Cairn Terrier
Quick Summary
Spirited, adaptable terriers ideal for active owners. Key traits include intelligence and independence. Best suited for experienced dog owners seeking an energetic companion.
Contents
Weight Range
13-14 lbs
♂ Male: 14-14 lbs
♀ Female: 13-13 lbs
Height Range
24-25 inches
♂ Male: 10-10"
♀ Female: 10-10"
Life Expectancy
13-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #68
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Terrier Group
Originally bred for Developed in the Scottish Highlands during the 1800s to hunt foxes, badgers, and other vermin
Popularity
#69
Moderately popular breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 10"-10" |
| Female Height | 10"-10" |
| Male Weight | 14-14 lbs |
| Female Weight | 13-13 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($800-$1,500), supplies, and vaccinations. Monthly expenses cover food, grooming, and preventive care. Annual veterinary costs average $500-800.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Alert and spirited terriers with a confident, cheerful disposition. High energy levels require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Generally friendly with family but may be reserved with strangers.
Social Needs
Thrives on family interaction and moderate dog socialization. Can tolerate being alone for short periods if properly trained. Requires early socialization for balanced temperament.
Breed Overview
Cairn Terriers are compact, well-muscled dogs with a shaggy, weather-resistant double coat. Their distinctive features include a broad head, pointed ears, and alert, dark-colored eyes that reflect their intelligent nature. Standing 10 inches at the shoulder, these sturdy terriers possess a bold, confident stance and move with agile determination.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent vermin hunter
- ✓ Adaptable to various homes
- ✓ Affectionate with family
- ✓ Low maintenance grooming
Cons
- ✗ Can be stubborn
- ✗ May chase small animals
- ✗ Tends to bark
- ✗ Can be independent
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Alert, Cheerful, Busy |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Agreeable |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Occasional |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 45-60 minutes of daily exercise through brisk walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation activities. Moderate intensity level suitable for active families, with a mix of indoor games and outdoor exploration.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 1-1.5 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special consideration for weight management as breed can be prone to obesity. Fresh water should always be available.
Feed 1-1.5 cups of premium dry dog food daily, divided into two meals. Choose age-appropriate formulas rich in protein. Monitor portion sizes to prevent weight gain. Fresh water always available.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adapts well to apartment living with sufficient exercise. Ideal for small homes with secure yards. Tolerates various climates but needs protection from extreme heat.
Minimum space requirements are modest, making them suitable for apartment living. Adapts well to various environments but needs secure outdoor areas. Thrives with access to fenced yard.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Bred in the rugged Scottish Highlands, these tenacious terriers earned their reputation as skilled hunters on the Isle of Skye. Their name derives from the cairns (rock piles) where they would pursue prey.
Historical Purpose
Developed in the Scottish Highlands during the 1800s to hunt foxes, badgers, and other vermin. These hardy dogs excelled at navigating rocky terrain and pursuing quarry.
Fun Fact
Known as 'the best little pal in the world,' Cairns were once grouped with Scotties and West Highland Terriers.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular grooming needed to maintain coat. Requires consistent exercise and training. Watch for signs of common health issues like eye problems.