Cairn Terrier
Group: Terrier
Lifespan: 12-15 Years
Pups per Litter: 4-6
Average Weight: 13-18 lbs.
Average Height: 9-13 inches
Exercise/Actvity Level: Moderate
Temperment with:
Children 
Other Dogs Other Animals 
History
The Cairn Terrier was originally bred in Scotland. They were bred to chase away rodents that lived in the rock fences/borders dividing each persons land or surrounding grave sites. That is also were their name is derived from as Cairn translates to the stone fence/borders. It is thought that the Cairn was bred to create other Scottish Terriers such as the Skye Terrier, and the West Highland White Terrier.
Traits
The Cairn Terrier is an independent little dog that is mischievous yet sweet. Curious and jolly, these little dogs are known for finding things to entertain themselves with and are fantastic diggers! They are in constant need of attention from their families and if they do not receive this, they will become barky or destructive. Cairn Terriers are also known for being good with children as they love to play! They are also known as a sensitive breed so training will need to be in a positive manner.
Appearance
Weighing in at 13-18 lbs (6-8 kgs) and averaging 9-13 inches high, the Cairn Terrier is a little dog full of personality. They have a double coat, with the outer coat being wiry and rough and the under coat being thick and soft. The coat will be either a gray, red, sand, brindle or black. As puppies, the Cairns coat will be one colour and this will change as it grows into an adult. Their face is shaggy, with big eyebrows and their eyes are set far into their head. The ears are smaller and are pricked upward, and their tail is long and has cascading fur from it.
Health
When owning a Cairn Terrier, people must be aware to not feed this dog to much as it will become obese quickly if done so. They are also sensitive to fleas and might be prone to some eye problems such as Cataracts, Entropian, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, and Ocular Melanosis. Luxating Patella’s and Hip Dysplasia are other diseases that they are prone to.
Training
The Cairn Terrier is an easily trained dog if the owner is clear and consistent. They are bright and happy little dogs that like to impress their family. The training must be done in a positive manner as they do not react well to negative methods and can be sensitive to their owners voice.
Care
The Cairn Terrier will require a higher amount of grooming. Their coat looks as if it doesn’t need to much brushing, but if not done 3-4 times a week, will become tangled and matted. They shed almost no fur, but will need to be bathed about once a month and the hair around their eyes should be clipped when the owner finds it is to long.
Breed
This breed is categorized in the Terrier Group. They would do well in an apartment if they are exercised regularly. They don’t need a yard as they will use the indoors to run around. The average lifespan for the Cairn Terrier is about 12-15 years. The have around 4-6 pups per litter. When obtaining a puppy Cairn Terrier, keep in mind that every puppy is different and to research your breed before bringing the baby home!
Reference pages for Information:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/cairnterrier.htm Cairn Terrier Breed Information
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cairn_Terrier Cairn Terrier Information
http://www.cairnterrier.org Cairn Terrier Club of America
http://www.cairnrescueusa.com Cairn Terrier Rescue
http://www.akc.org/breeds/cairn_terrier/ Cairn Terrier AKC Standards
