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Dandie Dinmont

Dandie Dinmont is a small terrier breed from Scotland also known as Dandie Dinmont Terrier, Hindlee Terrier.

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Dandie Dinmont

Breed overview

Dandie Dinmont is a small terrier breed from Scotland also known as Dandie Dinmont Terrier, Hindlee Terrier.

One of the oldest recognized terrier breeds, dating back to the 1700s from the border region between Scotland and England. It's the only breed named after a fictional character - Dandie Dinmont from Sir Walter Scott's novel 'Guy Mannering' (1815).

People looking into Dandie Dinmont usually prepare for Low exercise needs, Moderate grooming needs, 18–24 lbs • 8–11 in.

Dandie Dinmont TerrierHindlee Terrier

History and origin

Dandie Dinmont is tied to originating from Scotland, specifically Scottish Borders, with sources often placing its development around 1700 CE.

Dandie Dinmont is described here as placed in the terrier group and marked as an established breed.

One of the oldest recognized terrier breeds, dating back to the 1700s from the border region between Scotland and England. It's the only breed named after a fictional character - Dandie Dinmont from Sir Walter Scott's novel 'Guy Mannering' (1815).

Browse dog breeds from Scotland Browse more terrier breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
terrier
Size
Small
Origin country
Scotland
Region
Scottish Borders
Origin year
1700 CE
Weight
18–24 lbs
Height
8–11 in
Lifespan
12–15 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
2 / 5
Trainability
3 / 5
Good with children
3 / 5
Shedding level
2 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
Low exercise needsModerate grooming needsChildren score: 3/5Trainability: 3/5

Coat and classification

Dandie Dinmont is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

DoubleSoftLinty

Dandie Dinmont is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Long, low body with curved topline
  • Distinctive silky topknot on the head
  • Large, round, expressive eyes
  • Crisp but silky coat in pepper or mustard color

What this breed is known for

  • One of the oldest recognized terrier breeds, dating back to the 1700s from the border region between Scotland and England. It's the only breed named after a fictional character - Dandie Dinmont from Sir Walter Scott's novel 'Guy Mannering' (1815).
  • Their distinctive appearance includes a silky topknot of hair on the head, large soulful eyes, and a long, low body. The breed comes in two colors: pepper (bluish-black to silvery gray) or mustard (reddish-brown to pale fawn).
  • Once popular with both nobility and farmers for vermin control, Dandie Dinmonts are now one of the rarest terrier breeds and considered a vulnerable native breed in the UK, with fewer than 300 puppies registered annually worldwide.

Health and care notes

Dandie Dinmont is noted here for Low exercise needs and Moderate grooming needs.

  • Intervertebral Disc Disease
  • Glaucoma
  • Epilepsy

Coat details: Double, Soft, Linty

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Dandie Dinmont come from?

Dandie Dinmont is closely associated with Scotland, especially Scottish Borders in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Dandie Dinmont get?

Typical size details for Dandie Dinmont on this page are 18–24 lbs, 8–11 in, 12–15 years.

What is the Dandie Dinmont known for?

One of the oldest recognized terrier breeds, dating back to the 1700s from the border region between Scotland and England. It's the only breed named after a fictional character - Dandie Dinmont from Sir Walter Scott's novel 'Guy Mannering' (1815).

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Dandie Dinmont reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.