Dandie Dinmont Terrier vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Dandie Dinmont Terrier and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Distinctive with a long body and silky topknot, this affectionate terrier charms with intelligence and loyalty. Adaptable and alert, it thrives as a devoted companion.
Golden Retriever
A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.
Quick comparison
Small
8–11 kg
Crisp topcoat, soft undercoat
12–15 years
8–11 kg
Moderately active
Large
29–34 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
10–12 years
25–29 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Generally sociable with family and familiar people
Quick learner, responds well to training
Moderate exercise needs, not overly active
Enjoys games but not constantly playful
Adjusts well to new living situations
Golden Retriever
Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs
Quick to learn commands and routines
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Intervertebral disc disease, glaucoma
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Good companion
Their affectionate, manageable nature suits first-time owners with moderate dedication
Very suitable
Small size and moderate energy make them comfortable in apartments
Moderately suitable
Enjoy walks but do not require intense activity or constant stimulation
Supervised only
Tolerate gentle children but prefer calm, respectful handling
Selective tolerance
Can coexist with other pets if socialized from puppyhood
Not ideal
Dislike being left alone and may develop separation anxiety or behavioral issues
Golden Retriever
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage
Needs space
Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people
Perfect fit
Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
- Loyal and affectionate with family
- Good with respectful children
- Moderate exercise needs suit urban living
- Low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat
- Generally healthy and long-lived
Golden Retriever
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
- Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
- Prone to stubborn, independent streak
- Early socialization essential for friendliness
- Can be reserved with strangers
- Back issues due to long spine
- Requires regular coat grooming and trimming
Golden Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions
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