Rather they are Dandie Dinmonts, an old sporting breed of terrier popular on the Borders in earlier times.
If this painting is datable to 1840, it would appear to be an interesting early example of the breed. However, if it is, as also suggested, by Henry Calvert, primarily a horse artist, it might be datable nearer to 1850.
I look forward to visiting the fair next week, and perhaps seeing the painting if still available.
SH Waters, Pebworth
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