The Dandie Dinmont Terrier was developed in the border country of England and Scotland. Early development of the breed took place in the 17th century from breeds selected from the rough native terriers of the Cheviot Hills. The intent of this breeding was to make the animal a specialist at hunting otters and badgers. The breed is named after a character in the novel Guy Mannering by Sir Walter Scott. The character was a jovial farmer, named Dandie Dinmont, who cared for dogs of this breed. These dogs were called Mustard and Pepper Terriers, referring to their color. The success of the novel ensure a rise in popularity throughout Great Britain. The breed was referred to first as Dandie Dinmont’s Terriers, with the apostrophe being dropped shortly thereafter. Dandie Dinmonts are the only breed named after a fictional character.
Today they are one of the most endangered purebreds, with a real danger of them actually going extinct.
