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Cairn Terrier
The Cairn Terrier is a small, mischievous terrier breed. This active terrier requires plenty of exercise and a secure yard.
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Physical Characteristics
- Small, sturdy build
- Wide head with hazel eyes, black nose
- Bushy eyebrows
- Short tail
- Coat: Harsh, shaggy outer hair with soft undercoat; come in any color other than white
- Height: 9-10 inches
- Weight: 13-14 pounds
- Average lifespan: 12-15 years
Temperament
- Loyal, attentive, playful, mischievous, high-spirited, independent, curious, brave, eager to please
- Interaction with people: Good with children
- Interaction with animals: Good with other animals
- Level of attention needed: Needs significant amount of attention and affection
- Training: Needs firm, kind training and discipline
Medical Conditions
- Allergies
- Craniomandibular Osteopathy (bone disease)
- Cryptorchidism
- Epilepsy
- Hypothyroidism
- Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
- Liver shunt
- Ophthalmic disorders (including pprogressive retinaal atrophy, cataracts and glaucoma)
- Patellar luxation
- von Willebrand's disease
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- OK for apartments
- Adaptable to most living situations
- Needs daily walks
- Loves to dig and chase; watch carefully in yards
Grooming
- Light shedder
- Requires significant grooming to maintain coat
- Brush and comb several times a week to prevent matting
- Bathe once a month, brushing the coat until it dries
- Trim around ears and eyes or have a professional trim regularly
Other Facts
- Gained fame as Toto in "The Wizard of Oz;" Toto, whose real name was Terry, was actually a female
- The name "Cairn" comes from Scotland’s stone piles along farms and graves
- Descended from working terriers native to the Isle of Skye in Scotland
Breed History
- Originated in England
- Documented back to 1500
- Descended from Dandie Dinmont, Scottish Skye, West Highland white terrier and the Scotch terrier lines
- Historically used to drive otter and foxes from their holes
- Gained popularity after 1930
- One of the first terriers in Scotland
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Cairn Terrier Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit CTCA Rescue
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