The Dandie Dinmont Terrier was developed in the 17th century to hunt badgers, foxes, rats, and weasels. It originated in the Border country between scotland and England. These dogs were first known as Mustard and Pepper terriers.
This small terrier is the gentleman of the terrier group, more placid and quiet than most of his cousins. He is relatively calm until the "terrier" is aroused. At this point he becomes all-terrier and will pursue whatever interests him with tenacity.
Easily recognized by his distinctive head with beautiful silky covering, with large, wise intelligent eyes offsetting long body, the Dandie Dinmont is a perfect family companion and watchdog - independant, highly intelligent, determined, persistent, sensitive, affectionate and dignified. He is a miserable kennel dog.
Dandies leave middle age and become senior citizens at seven years of age. At this time it is best to include a geriatric blood panel in your Dandie's annual physical examination. Be sure to include thyroid function in the blood panel as hypothyroidism is a common ailment in older Dandies. Dandies can be expected to reach 12 to 15 years of age. The average size of dandie litter is four puppies.
Coat
The coat is a very important feature of the breed. Double coat with a soft linty undercoat and a harder topcoat, not wiry but giving crisp feel to the hand. The coat should not "shed" down the back, but should lie in pencils caused by the harder hair coming through the softer undercoat. The forelegs have feather about 2 ins long. Upper side of tail covered with wiry hair, underside not so wiry with neat feathering of softer hair. The weatherproof coat is a mixture of coarse and soft hair.
Color
Pepper or mustard. Pepper ranges from dark bluish black to light silvery gray. Profuse silvery white "topknot". Mustard ranges from reddish brown to fawn. Profuse white creamy "topknot", legs and feet of darker shade than head with some white hair on chest.
Photo courtesy of dandie.ch