Dog Breeds - Cairn Terrier

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed is expected to show towards its family members or familiar individuals varies. Certain breeds may seem distant towards everyone besides their owner, whereas other breeds treat everyone they know as their closest companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
A breed's tolerance and patience with children can vary. It is essential to supervise dogs around young children or any child who has limited exposure to dogs. Some breeds are known for their family-friendly nature and tend to have a higher level of tolerance and patience with children's behavior. However, each dog is an individual and their temperament and behavior can still depend on their training, socialization, and past experiences.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The friendliness of a breed towards other dogs can vary. It is important to supervise and carefully introduce dogs to one another regardless of the breed. However, some breeds tend to be more naturally inclined to get along with other dogs, both in domestic settings and in public environments.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed sheds can vary significantly. Breeds that have high shedding tendencies often require more frequent brushing to manage the shedding and minimize loose hair. Additionally, high-shedding breeds are more likely to trigger allergies in sensitive individuals and may require more diligent cleaning, such as consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling, to maintain cleanliness in the living environment. However, it's worth noting that regular grooming and proper care can help minimize shedding in most breeds.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance tasks can vary depending on the breed. It's important to consider your available time, patience, and budget for these grooming efforts. Breeds with longer hair or those prone to matting may require more frequent brushing and may benefit from professional grooming appointments. Dogs with continuously growing hair, such as certain terrier breeds may need regular trimming to maintain their coat's appearance. However, all breeds require regular nail trimming to prevent discomfort or issues with mobility. Before selecting a breed, it's crucial to research and understand the specific grooming needs associated with that breed to ensure you can adequately care for their coat maintenance requirements.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The drooling tendency of a breed can vary significantly. Some breeds are more prone to drooling, while others are relatively dry-mouthed. If you are someone who prefers a clean and tidy environment, breeds that have a tendency to drool excessively may not be the ideal choice for you. Dogs that leave ropes of slobber on your arm or create big wet spots on your clothes may not align with your preferences. Before selecting a breed, it's important to consider this factor to ensure compatibility with your cleanliness preferences and lifestyle.
COAT TYPE +
Wiry, Smooth, Double
COAT LENGTH +
Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of welcoming a breed is towards strangers can vary. Certain breeds tend to be more reserved or cautious around strangers, regardless of the location. They may take time to warm up and feel comfortable in the presence of unfamiliar individuals. On the other hand, some breeds are generally more open and happy to meet new people whenever they encounter them. It's important to note that individual dogs within a breed can still exhibit variations in their behavior towards strangers based on their socialization, training, and temperament.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The enthusiasm a breed exhibits for play can remain intact long after their puppyhood stage. While some breeds possess a lasting interest in games like tug-of-war or fetch throughout their adult lives, others are more inclined to find joy in leisurely moments, preferring to relax on the couch alongside you.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Some breeds have a natural tendency to be more alert and vigilant when it comes to detecting potential threats or the presence of strangers. These breeds are more likely to react and notify their owners when they sense anything unusual, such as the arrival of the mailman or the presence of a squirrel outside the window. However, it's important to note that while these breeds may be more vigilant, their reactions can vary. Some breeds may be more inclined to bark or vocalize, while others may exhibit other forms of alertness, such as increased attentiveness or protective behaviors. In general, with proper socialization and acceptance by the family, these breeds can warm up to strangers who enter the house.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to change encompasses adjustments in living conditions, noise levels, weather patterns, daily schedules, and various other aspects of daily life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training your dog and their willingness to learn new things can vary greatly among different breeds. Some breeds are naturally inclined to make their owners proud and eagerly embrace learning, while others prioritize their own desires and may be more resistant to training.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The exercise and mental stimulation requirements vary for each breed. High-energy breeds are always enthusiastic and eager to embark on new adventures. They thrive on activities like running, jumping, and playing, which they can engage in throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds tend to be more relaxed and content with lounging around and taking frequent naps, resembling couch potatoes in their disposition.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency at which this particular breed expresses itself through vocalizations, whether it be in the form of barks or howls, varies. While certain breeds tend to bark at anything that passes by or a bird appearing outside the window, there are others that only bark in specific circumstances. It's worth noting that certain breeds that don't bark can still find alternative ways to communicate their thoughts and feelings through various sounds.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The mental stimulation required to keep a breed happy and healthy varies, particularly for purpose-bred dogs. These dogs often have jobs that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, and other qualities. Without adequate mental exercise, they will seek out activities to keep their minds occupied, which may not align with the preferences of their owners. It is crucial to provide them with appropriate mental challenges and activities to prevent them from creating their own potentially undesirable projects.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection a breed is expected to show towards its family members or familiar individuals varies. Certain breeds may seem distant towards everyone besides their owner, whereas other breeds treat everyone they know as their closest companion.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

A breed's tolerance and patience with children can vary. It is essential to supervise dogs around young children or any child who has limited exposure to dogs. Some breeds are known for their family-friendly nature and tend to have a higher level of tolerance and patience with children's behavior. However, each dog is an individual and their temperament and behavior can still depend on their training, socialization, and past experiences.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The friendliness of a breed towards other dogs can vary. It is important to supervise and carefully introduce dogs to one another regardless of the breed. However, some breeds tend to be more naturally inclined to get along with other dogs, both in domestic settings and in public environments.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair a breed sheds can vary significantly. Breeds that have high shedding tendencies often require more frequent brushing to manage the shedding and minimize loose hair. Additionally, high-shedding breeds are more likely to trigger allergies in sensitive individuals and may require more diligent cleaning, such as consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling, to maintain cleanliness in the living environment. However, it's worth noting that regular grooming and proper care can help minimize shedding in most breeds.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance tasks can vary depending on the breed. It's important to consider your available time, patience, and budget for these grooming efforts. Breeds with longer hair or those prone to matting may require more frequent brushing and may benefit from professional grooming appointments. Dogs with continuously growing hair, such as certain terrier breeds may need regular trimming to maintain their coat's appearance. However, all breeds require regular nail trimming to prevent discomfort or issues with mobility. Before selecting a breed, it's crucial to research and understand the specific grooming needs associated with that breed to ensure you can adequately care for their coat maintenance requirements.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The drooling tendency of a breed can vary significantly. Some breeds are more prone to drooling, while others are relatively dry-mouthed. If you are someone who prefers a clean and tidy environment, breeds that have a tendency to drool excessively may not be the ideal choice for you. Dogs that leave ropes of slobber on your arm or create big wet spots on your clothes may not align with your preferences. Before selecting a breed, it's important to consider this factor to ensure compatibility with your cleanliness preferences and lifestyle.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Wiry, Smooth, Double

COAT SPECTRUM

Medium

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of welcoming a breed is towards strangers can vary. Certain breeds tend to be more reserved or cautious around strangers, regardless of the location. They may take time to warm up and feel comfortable in the presence of unfamiliar individuals. On the other hand, some breeds are generally more open and happy to meet new people whenever they encounter them. It's important to note that individual dogs within a breed can still exhibit variations in their behavior towards strangers based on their socialization, training, and temperament.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The enthusiasm a breed exhibits for play can remain intact long after their puppyhood stage. While some breeds possess a lasting interest in games like tug-of-war or fetch throughout their adult lives, others are more inclined to find joy in leisurely moments, preferring to relax on the couch alongside you.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Some breeds have a natural tendency to be more alert and vigilant when it comes to detecting potential threats or the presence of strangers. These breeds are more likely to react and notify their owners when they sense anything unusual, such as the arrival of the mailman or the presence of a squirrel outside the window. However, it's important to note that while these breeds may be more vigilant, their reactions can vary. Some breeds may be more inclined to bark or vocalize, while others may exhibit other forms of alertness, such as increased attentiveness or protective behaviors. In general, with proper socialization and acceptance by the family, these breeds can warm up to strangers who enter the house.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to change encompasses adjustments in living conditions, noise levels, weather patterns, daily schedules, and various other aspects of daily life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training your dog and their willingness to learn new things can vary greatly among different breeds. Some breeds are naturally inclined to make their owners proud and eagerly embrace learning, while others prioritize their own desires and may be more resistant to training.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The exercise and mental stimulation requirements vary for each breed. High-energy breeds are always enthusiastic and eager to embark on new adventures. They thrive on activities like running, jumping, and playing, which they can engage in throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds tend to be more relaxed and content with lounging around and taking frequent naps, resembling couch potatoes in their disposition.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Likes To Be Vocal

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The mental stimulation required to keep a breed happy and healthy varies, particularly for purpose-bred dogs. These dogs often have jobs that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, and other qualities. Without adequate mental exercise, they will seek out activities to keep their minds occupied, which may not align with the preferences of their owners. It is crucial to provide them with appropriate mental challenges and activities to prevent them from creating their own potentially undesirable projects.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Brindle	057
Cream	076
Gray	100
Gray Brindle	107
Red	140
Red Brindle	148
Silver	176
Wheaten	224
Cream Brindle	255
Black	007
Black Brindle	279
Red Wheaten	156
Silver Brindle	303
Wheaten Brindle	304
Silver Wheaten	305

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Black Points	019
Black Mask	004
Black Markings	002

About The Breed

Cairn Terriers are originally bred to fearlessly hunt and track small, furred prey, particularly foxes, in the rugged Scottish countryside. These happy and active little dogs possess a curious and alert nature and enjoy having an area where they can explore and engage in digging. The key characteristics of Cairn Terriers, referred to as 'Cairnishness,' include a wide and short head, a short-legged body that is both strong and agile, reaching a height of approximately 10 inches and length of 15 inches. They have a double coat with a harsh and wiry top layer and a soft, downy undercoat. Cairn Terriers have a distinctive appearance, appearing as small, shaggy, and alert dogs. They carry themselves proudly with their head, tail and ears up and their eyes reflect their intelligence. The breed is highly regarded as the "best little pal in the world" by a British breed club. Cairn Terriers are compact enough to be lap dogs, providing cozy snuggles and sturdy enough to enjoy playful activities on the lawn. They thrive when they have plenty of close interaction with their family. If you value the terrier attributes such as bravery, independent thinking, and unwavering loyalty, no other breed will be as suitable as the Cairn Terrier.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A CAIRN TERRIER

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Cairn Terrier: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Cairn Terriers are known to be generally healthy dogs, and conscientious breeders take the initiative to test their breeding stock for any potential health disorders. These responsible breeders also maintain regular communication with other dedicated breeders, collaborating to ensure the overall health and preservation of the breed's distinctive qualities. By working together, they contribute to the well-being of Cairn Terriers and the continuation of their unique traits for future generations. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Patella Evaluation Kidney Ultrasound for Missing Kidney (Aplasia) or Deformed Kidney (dysplasia) Liver Portosystemic Vascular Anomaly (PSVA) and Microvascular Dysplasia (MVD) Ocular Melanosis (OM) Eye Exam Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy (Terrier) (GLD) - DNA Test Cardiac Exam

Grooming

	Cairn Terriers are known to be generally healthy dogs, and conscientious breeders take the initiative to test their breeding stock for any potential health disorders. These responsible breeders also maintain regular communication with other dedicated breeders, collaborating to ensure the overall health and preservation of the breed's distinctive qualities. By working together, they contribute to the well-being of Cairn Terriers and the continuation of their unique traits for future generations.

Exercise

	Cairn Terriers require a moderate amount of exercise and have the ability to adapt well to different living environments as long as they receive daily outings. They can flourish in settings ranging from a rural farm in the Highlands to an urban high-rise apartment and are considered excellent all-around dogs. Engaging them in dog sports training is highly beneficial, as it provides an ideal outlet for their energy. Cairn Terriers can exercise both their body and mind by participating in a wide range of activities such as obedience training, tracking, herding, agility, earthdog events, coursing ability tests, and more. These activities not only keep them physically active but also foster a strong bond between the dog and owner, enabling them to enjoy these experiences together

Training

	Cairn Terriers are highly intelligent and have a deep affection for their families. However, due to their independent nature, they may attempt to test the limits set by their owners. Consequently, obedience training is essential to establish boundaries and maintain control. While Cairns are quick learners, their instinct to dig and chase small animals may persist, so it is important for new owners to be prepared for these behaviors. Early socialization and enrolling in puppy training classes are highly recommended as they contribute to the development of a well-rounded and well-behaved companion. These measures help ensure that the Cairn Terrier grows up to be a properly adjusted and obedient member of the family.

Nutrition

	To ensure optimal nutrition, Cairn Terriers should be fed a high-quality dog food, whether it is commercially manufactured or prepared at home with the guidance and approval of a veterinarian. It is important to select a diet that is appropriate for the dog's specific life stage, whether they are a puppy, adult, or senior. Some Cairn Terriers have a tendency to gain weight, so it is crucial to monitor their calorie intake and maintain a healthy weight level. While treats can be useful for training purposes, excessive indulgence can lead to obesity, so moderation is key. It is essential to familiarize yourself with which human foods are safe for dogs and which are not. Consulting with a vet is recommended if there are any concerns regarding the dog's weight or diet. Additionally, clean and fresh water should be accessible to the Cairn Terrier at all times to ensure proper hydration.

Historiography

The Cairn Terrier is part of a group of terrier breeds that played a vital role in patrolling game preserves and farms in Scotland for many centuries. These breeds shared the name "Scotch terriers" for a long time making it challenging to unravel their individual histories. It wasn't until the late 1800s that dedicated breed enthusiasts developed strict breeding programs and classifications to distinguish the various terrier types. Although the name "Cairn Terrier" was not documented until 1887, this type of terrier had existed for a considerable period.

Cairn Terriers were predominantly found in the Western Highlands of Scotland particularly on the Isle of Skye, which is also the birthplace of their relative, the Skye Terrier. In Scotland, a heap of stones used as a boundary or grave marker was known as a "cairn." Rodents would often inhabit and dwell beneath these rock piles on Highland game preserves. The Cairn Terrier, being one of the smaller go-to-ground terriers was specifically bred to dig into cairns and flush out these pests. They also worked in packs to confront and hunt larger prey such as foxes and otters. The Cairn's independence, bravery, toughness, and keen alertness were qualities that made them excel at digging into cairns alone and confronting sharp-toothed mammals.

In the early 20th century, terrier fanciers in Britain differentiated and bred Cairn, Scottish, Skye, and West Highland White terriers as distinct pure breeds. Cairn Terriers were exhibited at dog shows in Britain during that time and the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed in 1913.

The public recognition of Cairn Terriers received a significant boost in 1939 when a Cairn named Terry was chosen to portray Toto in MGM's famous film production of "The Wizard of Oz." This popular portrayal further increased the breed's visibility and popularity.