Overview:

The Cairn Terrier is an intelligent, rough-looking dog which is intelligent, a very good friend and can keep you happy. This breed is bursting with energy and needs ample opportunity to run and play. It is an ideal dog for a sporting family.

Country of origin:

Scotland

Size type:

Small dog breed

Character:

This is an intelligent, brave, cheerful, lively, playful and extrovert dog which is hard upon itself, uncomplicated, affectionate, eager to learn, alert and vigilant.

Breed group:

Terrier dog breed (AKC) (UKC)

Height:

25-33cm for dogs and 23-30kg for bitches

Weight:

6-8kg

Temperament:

The Cairn Terrier makes a first-class friend for children; it can tolerate rough play and has a well-developed sense of humour. They can also get on well with other dogs, although some of this dog breed will stand their ground. They go into action when they detect danger.

Coat:

The Cairn Terrier has a double-layered coat, of which the topcoat is hard and abundant, and the undercoat is soft and short. The hair may not curl. Permitted colours are grey, wheaten, cream-red, or almost black. Darker markings on the ears and muzzle are highly regarded. Cairns may not be white or totally black.

Care:

The coat needs regular grooming with a brush and comb. About twice per year-depending upon the condition of the coat-the dead hairs need to be plucked by hand. From time to time remove excess hairs from ear passages. A Cairn Terrier should have a rough appearance like a road-sweeper’s broom and is therefore not excessively groomed for showing. For showing, any excess hair around the feet, ears, and tail is removed.

Training:

Teach this dog early to get on with cats and other household pets so that it will not chase them when it is much older. Puppies can take a game of pulling the ropes quite seriously so you must decide when the game is to end by giving it the command “drop it.” The antics of puppies are often the cause of laughter but do not forget that the strokes the dog might pull as a puppy will be less amusing when it is grown up. The Cairn needs loving but also consistent and strict training.