Choosing a Cairn Terrier

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Choosing a Cairn Terrier

By: Dr. Dawn Ruben

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As the breed that accompanied Dorothy to the Land of Oz, the cairn terrier is a spry little dog perfect for the family. This breed is inquisitive and playful, always ready to join in the fun, even if that includes fighting witches and creepy flying monkeys.

History and Origin

Artists have been depicting dogs closely resembling the cairn terrier since the 15th century. By the late 1700s, the Highlands of Scotland, including the Isle of Skye, were spilling over with little terriers originally known by the generic term "short-haired" or "little Skye terriers." Toward the end of the 19th century, it was decided to separate these Scottish terriers and develop pure bloodlines and specific breeds. Originally, the breeds were separated into two categories – Dandie Dinmont terriers and Skye terriers.

Eventually, the Skye terriers, thought to originate from the Isle of Skye, were further divided into the Scottish terrier, West Highland white terrier and cairn terrier.

A cairn is a pile of stones that signify a landmark or memorial. Vermin would hide in these cairns and the terriers would readily flush them out. In 1912, the cairn terrier received an official name based on their excellent ability to hunt fox, otter and badger in cairns.

In 1913, the breed received official recognition by the American Kennel Club.

Appearance

The cairn terrier is a small dog with a rough appearance. The ears are sharply pointed and erect. The hair coat appears ragged and coarse but should not be trimmed. The cairn terrier can be various colors including cream, red, brindle, light gray or even black. The only color that is not allowed is white.

Size

The cairn terrier stand 9 to 10 inches at the shoulder and weighs about 14 pounds.

Personality

The cairn terrier is a rough and tumble kind of dog. It is a terrier at heart and always seems ready to go. The breed is active, curious and loves getting into things.

Home and Family Relations

The cairn terrier makes a wonderful family pet and will follow right along with anything the children want to do. The breed is ideal as a single house dog or with other dogs. The cairn terrier is small enough for an apartment and certainly tough enough to live on a country farm.

Training

The cairn terrier is inquisitive and a quick learner. They do well with obedience training but love rousting prey from their lairs.

Special Concerns

As a terrier, the cairn has a tendency to dig. If not provided adequate entertainment, behavior problems may develop. The hair coat is not long but the coarse nature requires daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles.

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