Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Genetic Predispositions and Health

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a generally healthy breed, but may suffer from some health conditions including brachygnathism, chondrodysplasia, chondrodystrophy, primary angle closure glaucoma, hyperadrenocorticism, oligodontia, portosystemic shunts, prognathism, ulcerative keratitis, and cheyletiella mite infections.

Personality and Behavior

Dandie Dinmont Terriers are known for their independent and intelligent nature. They can be reserved around strangers but are generally affectionate and loyal towards their families. Despite their small size, they have a strong hunting instinct and may show aggression towards small animals if not properly trained. They are also known for their unique "lion's roar" of a bark.

Training a Dandie Dinmont Terrier requires patience due to their independent streak, but their intelligence makes them capable learners. They are generally good with children but, like all breeds, should be supervised to ensure safe interaction.

Overall, Dandie Dinmont Terriers are loyal, affectionate dogs that make excellent companions for those willing to meet their needs for moderate exercise and mental stimulation.

Terrier Lineage

A canine genetic lineage is a group of individuals or entire breeds that descended from common ancestors predating modern breed formation. Often these lineages are associated with a ‘type’ of dog with a unique historical working role and associated behaviors (e.g., herding, scent hunting, etc.).

Terriers were bred to hunt pests like rats, foxes, and badgers. Terriers are tenacious and fearless with high energy levels, strong prey drive, and feisty temperaments which all help in their hunting abilities. Terriers were used as mighty hunters in both urban and rural settings. Terriers have natural hunting instincts and protective tendencies.

Example breeds with ancestry from this lineage include Jack Russell Terrier, Scottish Terrier, and Yorkshire Terrier.

Fun Facts

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1918.

The Dandie, which was entered into the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1886, is the only AKC breed named after a fictional character.

According to the AKC, Dandie fanciers say that every Dandie alive today can be traced back to a dog name Old Ginger who was sired by a dog named Old Pepper

Queen Victoria of England owned a Dandie.

References

Doi:10.1002/9781119540687

https://www.ukcdogs.com/dandie-dinmont-terrier

https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/c_dg_dandie_dinmont_terrier

https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/dandie-dinmont-terrier/

https://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/168g03-en.pdf