Australian Cattle Dog vs Cairn Terrier
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Cattle Dog: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Cairn Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Australian Cattle Dog: May be Stubborn0.2
Cairn Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Cattle Dog: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Cairn Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Cattle Dog3/5
Cairn Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Cattle Dog3/5
Cairn Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Cattle Dog3/5
Cairn Terrier3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Australian Cattle Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss risk
OCD: Obsessive behavioral patterns
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Eye Problems: Various ocular concerns
Cairn Terrier
Craniomandibular Osteopathy: Jaw growth
Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy: Neural
Ocular Melanosis: Eye condition
Portosystemic Shunt: Liver issue
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clot
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision
Pros & Cons Comparison
Australian Cattle Dog
Pros
Extremely loyal and protective
Highly intelligent
Excellent work ethic
Great endurance
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise requirements
Can be stubborn
May nip at heels
Needs constant mental stimulation
Can be territorial
Cairn Terrier
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
Australian Cattle Dog Fun Fact
These dogs often have a unique mask-like marking around their eyes, earning them the nickname 'masked merle.'
Cairn Terrier Fun Fact
Known as 'the best little pal in the world,' Cairns were once grouped with Scotties and West Highland Terriers.
Heritage & Purpose
Australian Cattle Dog
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1800s for cattle herding in harsh outback conditions. These dogs were bred to manage livestock across vast distances with minimal supervision.
Cairn Terrier
Origin:
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.
Special Considerations
Australian Cattle Dog
Needs extensive exercise and mental stimulation daily. Regular brushing required during shedding seasons. Early socialization crucial for balanced temperament.
Cairn Terrier
Regular grooming needed to maintain coat. Requires consistent exercise and training. Watch for signs of common health issues like eye problems.
Shedding
RegularlyShedding
OccasionalRelated Comparisons
Similar Size
Australian Cattle Dog vs Boykin Spaniel →Similar Size
Australian Cattle Dog vs Afghan Hound →