Cairn Terrier
Summary
The Cairn Terrier is one of the oldest Scottish terriers and, possibly, the progenitor of many other Scottish terrier breeds. Its name comes from the "cairns" — stone mounds that marked paths and tombs in the Scottish Highlands — where it pursued foxes, badgers, and rodents. It is a robust breed, with a natural appearance and rough coat, that retains today the same practical character of its ancestors.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Small
- Height (male)
- 28–31 cm
- Height (female)
- 25–28 cm
- Weight (male)
- 6–7.5 kg
- Weight (female)
- 5.5–7 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 13–15 years
- Coat
- double; hard and rough outer coat; soft and woolly undercoat
- Common Colors
- cream, wheaten, red, sandy, grizzle, or any variant of these; black, black-and-tan, and white are not accepted
Temperament & Personality
The Cairn is active, curious, cheerful, and independent. It has a genuine terrier spirit: it digs, chases, explores — and does all of this with a contagious enthusiasm. It is very attached to the family and, despite its independence, adapts well to domestic life. It tends to be vocal and to express its disagreement very clearly. A loyal and entertaining companion for those who accept its terrier characteristics.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- High
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 45–60 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Moderate
- Shedding
- Moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 4–6 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Allergies
- Hypoglycemia
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
- Patellar luxation
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Recommended Health Tests
- Eye examination
- Joint evaluation
Compatibility
- With Children
- Good
- With Other Dogs
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Acceptable
