Dandie Dinmont Terrier
A distinctive long-bodied Scottish-Borders terrier with a silky topknot. Affectionate and dignified at home but bold and tenacious when working, with a surprisingly deep bark for its size.
Overview
A distinctive long-bodied Scottish-Borders terrier with a silky topknot. Affectionate and dignified at home but bold and tenacious when working, with a surprisingly deep bark for its size.
Good to know — a Dandie Dinmont Terrier is best with a garden and good for first-time owners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a Dandie Dinmont Terrier is fine with sensible, older children and generally fine with other dogs. They tend to be a moderate barker, and as a guide they are good for first-time owners. Early socialisation, reward-based training and supervision around young children make all the difference.
- Families with older, respectful children
- Committed first-time owners
- Homes with a secure garden
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Dandie Dinmont Terrier typically needs around an hour a day (roughly 60–80 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. A good sniffy walk, some play and a little training usually keeps them content. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
Coat upkeep is regular brushing and shedding is low. Brush regularly (a few times a week) to keep the coat healthy and remove loose hair.
- Brush several times a week
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding considerations
Like any dog, a Dandie Dinmont Terrier should get most of its nutrition from a complete, balanced dog food suited to its size and life stage. Portions scale with body weight and activity, so a small breed will eat relatively little compared with other breeds — follow the food’s feeding guide and your vet’s advice, and weigh portions to avoid creeping weight gain. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calories.
Pros & cons
The good bits
- Affectionate and calmer than many terriers
- Characterful, adaptable companion
Things to consider
- Coat needs regular hand-stripping or trimming
- Independent terrier streak and a deep bark
Similar breeds
French Bulldog
A compact, easy-going companion that suits flats and modest exercise — but with serious health considerations.
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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
A gentle, affectionate lap dog that’s wonderful with children and adapts happily to flat or house living.
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Border Terrier
A hardy, good-natured working terrier that’s friendlier with people and dogs than many of its terrier cousins.
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Dachshund
A bold, characterful "sausage dog" that suits smaller homes but needs careful handling of its long back.
View breed guide →Frequently asked questions
Are Dandie Dinmont Terriers good with children?
Fine with sensible, older children. As a general guide, Dandie Dinmont Terriers tend to be fine with sensible, older children. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Dandie Dinmont Terrier need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Dandie Dinmont Terrier needs around an hour of exercise a day (60–80 minutes), split across walks plus play. A good sniffy walk plus some play and training usually keeps them happy. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do Dandie Dinmont Terriers shed a lot?
Low shedding. Coat upkeep is regular brushing — brush regularly to keep the coat in good condition.
Are Dandie Dinmont Terriers easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Good for first-time owners. Dandie Dinmont Terriers are generally a forgiving choice for first-time owners who put in early training and socialisation. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Dandie Dinmont Terriers bark a lot?
Moderate barker. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.
Are Dandie Dinmont Terriers good with other dogs?
Generally fine with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Dandie Dinmont Terriers suit flats or smaller homes?
Best with a garden. A Dandie Dinmont Terrier is happiest with access to a secure garden and regular outdoor exercise.
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Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.