Cairn Terrier Breed Information Puppies and Breeders Australia

Breed Category: Terrier Group
Country of Origin: Scotland
Average Size: 25-30 cm (at the withers)
Average Weight: 6-8 kg
Average Life Span: 12-14 years
Grooming Requirements: Medium
Exercise Requirements: Medium

Native to Scotland, the Cairn Terrier is one of the world’s oldest terrier breeds. Though not large in size, this type of dog was bred to hunt rodents, badgers and other small animals.  It originally hunted animals residing in man-made piles of rocks called cairns, which is how it earned its name as the Cairn Terrier.  This breed has long been respected for its intelligence and endurance.  Though it is now more commonly kept as a pet, the breed still retains its hunting instincts and will always be on the lookout for rodents and squirrels.

The breed grew in popularity following the 1939 movie production of The Wizard of Oz in which Dorothy’s dog Toto, a Cairn Terrier, appeared.  This type of dog was originally considered part of the Skye Terrier breed, as it inhabited an area of Scotland known as the Isle of Skye, but it has since established itself as its own distinct breed.

The Cairn Terrier is typically 25-30 cm in height and 6-8 kg in weight.  It has a thick double coat consisting of a short and soft undercoat with a long and shaggy outer coat.  Regular grooming and brushing will help keep its long coat clean and untangled.  The Cairn Terrier is hypoallergenic and is not prone to excessive shedding, so it is an appealing breed for those who have allergies to dogs.

Its coat can be a number of colours, including black, brindle, cream, gray, red or sandy.  On occasion, the Cairn Terrier’s coat will darken throughout its lifetime.  Its eyes are generally brown or hazel in colour and it has short, pointed ears that stand straight up and a medium-length, fluffy tail.

This breed is intensely loyal to its family and will behave protectively in the event of a threat, though it is generally a sociable and outgoing dog.  It may not do well with cats and small animals, but it generally gets along well with other dogs if properly socialised.  Its strong hunting instincts may prompt it to behave aggressively with or chase around other animals if it does not have training in obedience and socialisation.

The Cairn Terrier thrives on exercise and the thrill of the hunt, so it is important for this breed to be kept on a leash when walking and in a fenced-in yard when outside in the event that it gives chase to an animal.  Training will help the dog resist the urge to chase, but the prey instinct in this breed is very strong.

When it is not busy keeping an eye out for neighbourhood rodents and varmints, the Cairn Terrier thoroughly enjoys spending time with its family.  This is a smart and adventurous breed that loves to dig and play outside.  It may be prone to barking if it is bored or left alone for extended periods of time.  Sufficient exercise will help prevent these and other behavioural problems from developing.

Though this breed is generally healthy, there are conditions that Cairn Terriers are a higher risk of developing.  These include eye problems such as cataracts and corneal dystrophy.  Hip dysplasia and epilepsy may also be an issue.  Additionally, Cairn Terriers are prone to thyroid issues, which may cause them to become overweight.  Obesity is also a health concern, so it is important to seek veterinary help if substantial weight gain is evident.

The Cairn Terrier may be small in size, but it has a big personality and is adored for its playful and outgoing nature.