Cairn Terriers
Remember The Famous "Toto" ?

The Cairn Terriers originated centuries ago in the highlands and islands of Scotland and were formerly known as the Short-Haired Skye Terrier. They are counted among the same stock that contributed to the development of the Scottish and West Highland White terriers.

Light and Dark Cairn Terriers in the grass

Nimbu and Pongo, Courtesy Ketterechts

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The Cairn is a working dog breed and his skills are used to evict small animals and vermin from openings in rocky landmarks known as cairns - hence his name.

Cairn-type terriers, or earthdogs, have been around from at least the 1600s, inhabiting the Western Highlands, especially on the Isle of Skye, where the Skye Terrier originated.

It was not until the 20th century, that terrier fanciers began breeding the many varieties of Scottish earthdogs as distinct breeds. Those included the Cairn, Scottish, Skye, and West Highland White terriers. Cairns then began appearing at British dog shows. Subsequently, the the breed was recognized by the AKC in 1913.

Today, the Cairn is a mostly a popular companion and frequent dog show participant, although in Scotland he is also still used for working.

Jaunty and confident, he can best be described as one of the most cute and adorable of the terrier dog breeds as many celebrity owners will agree, including: Matthew McConaughey, Paul McCartney, Michael J. Fox, and Jennifer Aniston, to name a few.

Characteristics of Cairn Terriers

Cairn Terriers are full of personality! They’re bold, energetic, and often have a bit of a mischievous streak. Known for being independent and intelligent, they can sometimes have a "stubborn" side, but they're also loyal and affectionate to their families.

Affectionate but Independent: While Cairns love to be around their people and enjoy cuddling on the couch, they also have a curious streak and will happily entertain themselves with toys or by exploring their environment.

Socialize your Cairn to a variety of situations and people both young and old to help your develop into a friendly and approachable dog with new people.

Energetic & Playful: Cairn Terriers are known for their zest for life. They love a good game of fetch and will happily chase after a ball for hours. They do well with active families who can give them the attention they need.

He likes having a job to do - so you might try teaching him to sniff out his toys and bring them back to the toy box, for example.

He will make a good watchdog, possessing inherent traits of loyalty and fearlessness.

He has the strong terrier drive to chase and dig, so make sure your property is secure around the boundaries to close off any possible escape routes.

If you value your flower beds, keep a close eye on them too!

cream color cairn terrier standing outside

Training

Cairns are quick learners, but they’re also pretty independent. This means they may not always follow commands right away—especially if they're not in the mood! Positive reinforcement is key when training your Cairn Terrier.

Be Consistent: Training a Cairn requires patience and consistency. Start with basic commands like sit, stay, and come. Make sure to reward them with praise or treats when they get it right!

He is intelligent and easy to train if you are as consistent as your dog is tenacious.

Appearance And Grooming

Height: 9-12 inches
Weight: 13-16 lbs.
Color variations: Any color except white. Often seen in Cream, Wheaten, Red and different shades of Gray.

The Cairn presents an alert, almost fox-like expression, with head, tail, and pointed ears. carried erect, and eyes conveying intelligence.

Cairn Terriers have a unique double coat - a dense wiry outer coat and a soft furry undercoat. To avoid mats and tangles and remain in good condition, daily brushing is needed to remove loose hair. A slicker brush is ideal for this.

Unlike soft-coated breeds, Cairns need their coat hand-stripped twice a year to maintain its texture. While hand-stripping might seem like a lot of work, it’s actually better for their coat and gives them that signature scruffy look. It's also a must for show dogs.

Hand-Stripping vs. Clipping: Although clipping is an option, hand-stripping is recommended to keep the coat healthy and textured. If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, look for a groomer who specializes in hand-stripping.

The advantage of hand-stripping is that you will have less shedding. Clipped hair leaves some dead hair remaining in the coat which will fall out around the house on its own. It also changes the hair color over time as well as its resistance to water and dirt.

Regular grooming will keep the Cairn clean. Cairn dogs are prone to skin problems and bathing tends to damage their coat and cause dry skin, so should only be done when absolutely necessary.

Dental issues are common in Cairn Terriers so brush his teeth daily, or at least a couple of times a week. Start while he is very young with a finger brush and enzyme toothpaste for dogs. Likewise for nail trims which need to be done when you hear clicks as he crosses the floor. A dremel is a low stress tool for handling nail care.

Thorough grooming is the key to a beautiful appearance and to retain their Cairnish good looks!

I, Toto: The Autobiography of Terry,
the Dog who was Toto

A fascinating account of this famous Cairn and her tragic beginnings, film career (a dozen movies, including the especially notable one with Judy Garland), and her happy retirement in southern California. Also, Toto, whose real name is Terry and is female, offers the inside scoop on the making of The Wizard of Oz.

Cairn Health

Cairn Terriers are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can have their health concerns. Here are a few common health issues to be aware of that may affect the Cairn during its lifetime:

Patella Luxation: An inherited disorder in which the kneecap pops out of place and can occur in one or both back legs.
Eye conditions including:
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This inherited disease results in vision loss and eventually blindness with no cure. However, genetic screening is available so be sure to ask your breeder about testing when considering a puppy. Cairns are prone to cataracts.
Liver Shunt: An flow of blood from abnormal veins that allows blood from the intestines to bypass the liver.
Hip Dysplasia: This is an inherited condition where the joints don’t develop properly, leading to arthritis and pain. While not all Cairns will develop hip dysplasia, it’s important to ensure they get regular exercise and maintain a healthy weight to prevent strain on their joints.
Kidney Issues: Cairn Terriers are prone to kidney problems as they age, so it's important to have regular vet check-ups to monitor kidney function and ensure your Cairn stays in top shape.
Dental Health: Small dogs like Cairns are also prone to dental issues. Make sure to brush their teeth regularly and provide dental chews to help keep their teeth clean.

The following are health tests are recommended by the Cairn Terrier Club of America:

Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy (GCL)
Liver Portosystemic Vascular Anomaly (PSVA) and Microvascular Dysplasia (MVD)
Portosystemic shunts Kidney Ultrasound for Missing Kidney (aplasia) or Deformed Kidney (dysplasia)
Ocular Melanosis (OM) CERF/CAER Eye Exam
Craniomandibular Osteopathy (CMO)
Cardiac Exam
Patella Exam

With the benefit of good home care, a high quality diet, daily exercise and frequent health checks with a veterinarian, pet parents can expect to enjoy their Cairn Terrier for up to 15 years.

Activity Level of Cairns

Cairn Terriers are very active inside the home. They are the type of dog that likes to know what's going on and will follow you around to make sure they don't miss anything!

Cairns love exercise and walks. They are important for their mental as well as physical well-being. A couple of twenty minute walks daily should be adequate to meet their needs, but they have the stamina to enjoy long walks or hikes.

Agility training is a great sport for the energetic Cairn while enjoying a fun time with him.

Living Space

Not fussy about space and can do well in either apartment or house, but it's a good idea for the sake of close neighbors, not to leave them alone for very long as they can be barkers.

A small yard where the highly active Cairn can play games, run freely and burn off some of his energy is the ideal. It's also a place to train him without distractions. Just make sure the boundaries are secure as they are burrowers and excellent diggers.

Cairn With Children?

This robust little dog has an excellent reputation with children. Cairn Terriers are sturdy, love to play games and have an instinct to chase. They'll keep up with kids of any age and be gentle with the youngest ones. That said, children should be taught not to tease pets and to play fair.

As with any dog and play activities involving children, it is always best to have adult supervision, no matter what the dog breed's reputation.

Senior or Less Active Homes?

This is a wonderful dog, a naturally loyal and cheerful companion dog for seniors if they can keep up with this very active little terrier.

A Cairn is not a lap dog. He likes to be busy and active. A senior or empty nest family must be able to give him a couple of walks a day, provide obedience training, regular grooming and most of all keep him active.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Cairn

Thinking about getting a Cairn Terrier? Whether you’re adopting from a shelter or buying from a breeder, it’s important to do your research and find a responsible source.

Where to Find Cairn Terriers: You can find Cairn Terriers through breed-specific rescues, shelters, or reputable breeders. Be sure to ask about the dog’s health history, vaccinations, and any potential genetic issues.

Adoption Costs: If you’re adopting, expect to pay an adoption fee that usually ranges from $100 to $300, depending on the rescue organization. If you're purchasing a pedigree puppy from a breeder, prices can range anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500, or more.

The Cairn Terrier Club of America is a good place to find a reputable breeder.
Cairn Rescue: Col. Potter Cairn Rescue

Similar Breeds

Breeds similar to the Cairn are the Norfolk Terrier, West Highland White Terrier and the Scottish Terrier.

Here one comparison with the Scottie:

Cairn Terriers vs. Scottish Terriers: Both are similar in size and energy but differ in personality traits. While the Cairn Terrier is more social and outgoing, the Scottish Terrier tends to be confident and more reserved.

Cairn TerriersRemember The Famous "Toto" ?