Cairn Terrier breed guide

The unique qualities called Cairnishness include a short, wide head and a free-moving, short-legged body that shows strength without heaviness, about 10 inches high and 15 inches long. A Cairn presents as a small, shaggy, alert dog with head, tail and ears up and eyes shining with intelligence.

A British breed club promotes Cairn Terriers as the best little pal in the world. They are very smart and love their families but may test an owner's limits, so obedience training is necessary.

Cairn Terriers live 13 to 15 years. Responsible breeders test their stock for health disorders and communicate regularly with other dedicated breeders, working together for breed health and preservation.

Cairn Terriers are easy keepers, though AKC recommends weekly brushing and combing plus periodic hand-stripping to maintain the coat's texture. A comb and a soft slicker brush make the work easier.

A moderate amount of exercise suffices and Cairn Terriers adapt to various living situations when given daily outings, from a Highlands farm to an urban high-rise. They may always have the instinct to dig and chase small animals and dog sports give them an outlet.

The Cairn is one of several terrier breeds, some extinct, that patrolled the game preserves and farms of Scotland for centuries. Their histories are hard to unravel because for years they were lumped together as Scotch terriers and breed fanciers did not devise strict breeding programs and classifications until the late 1800s.

The name Cairn Terrier did not appear in print until 1887, though Cairn-type terriers had been around a long time and were known from at least the 1600s in the Western Highlands.