as herding livestock or recovering prey for hunters. Children are more likely to engage in activities such as jumping, playing and exploring new sights and smells as a result of this change in their environment
A low-energy dog is more like a couch potato than a dog that needs a lot of exercise. Think about your level of physical activity and whether or not you find a hyperactive dog irritating before making your final choice.
Easy To Train
Easy to train dogs can more easily form associations between a cue (like "sit"), an action (like sitting), and a reward than dogs that are more difficult to train. Dogs that require more time, patience, and repetition are more difficult to train.
Getting your dog interested in training will require incentives and games because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" mentality when it comes to learning new things.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Since puppyhood, some breeds remain aloof and independent; others form deep bonds with one individual but are uninterested in the rest of the family; still other types shower their entire family with affection. Canines raised in homes with people tend to be more open to human interaction and develop stronger ties, regardless of their breed or upbringing.
Kid-Friendly
Kids-friendly dogs are calm, strong enough to bear the hefty hugs and pets kids can dish out, and have an unfazed attitude about rushing, scream-inducing children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Both Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are regarded as family dogs (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, which are small, sensitive, and potentially sharp, are not always family-friendly.
Dog Friendly
Dog friendship and human friendship are two entirely different things. The fact that a dog is friendly with humans doesn't mean it's immune to aggression or aggression from other dogs; some canines choose to play rather than fight; others will just run away. The type of animal isn't the only consideration. Dogs who have spent a lot of time playing with their littermates and their mother at the age of six to eight weeks are more likely to be socially competent.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the home. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely among breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can use a deshedding tool to keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
While greeting you, some dogs may cover their arms with ropes of drool and create large, wet patches on your clothing. If you don't mind a little drool, go for it; but if you're a stickler for cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, trimming, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance. If you don't have the time or money to take care of a dog that requires a lot of grooming, you may want to look into hiring a professional.
Exercise Needs
Evening walks around the neighbourhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.
They can gain weight and release their pent-up energy in ways you don't like, including barking, chewing, and digging, if not given enough exercise. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, should consider getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
18 to 24 pounds
Lifespan
12 to 15 years
Height
8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder
History
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a strikingly different looking terrier, although its ancestry is as firmly rooted in the breed as can be found. This breed of terrier first appeared as a unique subspecies on the borderlands of Scotland and England during the eighteenth century. Farmers and gypsies in the area kept them because they were good at attracting and killing otters, badgers, and foxes. Catcleugh, Hindlee, or Pepper and Mustard terriers were once common names for these dogs.
Davidson's dogs, most famously known as Pepper and Mustard, were owned by James Davidson, who gave their names to nearly all of his pets in this manner. Sir Walter Scott's Dandie Dinmont and his dogs in Guy Mannering, published in 1814, was based on Davidson and his dogs, according to some. Dandie Dinmont's Terriers was the name given to the dogs. James Davidson claimed in a letter that his dogs Tarr and Pepper were the ancestors of all Dandies.
In the past, the breed was included with the other short-legged terriers that are now considered separate breeds, the Scotch Terriers. In 1873, the Dandie was recognised as a distinct breed. Because of this, the Dandie Dinmont is one of the less well-known terrier breeds. "A Dandie stares at you as though he's forgotten more than you ever know," according to an old Scottish adage.
Personality and Temperament
Dancing, sociable, and loyal describe the Dandie Dinmont terrier breed. This dog is not a pack animal by nature, yet he may fit in well as a member of a family. The Dandie is a vigilant watchdog that, despite its quiet demeanour, barks a lot.
The Dandie Dinmont terrier, despite its affectionate nature, may be stubborn and requires an experienced and patient trainer. This breed, on the other hand, is not in the least bit snarky, making it an ideal playmate for children. This dog is also a lot calmer than most terriers.
Rather than being a refined breed, the Dandie Dinmont is a rough and tumble hunter's dog. However, it is a well-behaved house pet that is affectionate but not overbearing. It's a faithful friend for all ages, but daily exercise is required to keep it happy and content. It has a high level of intelligence and independence. It is wary of strangers and hostile toward canines it hasn't met before. A little bit of a search.
Care
The Dandie Dinmont is a simple dog to take care of when it comes to exercise because of its tiny size and quiet disposition. However, they may want special care and training to keep their coats in good condition.
Health
Like any other breed, Health Dandies are susceptible to a variety of health issues. If you're thinking about getting a Dandie, it's crucial to know about the diseases they are susceptible to.
In order to get a puppy, look for a breeder who can provide you with the health certificates for your dog and his or her parents. There are health clearances issued to dogs that show they have undergone testing and have been found to be free of a specific condition.
Glaucoma
An increase in eyeball pressure known as glaucoma can occur in some Dandie Dinmont Terrier lineages. Eye redness and squinting are all signs of glaucoma, as are tears, rubbing, or tearing. It is imperative that you seek quick veterinary attention if you observe any of these symptoms, as therapy is most effective when initiated within a few hours.
Cheyletiella yasguri mites
It indicates that Dandie Dinmont Terrier puppies and adults are more likely to be infested with mites than other breeds of dogs. Small white Cheyletiella mites (walking dandruff), itching, redness of the skin, and small swelling patches are some of the symptoms of these mites. Treatments for mites might be prescribed by your veterinarian.
Spinal problems
A Dandie's long back makes it vulnerable to injury. When picking him up, be sure to support his back and avoid letting him leap on or off of anything that is too high for him to reach. Instead, install pet stairways leading up to the couch or bed..
Epilepsy
Epilepsy has been linked to a number of Dandies. Consult your veterinarian about possible treatments if your dog is prone to seizures.
Recommended Health Tests
- Blood Test
- Liver Ultrasound
- X-Rays
- Eye Examination
- Physical Examination
Nutrition
Depending on your dog's age, activity level, and size, it may require a different amount of food. Two meals a day of high-quality, high-protein food are recommended for most Dandie Dinmonts.
An array of health issues, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, can result from overfeeding your dog. Consult your veterinarian to come up with a customized diet for your dog that will keep it lean and healthy.
Grooming
Even though Dandies are working dogs, their coats need to be groomed on a regular basis. You can expect to trim their coats with scissors every four to six weeks in order to keep their particular shape and appearance.
With a soft brush, brush Dandie Dinmonts every day or two in order to remove any tangles from their hair. Despite the fact that this terrier's coat requires more attention than those of other terrier breeds, its low shedding makes them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers because it reduces the amount of time spent vacuuming.
Brushing your dog's teeth twice or three times a week is essential to preventing gum disease and foul breath from developing (but every day is preferred).
Exercise
Dogs like Dandie Dinmonts need only a little to moderate amount of exercise. They are equally at home in a studio or a mansion, even if the latter has a yard. To keep your Dandie Dinmont fit, schedule a couple daily walks or play sessions lasting 20 to 30 minutes each.
These dogs should never be left loose in an area that is not fenced in. When given the chance, they're likely to pursue birds, squirrels, and other small creatures, such as rabbits and squirrels.
Training
It takes time and persistence to train a Dandie Dinmont, just like any other terrier. It's easy for these dogs to get bored since they're so smart. Playtime and challenges for your dog can keep training fun and exciting. Dandie Dinmonts, like other terriers, have a tendency to dig, therefore it's important to either teach against this or construct a designated digging area in your yard.
They are bright but low-energy terriers who are adaptable to their environments. During obedience training, be prepared to get your hands dirty and to find holes in your property. They may be the "gentlemen" of the bunch, but Dandie Dinmont Terriers have terrier instincts.
Children and Other Pets
Generally, dandies get along well with children and other pets if they were raised with them or were exposed to them in puppyhood. Children of a mature age may be preferable for an adult Dandie who is not used to being around young people.
Always teach youngsters how to approach and touch dogs, and supervise any interactions between dogs and small children to avoid any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. Make it clear to your youngster that approaching or attempting to grab food from a dog while he or she is eating is never a good idea. A dog should never be left alone with a child, no matter how old they are.
Puppies
Because Dandie puppies are an uncommon breed, you may have to search for quite a while before you locate one. You'll want to socialise your Dandie Dinmont Terrier from an early age so he can get used to new things.
Breed Similar to Dandie Dinmont Terrier
- Barbet
- Bohemian Shepherd
- American Bulldog
- Australian Shepherd
- Cão da Serra de Aires