The Dandie Dinmont Terrier may not look like a terrier with its curved body and silky topknot but he has many of the quintessential terrier traits. A small, robust, fiercely determined and independent dog, a Dandie Dinmont Terrier is especially reserved with strangers. Even their owner will have to earn this dog’s respect. But once earned, they are fiercely loyal. They seldom challenge other dogs but will rise to meet any challenge issued. He accepts other pets but one must remember his history as an otter and badger hunter before attempting an introduction to other small mammals. With a low tolerance for being pestered, he may snap at young children. With an unusually deep bark for their size and not one for macho posturing as many terriers do, he is a terrier that makes a good watchdog. Although they are often territorial and dominant, they are not up to the task of being a protector. His activity level, slightly higher inside than out, meets most of his modest exercise needs. But when outside, any fences that hold him must be well secured, especially at their base; as like most terriers, they love to dig. Less high-strung than many terrier breeds, they will, however, dig in if they feel the need. Dandies do best when they live indoors but have outdoor access. With regular exercise, they can adjust to apartment living.

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a small dog, weighing between 18 and 24 pounds and standing between 8 and 11 inches at the shoulder. Possessing a long lean body, they are almost twice as long as they are tall. Their coat is either pepper or mustard with the back darker than the belly. The silky topknot is silver or cream. Pups are born dark and lighten with age. The coat is hard hair intermixed with soft hair. Dandie Dinmont Terriers are low shedders, but they need regular grooming to maintain their coat.

Needing strongly socialized, Dandie Dinmont Terriers are strong-willed, independent dogs that need firm, consistent training from an experienced trainer. Some of the qualities that make them tenacious hunters also make them a challenge to train. They have a mind of their own and are not always agreeable to accepting commands from humans, especially from those whom they do not respect. Even well-trained Dandie Dinmont Terriers cannot be exercised off leash in unconfined spaces because their hunting instinct forces them to chase anything that moves. Terriers are not for owners who have yet to demonstrate their ability to establish leadership with a canine.