In 1886, the first three Dandies registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC). They were imported from Scotland. The first Dandie Dinmont Terrier to finish his championship, did so in 1893. His name was King ‘O The Heather and he too was an imported dog.

The first American bred champion, Auld Pepper ‘O The Ark, finished in 1931. By February 1932 devoted enthusiasts met for the first formal DDTCA meeting. Later that year the first DDTCA National Specialty was held at Greenwich.