Mustard & Pepper Winter 2022

AKC Gazette: Why a Dandie Dinmont Terrier?

However, having lived with two Dandies for the past 24 years, we can say with assurance that there is ‘ something different ’ about this breed. Their personality is so en- dearing, mellow, and happy, they engage with everyone they meet.

by Anita Kay Simpson The title of this month ’ s breed column comes from a Dandie owner. With the Dandie Dinmont being such an endangered breed, this really is the question. And the

answers can only come from those who live with and love this breed. So I asked several Dandie owners this question. These are not the facts from a breed standard, or the verbiage in a promotion for the breed; rather, the following are words from the hearts of those who know and love this breed. These are people who have lived with Dan- dies for a number of years. The thoughts here are from dog lovers, all of whom have had other breeds of dogs who have shared their lives. And in their words, the Dandie is special. So here is “ Why a Dandie Dinmont Terrier? ” Michael and Teresa Radzinski, St. Augustine, Florida: “ At the Westminster dog show we

“ Of course, their look is distinctive, and their face is so expressive, not to mention that you could get lost in their large, loving, and kind eyes. When all is said and done, we think the real difference is their big, lov- ing heart. They somehow seem to sense when someone needs extra attention, always willing and ready with a kiss. We cannot imagine our lives without a Dandie. ” Joella Maser, Ocala, Florida:

“ Dandies are loyal, outgoing, love children and believe the world was made for them! The Dandie is a delight to live with, wants to be with you, wherever that might be! They are very good with other breeds too. If you happen to offend them, they do not forget! But they will forgive you, and they are yours forever. ” Dennis Diamond, Washington, D.C.: “ We can ’ t wait to welcome a Dandie into our hearts and our home. Why a Dandie? Their expressive faces speak volumes. Listen in for a minute: “ Please, let ’ s cuddle … OK, let ’ s go for a walk … sounds great! A healthy snack might be nice—I ’ d like one too! I love you … and I love you. How about a hug? Anytime! Isn ’ t it time for a new toy? … I ’ d like a car ride instead. Some water would be nice … I ’ ll join you. … It ’ s so cold tonight, can I sleep in your bed? (Of course you can!) ” In other words, you fall head over heels for this sweet, adorable breed at first sight. Beware: These little charm- ers will have you wrapped around their chubby little tootsies in no time. ” I think that these Dandie owners have answered the question many times over: The Dandie is your heart and soul. They are a special breed, and that makes this a breed worth saving. AKC Gazette , Feb 2023. Reprinted with permission. 

spent most of our time in the staging area with various breeds, handlers, and owners. We always found our- selves coming back to the Dandie Dinmont. We got our first Dandie in 2012, the second in 2013, and now we have a next generation who recently joined our family. “ Why a Dandie? These sweet, tolerant, intelligent, sturdy little dogs are easygoing, hypoallergenic, and do not shed. They are great with all the family, two - or four - legged. My older two have been to nursing homes with a tremendous reception and a standing invite back. “ They are lovable, loyal and have the right amount of energy, whether it be running in an open field or snug- gling with you on the couch while watching TV. They exhibit huge personalities and can be spirited (another word for stubborn). “ They are ‘ old souls ’; one glance into their beautiful eyes, and you will be smitten. They are an ‘ everything dog ’ —affectionate, without being needy. In the end, they always make us smile. Having a Dandie is like waking up to Christmas every day. ” Dave and Ellen Smith, Beachwood, New Jersey: “ Dave and I have often wondered what drew us to the Dandie Dinmont. There may not be any one answer.

Mustard & Pepper

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Winter 2022