Dandie Dinmont Terrier

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a long-bodied, short-legged Scottish terrier with a distinctive topknot — and the only breed named after a character in a novel.

History

It was worked along the Anglo-Scottish border against otter and badger, and took its name from a farmer in Walter Scott's Guy Mannering, published in 1815, whose dogs were of this type. The novel made the breed fashionable and fixed its name.

Temperament

The breed is known for being dignified, affectionate and quieter than most terriers, with a deep voice for its size and a stubborn streak underneath the calm.

Care and training

Exercise needs are moderate. The crisp double coat needs regular brushing and periodic stripping, and the long back means stairs, jumping and extra weight are worth managing from the start. It is among the rarest native British breeds.

Health

The long back brings a real risk of intervertebral disc disease, and glaucoma occurs in some lines. These are known patterns for the breed and a matter for a breeder and a vet; the measured facts are in the panel.