Cairn Terriers 101

Terrier group

The Cairn Terrier, like other Scottish Terrier breeds, is a determined character that never backs down from a challenge. Developed to be vermin-hunters, they are not typically safe around small pets such as hamsters. They love their families and are playful and impish, but not particularly fond of strangers or other dogs.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about Cairn Terriers

Bright, active dogs up for anything

Energy level
Energy LevelEnergy Level
Bark level
  • bark-very-vocalVery vocal
  • bark-talkativeTalkative
  • bark-as-neededAs needed
Size
9.5 to 10 inches tall
Group Size Small
Lifespan
13 to 15 years
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Weight
13 to 14 lbs
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Mature adult Cairn Terrier

6 years to 9 years

Risk level for common Cairn Terrier conditions

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Diabetes mellitus

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Urinary bladder stones

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Liver disease

Senior Cairn Terrier

10+ years

Risk level for common Cairn Terrier conditions

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Diabetes mellitus

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Gallbladder disease

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Cushings disease

Cairn Terrier puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Cairn Terrier conditions

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Gastroenteritis

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Foreign body ingestion

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Conjunctivitis

Young adult Cairn Terrier

7 months to 5 years

Risk level for common Cairn Terrier conditions

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Ear infection

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Luxated patella

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Trauma

Mature adult Cairn Terrier

6 years to 9 years

Risk level for common Cairn Terrier conditions

risk-level-bar

Diabetes mellitus

risk-level-bar

Urinary bladder stones

risk-level-bar

Liver disease

Senior Cairn Terrier

10+ years

Risk level for common Cairn Terrier conditions

risk-level-bar

Diabetes mellitus

risk-level-bar

Gallbladder disease

risk-level-bar

Cushings disease

Cairn Terrier puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Cairn Terrier conditions

risk-level-bar

Gastroenteritis

risk-level-bar

Foreign body ingestion

risk-level-bar

Conjunctivitis

Young adult Cairn Terrier

7 months to 5 years

Risk level for common Cairn Terrier conditions

risk-level-bar

Ear infection

risk-level-bar

Luxated patella

risk-level-bar

Trauma

2-Cairn terrier standing up GettyImages-498953372

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Mask Group 77

In the classic movie, "The Wizard of Oz," Toto is played by a female Cairn Terrier named Terry.

Cairn Terrier coat care and colors

The wiry coat of the Cairn Terrier is one of the easier classic terrier coats to keep in shape. Regular brushing will help to remove any loose or damaged fur. While Cairns, like other small terriers, are traditionally and painstakingly "hand-stripped" of their outer coats, this is rarely done outside of the show world these days.

How often should I bathe my Cairn Terrier?

Cairn Terriers can be bathed monthly, weekly or as needed (if they roll in mud, for example!). Use a pet-specific shampoo and conditioner or an all-in-one product. If your dog’s coat or skin isn’t looking healthy, check with your veterinary healthcare team to see what might be causing the problem.

Should I take my Cairn Terrier to a professional groomer?

For ease of maintenance, many Cairn Terriers are kept clipped short. A metal pin brush, slicker and metal comb will take care of your Cairn's coat between professional groomings.

What kind of coat does my Cairn Terrier have?

The Cairn Terrier has a wiry double coat, similar to other terriers.

Cairn Terrier exercise & training

Loves walks

Exercise level

The Cairn Terrier is an active breed that will still hunt down any mice daring to show their faces in the house. These tough little dogs will take as much exercise as you can give them, but because of their short legs, they will be satisfied with long, brisk walks.

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Trainability

As with other small terriers, Cairns do not lack intelligence, but they prefer to do things their way, not yours. Get an early start on manners and socialization with positive training and boundary-setting. Teach good nail-trim behavior early to prevent future struggles.

Cairn Terrier fun facts

Top girl names for Cairn Terriers

100%

of Cairn Terriers are female

0%

of Cairn Terriers are male

Top boy names for Cairn Terriers

Nationwide loves Cairn Terriers of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Cairn Terriers

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