The Cairn Terrier: A Lively and Loyal Family Pet

Are you looking for a small, scrappy, and spunky companion? The Cairn Terrier might be the perfect breed for you! This Scottish breed is known for its shaggy coat and independent personality.

Breed	Height	Family Friendly	Grooming Period	Shed	Exercise (minutes per day)	Training	Nutrition	Potential Health Issues	Life Span
Cairn Terrier	Small	Yes	Weekly	Yes	30	Moderate	High-quality dry food	Patellar luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, cataracts	12-15 years

 

History

The Cairn Terrier is a Scottish breed with a long history. They were developed to hunt small wildlife like foxes and badgers. The name derives from the stone heaps, or cairns, that marked the locations of these creatures. The Cairn Terrier is one of the oldest terrier breeds.

Temperament

The Cairn Terrier is a lively and energetic dog who enjoys playing. They are noted for their brilliance and independence, which can cause them to be stubborn at times. They are extremely loving and loyal to their families. Cairn Terriers get along well with youngsters but can be suspicious of strangers and other dogs.

Care

The Cairn Terrier has a shaggy coat that requires regular grooming. They do shed, but not excessively. They are a healthy breed with only a few inherited health issues. Cairn Terriers require moderate activity, but they are not as energetic as some other terrier breeds. They are adaptable and can do well in apartments or houses with yards.

Fun Facts

• The Cairn Terrier is named after the piles of stones, or cairns

• Cairn Terriers were popularized by the 1939 movie “The Wizard of Oz,” in which Toto was played by a Cairn Terrier named Terry.

• Cairn Terriers are known for their bravery and were used as messenger dogs during World War I.