Cairn Terriers are among the oldest, if not the oldest, of the Terrier breeds. As early as the 1500s the ancestral cairn is called the "earth dogge" or terrier of the North". Over time, the Scottie and West Highland White separated and the original terrier became identified as the Cairn.
The Cairn terriers were bred to kill vermin found in the rocky crevices, or cairns, on the Scottish farms. They excelled above other breeds at hunting otter. Farms with several Cairns were free of rats, mice, moles, and other burrowing animals.
Today's Cairn terrier is a companion animal whose ancient instincts make it an amusing house pet. It is a sturdy animal with few health problems and life span often extending in to the late teens, The best known example of a Cairn is ToTo from the Wizard of Oz.
PERSONALITY
Are you really sure you want this dog? Cairn Terriers are affectionate and have a sunny disposition but they are not for owners with little time for a dog. They are intelligent and devious, especially if allowed to rule their home without restrictions. Although they thrive on attention and love children, their small frame and rambunctious nature makes them unsuitable for small children who may wish to ride them.
Cairn terriers are territorial. They assume that the neighborhood is theirs and charge at any strange dog invading their turf. They do not realize they are small and will tackle a German Shepherd. They are fiercely protective of their home and family and make excellent watchdogs as long as they're awake. They are at home in the city or country, in an apartment or a house. Just remember that Cairns are an indoor dog and not a breed for a dog house.
Cairns are verbal dogs. They growl, bark, and "talk" with a wide range of sounds. Often they will sound vicious as they bark at strangers or especially other dogs. Cairns are easy to train to speak or ask for a treat with the right rewards.
Cairns dig and chew, traits that can be problems unless they are well exercised. Although Cairns may love to walk a mile on a lead, they can get sufficient exercise just playing "gimme the ball" and briskly circling the block. Their short legs give them quick bursts of energy for short runs but are not as efficient for sustained effort.
Because of their instinct to charge after any moving object (including cars) without warning, it's imperative that they be securely fenced or on a lead for their own safety.
Cairn terriers are excellent family pets. They are loving and loyal. If you invite this little ball of energy into your home for a few months, you and your dog will quickly bond for a lifetime.
OFFICIAL RECOGNITION: UK Terrier Group, FCI Group 3, AKC Terrier Group
COLOR VARIATIONS: Cream, Wheaten, Red, Gray, or nearly Black
BREED FACT: When first exhibited in 1909, the Cairn Terrier was shown under the name of "Short-haired Skye Terrier."
HISTORY
THE CAIRN TERRIER has long been known in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland and it may indeed have originated on the Isle of Skye, where it was used to work the cairns of that island. A true earth dog, recognized by the English Kennel Club under the this name in 1910, this workman-like breed stands well forward on the forepaws and is deep in rib and free in movement.
The coat is very important and must be weather resistant, double-coated with profuse, harsh outer-coat and short, soft under-coat. Brindling is permissible on all colors listed above but the Cairn should not be black, white or black and tan. Dark points on ears and muzzle are very typical.
Of fearless and gay disposition, the Cairn is assertive but not aggressive. Its height varies roughly from 11-12 inches (28-31 cm) but height must be in proportion to weight which ranges ideally from 14-16 lb (6-7.5 kg).
