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Training a Dandie Dinmont Terrier: what works and what to expect

How the Dandie Dinmont Terrier learns, common training challenges and what motivates it.

Dandies are intelligent but independent and like to think things over. They respond well to calm, patient reward-based training with food. Harsh methods tend to make them dig in their heels. Short sessions with lots of variety keep them interested.

Common challenges include stubbornness, chasing and some wariness of strangers. Start socialization early, introducing the puppy to people, children, other dogs and new places. Practice recall in safe areas with high-value rewards. Many Dandies bark at noises, so teaching a quiet cue is useful.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier training in numbers

Easy to train

Barking

5 means very vocal

Copes with alone time

Open with strangers

Good with other dogs

Good with children

Training guides for similar-sized breeds