Owners of a Dandie Dinmont should provide an enclosed yard for the dog, or plan to walk the dog on a leash for airing. The Dandie is by heredity an instinctive, independent hunter and the slightest movement may inspire a swift dash in pursuit. The dog’s safety, and his behavior as a canine good citizen are up to the owner. The Dandie is a restful companion and does not require constant attention, but does need love, a regular scheduled and consistency in training and positive reminder of the rules of the house.

The breed needs regular moderate exercise, a nutritious diet (taking care the animal does not become overweight) and booster shots as recommended by one’s veterinarian.

Regular coat care is necessary to keep a Dandie in good condition. Although the breed gives the appearance of being very natural, the look is achieved with frequent attention to the coat and furnishings. The necessary coat care is considered medium to high maintenance. Because of very little shedding, brushing should be a regular frequent routine to remove any loose hair and prevent matting, especially in puppies. The top of the muzzle is kept trimmed short and the corners of the eyes free of hair. Ear canals routinely must be pulled free of hair. Foot care includes trimming the nails and cutting away hair from between the pads.

The body coat of the Dandie, the “jacket”, is a mixture of soft under coat with a hard outer coat that feels rather crisp. The color is only on the ends of the hard coat: these hard hairs are plucked or stripped out, not cut or clipped. As is true of the terrier breeds, the Dandie does not “shed” his coat. When the long, old hard coat is pulled out, new hair grows in. A coat that is trimmed by cutting or clipping loses both color and texture, greatly changing the Dandie’s characteristic appearance. While the body coat should be pulled, the soft furnishings on the legs underbody and head may be trimmed with scissors or thinning shears.

Information on DDTCA charts and videos on pet and show grooming is available the DDTCA Properties Chair, at CMusson784@aol.com.