Is the Dandie Dinmont Terrier Hypoallergenic?

Is the Dandie Dinmont Terrier Hypoallergenic?

Yes! Dandie Dinmont Terriers are hypoallergenic dogs. They hardly shed or drool.

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier Hypoallergenic Dog

Dandie Dinmont Terrier hypoallergenic dogs were originally bred on the borders of Scotland and England. They were raised as hunting dogs for small animals, such as foxes and vermin.

Independent, determined, and tenacious — Dandie Dinmont Terriers are an accurate depiction of the Terrier family. They are small in size, but have the personality of big dogs. Having a mind of their own, they believe themselves to be the rulers of the world.

What sets them apart from their terrier cousins, however, is the calmness of their nature. The human-like expressions of these classy pooches give vibes of polite and dignified “gentlemen.”

Their low-shedding hypoallergenic coat and low drooling tendency make them perfect dogs for people with dog allergies. Friendly, loyal, and playful, these terriers make a wonderful family dog.

They are smart but difficult to train, because they want to be in charge all the time. If trained well from puppyhood, however, Dandies can be the most loyal and affectionate companions to humans.

DID YOU KNOW…

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is named after a fictional character, Dandie Dinmont, a farmer created by Sir Walter Scott, in his novel “Guy Mannering.” In the book, Dinmont owned six of these small terrier dogs. The little dog breed was initially called Dandie Dinmont’s Terriers — later they were simply known as Dandie Dinmont Terriers.

For a synopsis of the details below, skip to our Dandie Dinmont Terrier hypoallergenic dog breed summary, further down the page.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier Quick Facts

Hypoallergenic Dog:	Yes!
Shedding:	Low shedding
Drooling:	Low
Size:	Small
Breed Group:	Terrier
Lifespan:	12–15 years
Energy Level:	Moderate
Trainability:	Moderate
Family Dog:	Yes! Good with older kids.

About the Breed

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier’s Physical Characteristics

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Small-sized dogs, these pups grow to a height of 8–11 inches (20–28 cm) and they typically weigh around 18–24 pounds (8–11 kilograms).

When it comes to physical features, Dandies are not like their terrier cousins. Their unique silhouette is an elongated ‘’S’’ shape — a slight dip just behind the shoulder, a consistent arch over the loin, and a slight curve toward the root of the tail. They are a sturdy build, with well-developed facial muscles, giving a wise, determined, and regal expression.

The head is large but relatively proportional to the body size. Their one-of-a-kind silky top knot is distinctive. Their non-protruding big round eyes are lively and full. Eye rims are black, whereas the eyes are a rich dark shade of hazel. The nose is black, as well. Their droopy ears are pointed at the tips.

Dandies come in two colors only. A mustard Dandie can be any shade between reddish-brown and pale fawn, with a creamy white topknot. Whereas a pepper Dandie is usually a shade between dark bluish-black and soft silvery gray, with a silvery white topknot.

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier’s Hypoallergenic Coat

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The coat of Dandie Dinmont Terriers is crisp in texture. It is a mixture of hard and soft fur, with a softer layer covering most of the underpart of the body. The top layer of fur is hard, but not coarse.

The crucial fact about the coat of these pooches is that it is hypoallergenic! They shed minimally. If you are prone to dog allergies or don’t want your couch to be covered in fur, this dog breed is perfect for you.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier Temperament

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Dandie Dinmont Terriers are the “gentlemen” of the Terrier family! They are smart and dignified, and have a calm personality. Their lively, friendly, and playful nature makes them a wonderful addition to a family with older children.

Fearless and brave; these pups won’t shy away from fighting back if provoked or confronted. They can sometimes be rather aggressive toward other dogs of the same gender.

Since hunting and chasing is second nature to them, Dandies don’t live well with smaller animals, such as hamsters or rats. They may get along with cats, but only if they are trained well as a puppy.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier hypoallergenic dogs can be wary of strangers — they will alert you with their deep bark. This makes them a determined watchdog. Once introduced, however, they will be courteous and reserved with the outsiders.

Getting a Dandie Dinmont Terrier Puppy

Are You Considering Getting a Dandie Dinmont Terrier Hypoallergenic Dog?

Here are the top five facts you should know:

Dandies shed minimally and are hypoallergenic. They make excellent companions for people prone to allergies.
A great family dog, their pleasant and lively nature makes them especially good with older kids. However, they are not the best choice for families with small children, who could test their patience.
Training can be difficult, since they want to be the boss all the time. You need to be a firm, resilient, and patient trainer if you want them to respond to your commands. Nevertheless, the right training from puppyhood will turn them into polite and devoted pets.
Assertive toward other animals, they can be scrappy with other dogs of the same gender. Whereas small pets, like rabbits and hamsters, could trigger their chase and hunting instincts.
Dandie Dinmont Terriers are a rare breed to find and can be expensive.

DID YOU KNOW…

Dandie Dinmont Terriers were a popular dog breed in England during the late 19th century. Queen Victoria owned one, as did the artist, Sir Edwin Landseer. Sir Alec Guinness and Agatha Christie are also known to have had these terriers as pets.

If you have further questions about Dandie Dinmont Terriers, check out our FAQ section.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier Training and Exercise

Encouraging Good Behavior in Your Dandie Dinmont Terrier

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This breed is a splendid match for people who are experienced with dogs, because training them can be a delightful challenge! Like any typical terrier, Dandies can be hard to train.

They are stubborn and tough. They may be small but won’t hesitate to take on anyone who challenges them. A highly independent breed, Dandies need a trainer who is not only persistent but also patient with them.

Stubbornness aside, they do have a will to please. A good book on Dandie Dinmont Training could be of great help to novice owners.

Exercise Needs for the Dandie Dinmont Terrier Dog

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Dandie Dinmonts are a medium energy dog. A daily 30-minute good old dog walk can burn off your terrier’s energy to an extent. Although, you shouldn’t walk them without a leash. They have a strong hunting and chasing drive and will not hesitate to bolt after smaller animals they come across while outside.

A good game of fetch or tug of war can help release some energy, as well. Providing your Dandie with plenty of exercise could help with their training. It is easier to train a tired dog than an energetic one!

Dandie Dinmont Terrier Grooming and Care

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The hypoallergenic coat of the Dandie Dinmont hypoallergenic dog needs a fair amount of grooming. A daily routine for brushing is needed to avoid matting. Whereas professional grooming twice a year ensures that dead fur is stripped off.

Bi-weekly ear cleaning and monthly claw trimming will keep your pet healthy and tidy. Adding regular teeth brushing to the grooming regime keeps dental problems away.

Find out what equipment you will need for grooming your dog here.

Similar Dog Breeds To Dandie Dinmont Terrier

West Highland White Terrier

Cesky Terrier

Petit Bassett Griffon Vendeen

Sealyham Terrier

Dandie Dinmont Terrier Health Issues and Care

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Dandie Dinmont Terriers have very few health issues. However, because of their elongated physique, these dogs can develop back problems if their weight is not kept under control. Other health concerns associated with this dog breed are:

Getting your Dandie Dinmont puppy from a responsible breeder decreases the risk of future health problems. You should ask the breeder for the genetic testing report of their breeding stock, to ensure you are getting a healthy pup.

Conclusion

The smart and autonomous Dandie Dinmont Terrier is an interesting canine companion to have. They make excellent family dogs because of their happy and spirited nature.

Training this dog breed is not an easy task, though. Consistent positive teaching is required to keep these self-sufficient terriers under control. Finally, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier hypoallergenic coat makes these dogs well suited for people with allergies.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier FAQ

Do Dandie Dinmont Terriers Shed?

Slightly. Dandie Dinmont Terrier shedding is minimal to none. However, they do need regular grooming.

Is the Dandie Dinmont Terrier Good for People with Dog Allergies?

Yes! A Dandie Dinmont Terrier hypoallergenic dog is allergy-friendly, making it a wonderful family dog for families with members prone to dog allergies.

Is the Dandie Dinmont Terrier Good With Kids?

Dandies are great with older children. But they are not the best option for smaller kids who aren’t old enough to understand boundaries.