Bred originally to hunt badgers and otters, Dandie Dinmont Terriers are classic terriers with a hunting instinct. However, they have a calm temperament and proud demeanor. These small, tenacious dogs have moderate exercise needs and adapt well to both country living and city life. If you are thinking about bringing home a Dandie Dinmont Terrier puppy, the following dog breed information on the DDT will help you decide if this dog would be a good fit for your family and lifestyle.
In terms of size, Dandie Dinmont Terriers are small dogs, standing 8-11 inches tall and weighing 18-24 pounds. This a relatively long-lived breed. A Dandie Dinmont Terrier will live for 12-15 years on average.
Personality wise, Dandie Dinmont Terriers are quite playful and very affectionate and loving towards family members. They do reasonably well with young kids and get along well other dogs provided they are properly socialized during puppyhood.
Dandie Dinmont Terriers can be very open and friendly with strangers but they still retain a protective instinct and vigilant nature, which makes them very good watchdogs. This is a moderately adaptable breed that can adjust somewhat to changing routines. Apartment dwellers and novice pet parents can consider this breed. Dandie Dinmont Terriers adapt equally well to hot and cold climates.
It is fairly easy to train a Dandie Dinmont Terrier with a reward-based approach. This dog has moderate energy levels and mental stimulation needs. A 30-minute walk around the block twice a day is usually sufficient. Due to the short legs, these dogs are not suitable as companions for runners or bikers.
You need to always keep a Dandie Dinmont Terrier on leash or in a fenced yard when outside, given this breed’s strong prey instinct. Prospective owners should know that Dandie Dinmont Terriers can bark loudly, although they are not excessively vocal.
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier has a medium length double coat that comes in vibrant colors like mustard and pepper. The coat requires stripping twice a year at least and the longer hairs need to be plucked periodically to keep the dog looking neat and well groomed. The coat does not shed much at all, however. Dandie Dinmont Terriers are not heavy droolers.
Like typical terriers, Dandie Dinmont Terriers are fearless, independent, and willful. They have bright eyes, alert expressions, a characteristic poof of hair on the head, and a low-to-the-ground body.
If you think a Dandie Dinmont Terrier would be the ideal pet for your family, get in touch with reputable DDT breeders on Puppy Hero. We have shortlisted the best breeders of Dandie Dinmont Terriers for you, so you can bring home a happy, healthy puppy with peace of mind.
