HomeDogCairn Terrier: A Small and Cute Dog Breed of Scotland

Cairn Terrier: A Small and Cute Dog Breed of Scotland

The Cairn Terrier is a hardy, intelligent dog breed. The dog is good-tempered, and their friendly nature makes them good family pets. They are the energetic dog, famous for your young children. The dog will respond well to positive reinforcement training. 

History and Origin of Cairn Terrier


The Cairn Terrier is a descendant of the working terrier from the Isle of Skye that worked among the rocks and cliffs, bolting otters, foxes, and vermin. The Cairn Terrier was grouped with other Scotch terriers until 1873. In the late 1800s, Scottish Terrier breeders began to breed separate lines.

Cairn Terrier

The Cairn Terriers were first recognized as a distinct breed in 1912. In the early 1900s, it was often bred with the West Highland White Terrier. The Cairn Terrier originated in Scotland.

Physical Description of Dog


This short, hardy, short-legged terrier is more extended than tall. The skull of the dog breed is broad, the muzzle is strong, and the nose is black. The brown eyes are set wide apart and sunken with shaggy eyebrows. It has small, pointed, erect ears set wide apart on the head.

The short tail is carried high but not over the back. It has a profuse double coat. The outer body coat is hard and weather resistant but softer on the head. It is any color but white and is often dark on the ears, muzzle, and tail tip.

Colors of the Cairn Terrier


The standard coat colors of the dog breed are:

  • Black.
  • Brindle.
  • Cream.
  • Red.
  • Wheaten.
  • Grey.

Height, Weight, and LifeSpan of Dog


The average height of the Cairn Terrier is about 9.5 to 10 inches, and the weight is about 13 to 14 pounds. The average life span of the dog is about 12 to 15 years.

The temperament of Cairn Terrier


The Cairn Terrier is lively and friendly. It is generally considered mellower than most terriers, and some describe it as catlike. It is a good family dog that is eager to please and craves affection. It gets along with children and other animals.

Best Ownership of Dog


The terrier dog is lovely, small, curious, and active. The dog breed does well with a family in the country, suburbs, or city.

Special Needs of Cairn Terrier


The dog needs the following essential care and management aspects:

  • Grooming.
  • Some exercise.
  • Training.
  • Socialization.
  • Proper diet and nutrition.
  • Health care.

Health Concerns of Dog


The dog needs regular vaccination and deworming. The dog is affected by well-known canine diseases. The following diseases are seen widespread than in other breeds: 

  • Cataracts.
  • Craniomandibular Osteopathy in dogs.
  • Globoid cell leukodystrophy.
  • Liver shunt.
  • Luxating patellas.
  • Skin allergies.
  • Leg Perthes.

Cairn Terrier Puppies


The Cairn terriers are small and rugged dog breeds. The dog breed originated in Scotland to hunt vermin on farms. The dog also became an excellent family dog, adorable with kids, and an extraordinary companion for older adults. The price of the puppies ranges from 500-2500 USD. You must purchase the puppies from a registered kennel club. 

Final Talk on Cairn Terriers Dog


Cairn Terriers are independent, lively, and sensible dogs that do well in apartments and large homes. They need proper training and are easy to groom. In my article, I have to discuss all the information about the cairn Terrier that is very interesting for dog lovers. If you are interested to know the other dog breeds, don’t hesitate to visit my website. Thank you for your time.

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