| AKC Group: | Terrier |
| A.K.A.: | N/A |
| Functions: | Companion, Competition |
| Year of Origin: | 1500s |
| Country of Origin: | Scotland |
| Life Span (yr): | 12 - 15 |
| Colors: | Black, Brindle, Cream, Gray, Silver, Wheaten |
| Height (Inch): | 9.5 - 10 |
| Weight (lb): | 13 - 14 |
| Size: | Small |
| Hair Length: | Medium |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: | |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: |  |
| Grooming: | |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: | |
| Living Area: | |
Appearance:
One of the more unusual breeds of dogs is the Cairn Terrier. He is designed to work and does so happily. He is strong but not stocky. He is evenly proportioned. His nose is black and his eyes are usually hazel. They are sunken into his skull and are framed by bushy eyebrows. He has small ears that he holds upright. They end with points and do not have any fringe or feathering. The coat of the Cairn Terrier is rough to the touch and perfect for all weather conditions. It has a soft undercoat that will even keep him warm when the temperatures dip.
Temperament:
A busy little dog that has tons of energy appropriately describes the Cairn Terrier. He is happy and attentive. He loves attention but can also be rather independent. He is willing to befriend most people and animals. He is brave and without fear, but will also be wary, if the situation calls for reservation. He loves to play with children and is quite patient if they are rough-housing with them. The Cairn Terrier loves to show off and without the proper training can try to assert his dominance over his family. If left to his own devices for long, he will get into trouble by digging and barking.
Health:
Typically a very healthy breed of dog, the Cairn Terrier is not prone to many health conditions. Owners must perform their responsibilities as guardians to these wonderful animals to keep them happy and healthy. They must have their vaccinations up to date to reduce the likelihood of disease that could cause serious illnesses or prove fatal. They must also take the Cairn Terrier in for a routine physical – usually once a year. Doing so will help them catch any abnormalities in their physique. Routine blood work will monitor and report whether his all hormone levels are within normal ranges. The Cairn Terrier should eat a high quality of dog food – free from animal by-products, as well.
Maintenance:
The natural appearance of the Cairn Terrier is not as easy to care for as it may seem. In fact, if he is not brushed on a regular basis, he could easily and quickly become matted and knotted. So, it is best to brush him a few times each week. If he receives a bath once a month, that will usually do the trick – any more than that and his coat and skin could dry out. The fur surrounding his eyes and ears should be trimmed, as well. The Cairn Terrier is always on the move – so it is not surprising that he need not go on a walk every day and to play.