Cairn Terrier: An active and courageous dog with a big heart
Cairn Terrier: An active and courageous dog with a big heart
Written by Silvia Capelli
November 26, 2023
Welcome to the fascinating world of the Cairn Terrier, the small dog with the courage of a giant. This breed, known for its fearless spirit and exuberant personality, has much more to offer than its modest stature might suggest.
Originating from Scotland, the Cairn Terrier is a dog full of energy, intelligence, and affection, and can be an ideal companion for owners with various lifestyles.
In this blog, we will explore together the characteristics that make the Cairn Terrier a unique and original breed.
From its fascinating history to its grooming needs, through its playful behavior and unexpected skills, we will delve into the world of this exciting dog.
Whether you're a lifelong dog lover or considering welcoming a Cairn Terrier into your family, this post will provide you with all the necessary information to fully understand and appreciate these wonderful dogs.
History of the Cairn Terrier
The Cairn Terrier boasts a history older than many other native Scottish dog breeds.
Considered one of the oldest dogs native to this land, it is believed to have been the progenitor of other famous short-legged Scottish breeds, such as the Scottish Terrier, the Skye Terrier, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, and the West Highland White Terrier.
It is known that since the 14th century there were a great variety of terrier-type dogs living in Scotland, especially in the Highlands, but only in the early 1800s did they begin to differentiate into specific breeds with their own physical and behavioral characteristics.
Experts believe that the Cairn Terrier may have existed as a distinct breed as early as the 15th century, both on the Isle of Skye and in the Scottish Highlands, although initially it was called the "Short-haired Skye Terrier".
These sturdy terriers were used by farmers and hunters to keep away wild animals and pests such as foxes, badgers, otters, rabbits, and rats.
These dogs, working in packs, demonstrated courage, tenacity, and endurance. In some cases, specific groups of Cairn Terriers were so bold that they could only be handled by their owners.
In the 1600s, during his reign, King James I and VI (king of Scotland as James VI and of England and Ireland as James I), sent some of these "earth dogs" to the King of France, considering them extremely valuable.
Among the first breeders of Cairn Terriers were Farquhar Kelly of Drumfearn, on the Isle of Skye, and Captain Martin MacLeod of Drynock, a well-known otter hunter.
Around the second half of the 19th century, the short-legged Scottish Terriers began to become quite popular, but the Cairn Terrier was the least appreciated, perhaps due to its rustic appearance and unconventional coat.
Before 1893 Cairn Terriers were identified as Scottish Terriers, while that year the breed was split into two separate categories, the Skye Terriers and the Dandie Dinmont Terriers.
At that time no one cared about preserving the physical characteristics of the breed, as the Cairn Terrier was just a working and hunting dog for small animals, and no one cared what it looked like.
It was at the beginning of the 1900s that the Skye Terrier breed was again divided from those of the West Highland White Terrier, the Cairn Terrier, and the Scottish Terrier.
It was only after the breed standards were registered by the Kennel Club in 1910 that the Cairn Terrier saw an increase in its spread, but the two wars did not allow it to have the success it deserved.
Its moment of greatest popularity was actually in 1939, thanks to the release of the first edition of the film version of The Wizard of Oz, where a female specimen named Terry was used for the part of Toto (and later starred in another 16 films).
Today, although not on the Kennel Club's list of endangered breeds, the Cairn Terrier is at risk of disappearing.
Cairn Terrier: An active and courageous dog with a big heart at a glance
Good with children 85%
Friendly with animals 85%
Protective 54%
Easy to train 83%
Needs exercise 100%
Friendly with strangers 75%
Character of the Cairn Terrier
The Cairn Terrier, one of Scotland's oldest terrier breeds, is a small dog with a surprisingly large personality.
Famous for its lively spirit and independent nature, the Cairn Terrier is an ideal companion for those looking for an independent and energetic dog, yet one that demonstrates affection and devotion.
The Cairn Terrier adapts well to apartment living, thanks to its small size and adaptable nature.
However, it is important to remember that this breed needs regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
This terrier is generally tolerant and good with children, especially if raised with them.
It is important, however, to teach children to interact respectfully with the dog and to supervise their interactions, as its patience is not infinite.
It tends to be friendly even with strangers, although it may show some reserve when first meeting them.
With other animals, the Cairn can be somewhat dominant, especially with other male dogs, but good socialization from puppyhood can help mitigate these behaviors.
However, some attention is needed if there are small pets such as rabbits or hamsters in the home, which it might identify as prey.
The Cairn Terrier is intelligent and can be trained with relative ease, but its independent nature requires a consistent and patient approach.
It responds well to training based on positive reinforcement and loves challenges that stimulate its mind.
It is very self-assured, a trait that leads it to be somewhat stubborn and rebellious, so it should be taught from puppyhood to respect the authority of the pack leader.
This breed has a high energy level and requires daily exercise. Regular walks, games, and mental stimulation activities are essential to keep the Cairn Terrier happy and in shape.
This dog is not generally aggressive, but it can show determination and courage if provoked.
Like many terriers, the Cairn has a strong hunting instinct and may tend to chase small animals. This behavior can be managed with proper training and careful supervision.
It is not known to be a biting dog, but it is always wise to monitor interactions with strangers and other animals.
Like all Terriers, it tends to bark when on guard and loves to dig, so be careful with pots and gardens.
In conclusion, the Cairn Terrier is a charming and lively dog, perfect for those looking for an active and affectionate companion.
With the right combination of exercise, training, and love, the Cairn Terrier can be a wonderful member of the family.
Curiosities about the Cairn Terrier
The name "Cairn" comes from these dogs' great skill in finding prey hidden among cairns (piles of stones used as memorials or boundaries).
In the movie "The Wizard of Oz," the little dog Toto was played by a Cairn Terrier, which was actually a female. In the book, Toto is described as a small black dog with long, silky hair, and the illustrations often portray him inappropriately, leading to confusion with a Scottish Terrier.
Despite many not immediately recognizing the breed, Cairn Terriers have appeared in many films, especially in the '30s and '40s, and have acted alongside very famous actors. There is even a website dedicated to them: cairnterriermovies.com.
Characteristics of the Cairn Terrier
Note: These are the standards set by FCI and ENCI and are therefore valid for Europe. Size, color, or coat standards accepted by the AKC or other federations, such as the Canadian one, may differ. For more information, check the standards of the country you are interested in.
The photos on this site may represent both FCI standards and those of the AKC or other federations.
ENCI F.C.I Standards
Group 3 Terrier
Section 2 Small-sized Terriers (Short-legged)
Without working trial
Dimensions
There is only one standard size, and the dimensions are the same for both males and females:
Height at the withers 28-31 cm, weight 6-7.5 kg
Type of Coat
The coat must be short, soft, and dense. The outer coat of the Cairn Terrier must be double, abundant, rough but not coarse, while the undercoat must be short, soft, and dense. A slight waviness is allowed and it must be weather-resistant.
Colors
The coat can be in many shades of color:
Cream, wheat, red, gray, or nearly black.
Brindling is acceptable in all color varieties. Pure black, pure white, or blackand tan are not allowed, while dark shadings on ears and muzzle are very typical.
Head
Small but well-proportioned and covered with hair, with a broad skull and marked stop, black nose, and dark eyes slightly sunken. The jaw closes in a scissor bite and the ears are pointed and carried high.
Body
Horizontal, medium length, with well-defined ribs. The legs are short.
Tail
Short, proportionate, provided with hair but without fringes, not curved towards the back.
To learn more about the physical characteristics of the Cairn Terrier, read the official ENCI sheet.
How Long Does the Cairn Terrier Live?
The Cairn Terrier has a life expectancy of 12-15 years. The longest-lived Cairn Terrier recorded to date is Toddy the Terrier, a Scottish specimen that lived for 22 years and a few months.
Diseases of the Cairn Terrier
The Cairn Terrier is a naturally healthy and robust dog, but it can suffer from hereditary diseases common to these types of dogs and the normal diseases of dogs. Among the most frequent:
Otitis: This ear inflammation is common in Cairn Terriers, often due to their dense fur which can retain moisture and debris in the ears, creating an ideal environment for infections.
Congenital Deafness: Some Cairn Terriers may be born deaf or develop early deafness. This condition can be hereditary and requires special attention in the care of the dog. Read here if you suspect your dog is deaf!
Food and Fur Allergies, Atopic Dermatitis: These dogs can suffer from food allergies that cause itching and skin irritation. Atopic dermatitis, a chronic skin condition, is also common and can be triggered by environmental allergens.
Hip Dysplasia: This hereditary disease causes abnormal formation of the hip joint, which can lead to lameness and arthritis.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: This degenerative eye condition leads to progressive vision loss and can lead to blindness.
Patellar Luxation: Common in small dogs, this condition occurs when the kneecap is not properly aligned, causing lameness or difficulty in walking.
Pulmonary Fibrosis: A disease that affects the lungs, making them less elastic and efficient in the breathing process. The Cairn Terrier is prone to this pathology and other non-cardiac pulmonary diseases, as explained in this study.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy: This heart disease causes a weakening of the heart muscle, limiting its ability to pump blood effectively.
Hypothyroidism: A condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, leading to symptoms such as weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems.
Legg-Calve-Perthes Syndrome: A degenerative disease of the femur bone, which can cause pain and lameness.
Aortic Stenosis: This heart disease is characterized by the narrowing of the aorta artery, which can limit blood flow from the heart.
Renal Amyloidosis: A hereditary degeneration of the kidneys, which can lead to kidney failure.
Arthritis: Like in many dogs, arthritis can develop with age, causing pain and stiffness in the joints.
Feeding Your Cairn Terrier
Cairn Terriers are generally healthy dogs but are prone to weight gain, especially if they do not get enough exercise.
Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to what to feed your dog and avoid future problems such as obesity, to which it is predisposed, diabetes, and cholesterol.
Feeding the Puppy
Weaning of the Cairn Terrier begins around 4 weeks of age. From the first month of life, you can start introducing junior first months feed or fine ground meat, starting with one meal a day in combination with mother's milk.
Between the first and second month, meals based on solid food should be administered about 3/4 times a day, and three times from the second month of life.
Feeding the Cairn Terrier
The Cairn Terrier is a gourmet with an insatiable appetite. Being a small dog, it is advisable to administer two meals a day to prevent the dog from feeling hungry for too many hours and overeating when provided with the only daily meal.
Meals must be balanced and contain the right amount of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and minerals.
Dry Dog Food (Kibble)
The simplest way to ensure not overfeeding the animal is to provide good quality dry food, adhering to the recommended doses for weight and age.
Choose one designed for small dogs with the right characteristics for the breed (generic food for small terriers is indicated).
Always check the ingredients and especially the supply of vitamins and minerals, essential for keeping our dogs in shape.
Using wet food as the only alternative is not advisable, but a small amount can be added to make dry food more palatable.
Homemade Diet for Dogs
If you do not want to feed commercial food and want to cook for your dog, the most suitable choice for preparing homemade dog food falls on primary products to be mainly served boiled.
Meals must contain carbohydrates, proteins, and vegetables in the right balance and be administered in the correct dose based on weight and energy expenditure.
To learn more about how to feed your friend in the healthiest and tastiest way, read our guides:
How to Change Your Dog's Diet Without Drama and in a Few Days
Homemade Diet for Dogs, for a Natural and Personalized Diet
How Much Should a Dog Eat? And How Many Times a Day?
Grooming of the Cairn Terrier
Cairn Terriers do not require excessive efforts in terms of hair cutting and styling. They are low-maintenance dogs, requiring only some special attention to keep them tidy.
They don't need frequent visits to the groomer, but they do require general maintenance to prevent knots and keep them neat.
Aside from stripping, it's possible to successfully groom a Cairn Terrier at home. To do it correctly, follow these steps:
Products
First, make sure you have all the necessary products:
Medium wire dog brush
Medium-sized dog carder
Gentle shampoo for long-haired dogs (or specific shampoo for dark coats)
Detangling conditioner
Leave-in detangler to facilitate brushing (and perhaps dry shampoo for use between washes)
Electric dog nail fileor clippers
Eye wipes or stain remover
Ear cleansing wipes, or earwax dissolving cleaner
Finger tooth wipes if your dog resists brushing
Grooming kit with blower or hairdryer, or try a drying brush, which is very handy
Light dog clippers for trimming, if you decide to do some touch-ups
Brushing
Rule number 1 for grooming a Cairn Terrier: Brush, Brush, Brush! This coat needs to be brushed two or three times a week to avoid knots and tangles. It's better to use a carder that reaches the thick undercoat and also cares for the rough top coat. Some owners prefer a comb to detangle knots or a wire brush, though the latter could damage the coat if used too forcefully.
Bath
If not strictly necessary, it's recommended to bathe this breed only every 2-3 months due to their waterproof double coat. This is to avoid stripping the coat of its natural protective oils. For optimal results, choose a specific shampoo for hard-coated breeds, but any good-quality shampoo will do. Start by placing cotton balls in the dog's ears. Wet the coat with lukewarm water, being careful not to use water that's too hot or cold. Apply the shampoo gently, avoiding eyes, ears, and nose. Rinse well to remove any products that could irritate the dog's skin.
Drying
After the bath, dry your Cairn Terrier with a warm towel (saving time on drying!) and then use a blower or hairdryer on a low setting to avoid scalding the dog's skin. If it's very warm, after blotting, you can let it air dry, but ensure it doesn't remain damp, as small dogs can easily get cold.
Finishing the Grooming
Don't forget the nails! Long nails are not only very uncomfortable for dogs but can break and cause painful accidents.
Keep the hair around the eyes well-trimmed to maintain health and ensure good visibility. Use eye wipes if necessary.
Pay attention to the paws: remove hair between the pads when it gets too long.
Clean the ears: with finger wipes, it'll only take a couple of minutes.
Stripping
There aren't many haircut options for the Cairn Terrier. Since they have a hard outer coat and a soft undercoat, it's generally recommended not to cut too deep, and only to do light trimming as and when necessary. However, it can be useful to subject them to 2 or 3 stripping sessions a year to rid them of dead hair. Stripping is a painless manual operation: special grooming knives are used to remove dead hairs from the coat. This method helps stimulate new hair growth and oil production, giving a new growth impetus to the coat. It also maintains the rough and hard texture of the outer coat and preserves the color of the coat. Given the length of the operation, stripping is usually done by the groomer.
Machine Cutting
Many owners, for economic or practical reasons, opt for a standard cut or trimming to keep the coat neat. However, shaving the coat is discouraged as it tends to change the texture and color of the coat, especially if done multiple times. Better to avoid, or talk to your groomer if you're thinking or forced to choose this option.
Other Tips to Keep Your Cairn Terrier Healthy
It's important to remember to periodically deworm both puppies and adult dogs, especially if adopted from shelters, kennels, or private sellers.
Be aware of seasonal parasites, which can be very dangerous for your friend's health. Make sure to carry out prevention for heartworm, leishmaniasis, fleas, and ticks.
Even if the dog goes out little, the nails should be regularly trimmed to prevent injury when running. Read here to learn how to do it.
This breed is prone to ear canal infections and deafness. Ear cleaning is absolutely necessary to avoid unpleasant odors or pathologies that can also affect the dog's health status.
Remember to periodically check the state of the anal glands to avoid discomfort for the dog and bad smell. For this operation, consult a veterinarian.
It is advisable to perform daily dental cleaning, or at least every two days, to avoid oral cavity problems and premature tooth loss. If you can't manage it, opt for professional dental scaling under sedation when necessary.
Who is the Cairn Terrier Suitable For?
For anyone who wants a cheerful and fun animal, loving with children and generally friendly with cats.
For those looking for a dog to engage in physical activity, and who is not intimidated by bad weather or long walks.
For those who want a companion Terrier that enjoys good health and does not need to be groomed too frequently.
Who is the Cairn Terrier Not Suitable For?
Those with a less active temperament, because the Cairn Terrier is a dog that needs a lot of movement.
For those with intolerant neighbors, as it tends to bark when on guard. And for those who are allergic to dog hair: it is not a hypoallergenic breed, even though it is considered a breed that sheds little hair.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Author’s Note
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