Cairn Terrier

Cairn Terrier Facts

Cairn Terrier Information

Cairn Terrier Description:

Cairn Terrier Care & Grooming:

Cairn Terrier Health Problems:

Group:	Terrier
Size:	Small
Life Span:	12-15 years
Height:	Male: 11-13 inches
	Female: 10-12 inches
Weight:	Male: 13-15 lbs
	Female: 12-14 lbs

Coat :	Outercoat is hard, dense & weather resistant Undercoat is short & soft
Gait :	Free and effortless
Color(s) :	Any color except White
Living Area :	Any
Hair Length:	Medium
Exercise Need :	Daily long walk
Recognized By :	(APRI) America Pet Registry, Inc. (CKC) Canadian Kennel Club (FCI) Fï¿½dï¿½ration Cynologique Internationale (AKC) American Kennel Club (UKC) United Kennel Club (KCGB) Kennel Club of Great Britain (CKC) Canadian Kennel Club (ANKC) Australian National Kennel Council (NKC) National Kennel Club (NZKC) New Zealand Kennel Club (CET) (ACR) American Canine Registry (DRA) Dog Registry of America
Date of Origin :	early 1900s
Place of Origin :	Scotland
Todays Use :	Companion Dog
Originally Used :	Hunting Dog
Other Name :

The origin of the Cairn Terrier lies in the Highlands of Scotland. This breed is one of the oldest terrier breeds in Scotland. Originally, it was grouped with the Skye Terrier. However, after oppositions from breeders of Skye Terrier, it was renamed the Cairn Terrier. The breed derives its name from its ability to squirm down into cairns (rock holes where foxes and badgers hide) and bark until the farmer killed the animal. In the olden days, it was used primarily as a hunting dog to hunt small animals. This breed was first recognized by the AKC in 1913.

The Cairn Terrier is a small dog breed with a strong build. It has broad head which is large as compared to the body; a small but strong muzzle; deep set eyes which are hazel or dark hazel in color; small sized ears which are carried erect; a black nose; dark lips with teeth which meet in an even bite or a scissors bite. This breed has a short to medium sized tail which is carried erect and does curl over the back. The breed has short but strong legs with well padded feet. It has a double coat, with a hard and dense outer coat which is weather resistant, and a short and soft undercoat. The coat can be of any color except white.

The Cairn Terrier is a loyal and hard working dog. It is excellent with kids as well as other dogs. However, caution is advised with cats and other small pets as it has a natural tendency to hunt small animals. It is a curious breed with a tendency to dig. Although an easy-going breed, it is a sensitive breed which is slightly difficult to train. A firm but not harsh approach is needed to train it well. Given its innate ability to hunt vermin, it is a good guard dog and an excellent companion dog. The breed adjusts well indoors and thus is well suited to an apartment lifestyle.

The Cairn Terrier sheds very little hair. However, the double coat of the breed requires a lot of grooming to maintain the natural look of the coat. Brushing at least 3-4 times a week using a firm bristle brush is required to maintain a natural looking coat and to avoid matting. Bathing at least once a month is necessary to remove dirt and dead hair. Hair around eyes, ears and paws should be trimmed regularly. Its eyes should be cleaned properly as it tends to eye infections.

It is an active breed which requires regular exercise. A daily long walk is recommended for proper physical and mental well being of the breed. Playing with the dog occasionally is sufficient for proper physical development of the breed. It tends to gain weight quickly so overfeeding should be avoided. Lack of exercise may create behavioral problem in the dog and can also make it overweight.

Grooming:

Shedding:

Energy Level:

Protection:

Watch Dog:

The Cairn Terrier is generally a healthy breed with some health issues like Cataract, Hypothyroidism, hip Dysplasia, Entropion, Ocular Melanosis etc.

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