Basic Information To Know About The Cairn Terrier

The Cairn Terrier (also known simply as the "Cairn") is a terrier that features a fox-like face with pointed ears and a wiry coat that comes in virtually any color but white. The breed has origins dating back to the early 1900s in Scotland, and they were first bred for the main purpose of hunting foxes and other small game.

A few of their most recognizable features include their non-shedding coat, high level of energy and playfulness with children - which help make the Cairn Terrier a suitable choice for allergy sufferers and active owners or families.

The Cairn Terrier was originally created in the regions of the Isle of Skye and the Highlands of Scotland where they became a distinct breed from the Scottish and West Highland White Terriers in the early 1900s. They were originally used for the purposes of hunting prey such as foxes and rodents that resided in ledges and rock piles throughout the countryside.

Cairn Terriers are classed as a small-sized dog. The recommended standard size for the Cairn Terrier male is 10-12 inches high from paw to shoulder and a weight of 14 pounds, whereas the recommended size for female Cairn Terriers is 9.5 inches high from paw to shoulder with a weight of 13 pounds.

The Cairn Terrier is well-known for their spirited and independent temperament. They are generally reserved with strangers and are a natural watch dog but their size can make them unsuitable as a guard dog.

The Cairn Terrier is also known to be quite intelligent - ranking 35th compared to other dogs based on their ability to learn obedience commands. They are also known to be playful with children - making them fairly suitable as a family pet. The Cairn Terrier is not highly compatible with other animals like rabbits, cats or mice due to their natural prey instinct but they can get along with other dogs when properly socialized.

The Cairn Terrier needs a well-fenced yard if they are to be left outside as they love to dig, but they can be also quite suitable for apartment living if they are exercised enough.


The Cairn Terrier enjoys activities such as chasing after a ball or stick, going for a jog or play sessions with canine companions. They have a high level of energy and need to be given daily exercise in the form of moderate-length daily walks to prevent destructive behavior such as digging or excessive barking.

The Cairn Terrier can make the perfect dog for active owners or families, apartment dwellers and allergy sufferers due to their non-shedding coat. They are suitable for anyone who is willing to commit to a small amount of grooming and take time to give them early socialization and sensitive obedience training where the human is the leader as well as take them for moderate daily walks and give a very high amount of companionship and attention - they do not do well if left alone all day. Though they might be somewhat unsuitable living with most other pets, if you are able to meet their needs for a well-fenced yard, high companionship and appropriate physical as well as mental stimulation then the Cairn Terrier could make the ideal dog breed for you.

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