Cairn Terriers: Smart and Feisty
The Cairn Preserves Scotland’s Original Working Companion Dog
Jun 1, 2008
Crofters in western Scotland kept the first Cairn terriers for work and companionship. The Cairn protected food supplies from vermin and bolted fox and badger from their hiding places in the native rock piles, known as “cairns,” from which the breed acquired its name.
Cairn terriers, Scottish terriers, West Highland White terriers, and Dandie Dinmont terriers share common ancestors. Until the late 1800s, Cairns and Westies often appeared in the same litters-- sorted by color. Each evolved distinctly, but many believe that today’s Cairn terrier remains closest to the original “Scotch terrier.”
A double weather-resistant coat provided protection from the often-harsh Scottish climate, thorny bramble naturally removed dead topcoat, and downy undercoats insulated them from cold and injury.
Independent and creative, Cairn terriers require indoor quarters and thrive on human companionship or they can become bored, unhappy, and destructive.
Large slightly-turned-out front paws facilitate efficient digging. Their innate prey drive is strong, so even the best-trained are not 100% reliable off-leash, making a fenced yard a must.
Adults and older, considerate children six or older, do well with this breed. (Dorothy and Toto, a Cairn, were best pals in The Wizard of Oz.) They’re not recommended for younger children.
A puppy from a responsible breeder provides a liberal guarantee that covers genetic problems. They take great care when placing puppies spending far more money on breeding, showing, and testing than they earn from selling occasional pets. An ethical breeder wou'd rather take back any dog of their breeding than have it end up in rescue or in a shelter.
Find good breeders at dog shows. If you see a Cairn terrier you admire, ask the handler or breeder for guidance.
AKC, most regional Cairn terrier clubs, and the Cairn Terrier Club of America (CTCA) provide resources to find a well-bred dog. Consider rescuing a Cairn terrier through the CTCA’s regional network, an independent rescue group, or from a shelter.
Where there’s love and security, Cairn terriers thrive. In cities, adequate exercise and opportunities to explore green spaces will suffice. In rural areas, provide a securely fenced yard, and be ever-vigilant to protect them from predators.
Weekly brushing will maintain their appealing “tidied dishevelment” and prevent matting of this low-shed, hypo-allergenic breed. Gently pulling dead coat – or “stripping”-- best maintains coat and skin. This helps preserve the coat’s natural protective oils, making the need for bathing infrequent. A professional grooming (not clipping) about three times a year is all a typical pet Cairn needs.
AKC’s breed standard describes the Cairn terrier as having the appearance of “an active, game, hardy small working terrier. . .” The word “medium” appears or is implied throughout. However, in terms of size, today’s Cairns' size rarely match the written standard; most exceed it.
Any color except white or black fits the standard. Red, wheaten, gray, silver, cream, and brindles of all shades-- with or without dark masks and/or points-- are typical. Brindles, especially, often change color—usually darkening—over the years.
The Cairn terrier’s independence can make obedience training challenging. Bred for self-reliance, these tough terriers excel at problem-solving. Gentle firm training works best. Keep it engaging: these “free thinkers” bore easily. With time and patience, these terriers' saucy personalities can transform into a wonderful, spirited obedience dog.
AKC Earthdog Tests gauge how well Cairn terriers have maintained their original working ability. Many adore these events. The opportunity to hunt and bolt prey validates that, in the Cairn terrier, “form (still) follows function.”
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