Dandie Dinmont Terrier
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is described by the AKC as independent, proud, smart, a member of the Terrier Group, originally from English-Scottish border.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 8-11 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 18-24 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Independent / Proud / Smart [1] |
| AKC group | Terrier Group [1] |
| Origin | English-Scottish border [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 186 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
A Dandie will do best exercising a half hour or so twice a day in the form of a brisk walk, or perhaps chasing a ball across the yard. When outdoors he should always be on a leash or in a securely fenced area. The Dandie was bred to hunt, and even the best trained will dart away given the chance to chase what they perceive as prey. [1]
Grooming
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier does not shed, but that doesn't mean he requires no grooming. His coat must be stripped of dead hair at least a couple of times a year. This can be done by hand by his breeder, or the owner can learn to do it using a special stripping tool recommended by the breeder. [1]
Health issues to budget for
There is no breed that is completely disease free, but a Dandie comes closer than many others. A rare few develop lymphoma, but otherwise the breed is typically quite healthy. Responsible breeders do genetic testing on their breeding stock to avoid any potential problems. As with all breeds, a Dandie's ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed often, using a toothpaste designed for dogs. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: No recommended health tests. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Dandie Dinmont Terrier in 1886. [1]
- It ranked No. 186 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 172 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Dandie.” [1]
- The AKC lists English-Scottish border as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 1 recommended health screening for breeding dogs, such as No recommended health tests. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 2/5)
Common questions
How long do Dandie Dinmont Terriers live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How big does a Dandie Dinmont Terrier get?
AKC breed information lists height 8-11 inches and weight 18-24 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Dandie Dinmont Terrier?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.