New Dandie Dinmont Trail to launch at Bowhill

The Dandie Dinmont is a rare breed, on average less than a hundred puppies are born each year in the UK, but each and every one can trace its lineage back to Bowhill and a gamekeeper located at Bowhill in the 1830s, James Kerrs.

James Kers duties as head gamekeeper of Bowhill Estate included checking traps. In the late 1830’s/early 1840’s he found a Dandie Dinmont Terrier while going about this work. It is believed the dog was lost or abandoned by poachers or gypsies. At the time to be caught as a poacher was classed as a serious offence with punishment, so the dog was not claimed. Today, every Dandie Dinmont on earth can trace their pedigree (Tail Male) to the Bowhill Kennels and the Foundling ‘Old Pepper’.

The Old Pepper Trail takes in some beautiful scenery around Bowhill. Starting in the car park it follows part of the Bell O’ The Woods walk, around south Bowhill field, with excited lambs springing into action! The route then takes in the lower loch, with a new Dandie Dinmont bench in a picturesque viewing area. The route then ambles back up to the upper loch, past the ice house and adventure playground before making its way back to the courtyard.