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Cairn Terrier
Puppies for Sale
Cairn Terrier
Pepper
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Pronunciation |
Cairn Terrier |
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Description |
The Cairn Terrier has a fox-like expression. This
peppy, very hardy little terrier has an abundant shaggy outer coat with a soft
downy undercoat. The coat comes in red, brindle, blackish, sand and various
shades of gray. Any color except white is acceptable, though dark points (ears,
eyes and muzzle) are preferred. Adult coat color is hard to predict from the
puppy coat as the color often continues to change for several years. The Cairn
Terrier has a compact body, about 14 inches from the forechest to back of the
hindquarters. It is short with good bone structure. The head is broad with bushy
topknot and eyebrows and black nose. It has a powerful but not heavy muzzle, a
scissors bite and a wide, robust skull. The dark hazel eyes are deep set. The
ears are small, pointy and erect. The short hairy tail is carried gaily. Faults
to avoid are missing teeth, pinkish nose, white on the chest or feet and soft or
curly body coat. |
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Temperament |
The Cairn Terrier is a spirited, hardy, restless
little busybody. Alert, loyal, merry, lovable
and mischievous. They are somewhat independent, but friendly. Females tend to be
more independent than males and some breeders feel that males are more
affectionate. They are very curious, fearless and bold. They are easily trained
and like to do tricks. Naturally patient with children and very playful. Cairns
adapt well to their new homes. They are sensitive, and need firm, but not harsh,
training and discipline. Without the proper leadership, the Cairn can become
destructive and/or bark excessively. Cairns like to dig searching for vermin, so
it is not wise to leave them unsupervised in a landscaped yard! This breed can
be a chaser and should not be left off its lead in an unsecured area. Do not allow this little dog to fall into the, Small Dog Syndrome, human induced behaviors, where they believe they are pack leader to humans. Cairn's who are allowed to fall into this type of behavior, will develop all types of varying degrees of behavior problems, including, but not limited to separation anxiety, snapping, growling and guarding. |
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Height, Weight |
Height: Dogs 10-13 inches (25-33
cm) Bitches 9-12 inches (23-30 cm)
Weight: Dogs 14-18 pounds (6-8 kg) Bitches
13-17 pounds (6-8 kg) |
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Health Problems |
Do not over feed the Cairn for it tends to gain
weight easily. Treats should be limited, even though the dog may be almost
irresistible when begging. Cairns tend to be allergic to fleas. |
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Living Conditions |
The Cairn Terrier will do okay in an apartment if
it is sufficiently exercised. It is very active indoors and will do okay without
a yard. |
Exercise |
These are active little dogs,
who need a daily walk.
Play will take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all
breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs who do not get
to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. They will
also enjoy a good romp in a safe open area off lead, such as a large fenced in
yard. |
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Life Expectancy |
About 12-15 years. |
Grooming |
That shaggy "natural" looking coat
actually takes quite a bit of maintenance and a neglected coat soon becomes
a sorry, matted mess. Brush several times a week, being gentle with the
soft undercoat. Once a month, bathe the dog and brush the coat while it dries.
Trim around the eyes and ears with blunt-nosed scissors and clip the nails
regularly. The Cairn sheds little to no hair. |
Origin |
This dog, known since 1500, was first publicly
presented in 1909 and became popular after 1930. The Cairn is one of Scotland's
original Terriers, probably a contributor to today's Scottish, West Highland
White and Skye Terrier breeds. Named for the piles of small stones used to mark
Scottish farm borders and graves, the Cairn Terrier's job was to rout small
animals from their lairs in these stone piles. Though used for such purposes for
centuries, the Cairn Terrier is now primarily a companion dog. He also excels at
Terrier (Go-To-Ground) trials. Everyone remembers a Cairn called
"Toto" in the film "The Wizard of Oz." Some of the Cairn's
talents are hunting, tracking, watchdogging, agility, competitive obedience, and
performing tricks. |
| Group |
Terrier, AKC Terrier |
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Recognition |
CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC,
CET, APRI, ACR |
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CKC = Continental
Kennel Club
FCI = Fédération
Cynologique Internationale
AKC = American
Kennel Club
UKC = United Kennel
Club
KCGB = Kennel
Club of Great Britain
CKC = Canadian
Kennel Club
ANKC = Australian
National Kennel Club
NKC = National
Kennel Club
NZKC = New Zealand
Kennel Club
CET = Club
Español de Terriers (Spanish Terrier Club)
APRI = American Pet Registry
Inc.
ACR = American Canine Registry |
Cairn Terrier Posters and Prints!
Whitty-Sue, the Cairn Terrier at 3 years old
Rusty at 10 ½ months
Cairn Terrier Pictures 1
Cairn Terrier Pictures 2
Cairn Terrier Pictures 3
Small Dogs vs Medium and Large Dogs
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