The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a good choice for an apartment or house. They do not need a great deal of exercise and will adapt to most circumstances. They are good with older children, especially if they have been properly socialized. As a reminder, never leave children unsupervised with a puppy or dog. They may not be good with other animals and may not do well with other dogs. They are protective of their human family.
Approximate Adult Size
The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is 8 to 11 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 18 to 24 pounds.
Special Health Considerations
Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is no exception. Be on the lookout for hypothyroidism (sluggish thyroid gland which can result in weight gain), glaucoma and epilepsy. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
Grooming
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier has a coat composed of one third soft hair and two thirds harder hair. She is groomed by brushing regularly and needs to be professionally groomed to pluck out dead hair several times a year.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.
Life Span
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier can live between 12 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
History
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier originates in the border area of Scotland and England. They are believed to be the result of cross breeding the English Terrier, Skye Terrier, Otterhound and Bedlington Terrier. They were used for hunting small game. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1886.
