Cairn Terrier Dog Breed

About the Cairn Terrier

The Cairn Terrier is originally from Scotland, dating from the 17th century when it was closely linked with other types of terriers. The breed was first known as the Shorthaired or Prick-Eared Skye Terrier. Then, in the 19th century, it was named the Cairn for its capacity to root out vermin sheltering in rock piles (cairns). This breed is independent, intelligent, loyal, and friendly; however, they don’t enjoy being left alone at home for too long since they like to regularly express their affection for their family.

AKC Group

Terrier Group

Height

9.5 – 10 Inches

Weight

13-14 Pounds

Lifespan

13-15 Years

History of the Cairn Terrier

The Cairn Terrier originates from the Isle of Skye and is recognized as one of Scotland’s earliest recognized working dogs. One of the smallest of the go-to-ground terriers, the Cairn was developed to dig into cairns and flush out smaller creatures. In its native land, a “cairn” is a mound of stones used as a boundary or grave marker where rodents liked to live. The local dogs would also hunt in packs to pursue foxes, otters, and other predators. The Cairn’s independence, courage, toughness, and awareness served it well when digging and when it was confronted by sharp-toothed quarry.

Cairns were known from the 1600s, but initially, this breed was categorized as a form of “Skye Terrier“ alongside the ancestors of the Scottish and West Highland White Terriers. A Highland sportsman by the name of Captain Martin MacLeod used his dogs to hunt otters. Later enthusiasts included a gamekeeper named Mr. John Macdonald who carried on Macleod’s Drynock strain as the 20th century approached. All of his dogs descended from the Cairn’s earliest progenitors.

In 1912, The Royal Kennel Club of the United Kingdom gave the Cairn Terrier a separate breed designation. In 1912, the first year of recognition, 134 Cairn Terriers were registered, and shortly afterwards, the breed was given Championship status.

While most Cairn Terriers are no longer used for their original purpose, they remain independent and feisty small dogs that enjoy hunting, digging, and playing with their people. Thankfully, the range and availability of canine sports has grown rapidly in recent years, and there’s a dog sport that’s ideal for every Cairn.

General Appearance

Height & Weight

The height of the adult male Cairn Terrier is 10 inches at the withers; mature females typically measure 9.5 inches tall.

In terms of weight, a healthy male typically weighs 14 pounds, while the female generally weighs 13 pounds.

Body Proportion & Substance

The Cairn Terrier is a small, short-legged breed with a well-proportioned build overall. Its general appearance is easily recognizable and has not changed much over time. The breed’s body is compact and of medium length, with a level back. This dog has sloping shoulders, deep and well-sprung ribs, strong muscular thighs, and a good bend of stifle, characteristics that support its working role as a hunter of vermin in tight spaces. Consequently, the Cairn is noted for its strong but not heavy body when compared with similar terrier breeds.

Coat Texture, Colors & Markings

Texture: The coat of the Cairn Terrier is weather-resistant, consisting of a wiry, harsh, and profuse outer coat that is free from coarseness, and soft, short, and close undercoat. The hair on the head may be somewhat softer than the body coat, but still harsh enough to offer protection from brairs.

A Note About Color: The Cairn Terrier’s coat can be any color except white, solid black, or black and tan. Dark points on the ears and muzzle are very typical, as is brindling on any acceptable color.

Head

• Skull: The Cairn Terrier’s head is medium-sized and is in balance with the body. It is broad in proportion to its length, and there’s a slight indentation with a definite stop between the eyes.
• Expression: The expression is friendly and full of life, reflecting the breed’s playful yet alert nature. The look keen and connotes great intelligence.
• Eyes: The Cairn’s eyes are medium in size, set wide apart, and a dark hazel color. They are deeply set under a shaggy brow.
• Ears: The ears of the Cairn Terrier are set on the corners of the skull, not too close together and not too far apart. . They are small, pointed, carried erect, and not heavily coated.
• Muzzle: The breed’s muzzle is short yet full. It is neither too long nor too heavy, and strong enough to support teeth that are surprisingly large for the size of the dog.
• Nose: The nose of Cairn is proportional with the muzzle and is always black in color.
• Bite: The Cairn Terrier has strong teeth in a level or a scissors bite, where the upper incisors closely overlap the lower incisors. A full complement of teeth is greatly desired.

Tail

The tail of a Cairn Terrier is moderate in length, straight, thick, and strong. It is set on at the level of the back and is wider at the base than at the tip. The tail is furnished with dense hair and is carried between the 12 and 2 o’clock position. It should never curl over the back when the dog is moving.

The Cairn Terrier – What to Consider?

The Cairn Terrier, with its friendliness, playfulness, and loyalty, is a great choice among single dog people and families. However, as with any breed and mixed breed, the breed’s high level of energy and its hunting instincts come with responsibilities that should be considered before acquiring a Cairn.