In this video, we look at Cairn Terriers

Description

Cairn terriers are small “lap” dogs that will snuggle whenever they can. The average size is ten inches high and fifteen inches long. They have short, wide heads and a short, strong body and they are tiny.

Their ears and tails remain up to show that they are alert dogs. There are many assorted colours and the most common markings on Cairn Terriers are black markings, black points, and a black mask.

Nature and temperament

Cairn terriers are fearless, cheerful, and alert. They are highly intelligent and loyal which makes them easy to train. Close family contact is ideal as they enjoy snuggles and perceive their owners as their best friends.

They are good with children and other dogs. They may bark excessively however with training this can be controlled.

Origins

Cairn terriers originated in Scotland with several other types of terriers. For several years Cairn Terriers were seen as Scotch Terriers. In the late 1800’s, stricter breeding patterns and classifications occurred, and Cairn Terriers finally appeared in print. Isle of Skye was the first known place of origin for Cairns to dwell.

Type of breed and uses
The main use of Cairn Terriers was to patrol farms and game preserves. Cairn Terriers were named after a pile of rocks. In Scotland, a mound of stones or a boundary marking a grave was known as a Cairn.

Rats and other rodents would dig and reside within these mounds of stones. As hunters, the Cairn Terriers were developed to dig into these cairns to retrieve rats and rodents.

Sometimes they would be grouped in packs and hunted foxes, otters, and other predators. Due to their origin, these dogs can be quite the diggers in one’s back yard!

Care

Cairns do best on high quality dog food. Their diet should be suited to their age and ensure they always have clean and fresh water. Cairn Terrier coats are easily maintained.

They require weekly brushing and combing. Their nails should be trimmed regularly. Cairns are adaptable and energetic therefore they are suited to diverse types of terrains from Highlands farms to urban highrises.

This breed is good with obedience, tracking, herding, agility, coursing ability tests and any other activities they can do with their owners. With regards to training, they respond to positive reinforcement.

An owner may find difficulties with training because Cairn Terriers have a short attention span however they will find ease in certain aspects of training due to their high intelligence.

Health info

Cairn Terriers have good health overall. It is best to collaborate with other breeders in communicating about the potential disorders and preservation of the breeds special qualities.

Recommended health tests from the National Breed Club are patella evaluation, ophthalmologist evaluation, PSVA, Kidney Aplasia, cardiac exam, GCL DNA test and MVA test.

Additionally, they may have increased sensitivity to fleas and ticks attributed to their proneness to skin problems. They may have clogged pores which can make them susceptible to foul odour.

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