Alt Names: None Country of Origin: Scotland

History: One authority states that the Dandie Dinmont Terrier was evolved from the Skye Terrier and the similarity is certainly striking, though the Dandie is much smaller and there are differences in colouring and ear carriage. There is no doubt, however, that it originally came from Scotland where the dogs are sometimes used in packs for otter hunting. It is, like all other Terriers, a great hunter, and even the town-dweller never loses its love of the chase, as many a cat knows.

These plucky little Terriers are closely related to the Bedlingtons, and can boast of a fairly ancient lineage, having been first recognised under the present name after the appearance of Scott's "Guy Mannering" 1814.

Packs of these terriers were kept by farmers of the Borders for hunting fox and badger and for vermin killing. Scott in Guy Mannering (1814) gives a charming description of Dandies he knew - Auld Pepper, Auld Mustard, Little Pepper and Young Pepper. The Dandie is a devoted companion and though he has pluck, and will tackle "anything with fur on it," is not quarrelsome.

Appearance: Distinctive head with beautiful silky covering, with large, wise intelligent eyes offsetting long, low weaselly body. Short, strong legs ; weatherproof coat. Weight is 8-11 kg ( 18-24 lbs) for dogs in good working condition. The lower weights preferred.

Temperament: Game, workmanlike Terrier. Independant, highly intelligent, determined, persistent, sensitive, affectionate and dignified. Dandies make excellent house dogs and have a remarkably deep and loud bark.