Bernese Mountain Dog vs Cairn Terrier
Breed Compatibility
75% Compatible
Energy Level
Bernese Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Cairn Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Bernese Mountain Dog: Easy Training0.8
Cairn Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Bernese Mountain Dog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Cairn Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Bernese Mountain Dog5/5
Cairn Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Bernese Mountain Dog5/5
Cairn Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Bernese Mountain Dog4/5
Cairn Terrier3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Bernese Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development problem
Cancer: Higher than average risk
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
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
Bernese Mountain Dog
Pros
Gentle and patient with children
Loyal family companion
Good working dog capabilities
Excellent guard dog instincts
Cons
Short lifespan
Heavy shedding
Heat sensitivity
Significant grooming needs
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
Bernese Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs were historically known as 'cheese dogs' for helping transport dairy products.
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
Bernese Mountain Dog
Origin:
Swiss farmers in the canton of Bern relied on these dogs for drafting, droving cattle, and guarding property during the 1800s. Their versatile working abilities made them invaluable.
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
Bernese Mountain Dog
Regular brushing needed to manage heavy shedding. Exercise must be moderated in warm weather. Joint health supplements recommended throughout life.
Cairn Terrier
Regular grooming needed to maintain coat. Requires consistent exercise and training. Watch for signs of common health issues like eye problems.
Shedding
FrequentShedding
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