Cairn Terrier Dog Breed Profile

Quick Stats for the Cairn Terrier Dog Breed

Height (at the shoulders): 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)
Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
AKC Group: Terrier Group – AKC recognized in 1913
Shedding: sheds little to no hair
Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); very active indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Cairn Terrier Dog Breed

The Cairn Terrier is bold, inquisitive, a bit stubborn, but sensitive and affectionate. They are always eager to please their owners. These small dogs have all of the typical characteristics you would expect of terriers.

They are great around children and can tolerate a little rough playing once in a while. They are feisty little dogs and will even try to stand up to much larger dogs. They are very good watchdogs and reserved around strangers and other household pets.

History of the Cairn Terrier Dog Breed

The Cairn Terrier has been around since the 15th Century. They were originally used to hunt badger, fox, and otters. It is believed that the breed got its name because of their great ability to run otters out of the cairns, which were piles of stones used as memorials or landmarks.

These dogs were originally made up of several colors including gray, red, and white. All color variations were considered Scotch Terriers. In 1873, only two dogs were considered a part of the breed, the Skye Terrier and the Dandie Dinmont Terrier breed.

In 1881, the group was further categorized into two additional groups, the Hard-Haired Terrier and the Skye Terrier. Over time the Hard-Haired Terriers were further subdivided into the West Highland White, the Scotch Terrier, and the Cairn Terrier.

The Cairn Terrier officially got its new name in the early 1900s. They became quite popular in England during that time. Eventually, the breed made its way to the United States where their popularity continued to grow.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1913 as a member of the Terrier Group.

The Cairn Terrier Dog Breed Care and Grooming

Although these terriers are small dogs they still require lots of regular exercise. Take them on a long walk daily and play active games with them inside or in a safely enclosed outside area.

The shaggy look typical of Cairn Terriers actually require consistent grooming, if not the coat will become matted and tangled. Their wiry coats need a good brushing several times weekly. You may want to invest in one of the Chris Christensen products. An annual stripping of the coat is also recommended.

The Cairn Terrier sheds little to no hair.