West Highland White Terrier vs Cairn Terrier
Breed Compatibility
87% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Cairn Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Cairn Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Cairn Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Cairn Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Cairn Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Cairn Terrier3/5
Living Requirements
Health & Care Comparison
West Highland White Terrier
Craniomandibular Osteopathy: Jaw bone growth
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Addison's Disease: Hormone deficiency
White Shaker Syndrome: Tremor condition
Pulmonary Fibrosis: Lung tissue scarring
Skin Allergies: Dermatological issues
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
West Highland White Terrier
Pros
Adaptable to different living situations
Good with families
Low-shedding coat
Alert watchdog
Cons
Can be stubborn
Regular grooming required
May chase small animals
Can be vocal
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
West Highland White Terrier Fun Fact
Their white coat was specifically bred after a farmer accidentally shot his reddish-brown terrier, mistaking it for a fox!
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
West Highland White Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Scotland during the 1800s, these terriers were bred to hunt rats, foxes, and other vermin in the Scottish Highlands, with their white coat making them easily distinguishable from prey.
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
West Highland White Terrier
Regular grooming is essential for their double coat. They need consistent training to manage terrier stubbornness and require proper socialization to prevent small animal chasing.
Cairn Terrier
Regular grooming needed to maintain coat. Requires consistent exercise and training. Watch for signs of common health issues like eye problems.