Cairn Terrier
Lot of dog in a small package
Cairn Terriers 101
Terrier groupThe Cairn Terrier, like other Scottish Terrier breeds, is a determined character that never backs down from a challenge. Developed to be vermin-hunters, they are not typically safe around small pets such as hamsters. They love their families and are playful and impish, but not particularly fond of strangers or other dogs.
What we love about Cairn Terriers
Bright, active dogs up for anything
Energy level
Energy level: 75% (High)
Bark level
- Very vocal
- Talkative
- As needed
Bark level: Talkative. This breed vocalizes regularly but not excessively
Size
Size: 9.5 to 10 inches tall. This is a Small sized Dog.
- Energy level
- High (75%)
- Bark level
- Talkative
- Height
- 9.5 to 10 inches
- Lifespan
- 13 to 15 years
- Weight
- 13 to 14 lbs
The Cairn Terrier stands 9.5 to 10 inches tall and weighs 13 to 14 lbs. Cairn Terriers have a lifespan of 13 to 15 years. They are known for a high (75%) energy level and a talkative bark.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How big do Cairn Terriers get?
- Cairn Terriers stand 9.5 to 10 inches tall and typically weigh between 13 and 14 pounds.
- How long do Cairn Terriers live?
- The average lifespan of a Cairn Terrier is 13 to 15 years.
- Are Cairn Terriers good for first-time dog owners?
- Cairn Terriers are intelligent but have high energy. They do best with experienced owners who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
- Do Cairn Terriers bark a lot?
- Cairn Terriers are considered talkative — they bark more than average but are not excessively vocal.
My pet’s health plannerSM
This Cairn Terrier health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.
Mature adult Cairn Terrier
Risk level for common Cairn Terrier conditions
Mid-life Cairn Terriers should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Diabetes mellitus is at high risk.
- Diabetes mellitus
- High Risk
- Urinary bladder stones
- Above Average Risk
- Liver disease
- Above Average Risk
70% on risk scaleSenior Cairn Terrier
Risk level for common Cairn Terrier conditions
Senior Cairn Terriers face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Diabetes mellitus and Gallbladder disease and Cushings disease pose very high risk.
- Diabetes mellitus
- Very High Risk
- Gallbladder disease
- Very High Risk
- Cushings disease
- Very High Risk
Cairn Terrier puppy
Risk level for common Cairn Terrier conditions
Cairn Terrier puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Gastroenteritis and Foreign body ingestion pose very high risk. Conjunctivitis is at high risk.
- Gastroenteritis
- Very High Risk
- Foreign body ingestion †
- Very High Risk
- Conjunctivitis †
- High Risk
Young adult Cairn Terrier
Risk level for common Cairn Terrier conditions
As Cairn Terriers grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant.
- Ear infection
- Below Average Risk
- Luxated patella
- Above Average Risk
- Trauma
- Average Risk
Mature adult Cairn Terrier
Risk level for common Cairn Terrier conditions
Mid-life Cairn Terriers should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Diabetes mellitus is at high risk.
- Diabetes mellitus
- High Risk
- Urinary bladder stones
- Above Average Risk
- Liver disease
- Above Average Risk
Senior Cairn Terrier
Risk level for common Cairn Terrier conditions
Senior Cairn Terriers face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Diabetes mellitus and Gallbladder disease and Cushings disease pose very high risk.
- Diabetes mellitus
- Very High Risk
- Gallbladder disease
- Very High Risk
- Cushings disease
- Very High Risk
Cairn Terrier puppy
Risk level for common Cairn Terrier conditions
Cairn Terrier puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Gastroenteritis and Foreign body ingestion pose very high risk. Conjunctivitis is at high risk.
- Gastroenteritis
- Very High Risk
- Foreign body ingestion †
- Very High Risk
- Conjunctivitis †
- High Risk
Young adult Cairn Terrier
Risk level for common Cairn Terrier conditions
As Cairn Terriers grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant.
- Ear infection
- Below Average Risk
- Luxated patella
- Above Average Risk
- Trauma
- Average Risk
Nationwide can help you save on your Cairn Terrier's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
- Puppy (0 to 6 months)
- Gastroenteritis: Very High Risk, Foreign body ingestion: Very High Risk, Conjunctivitis: High Risk
- Young Adult (7 months to 5 years)
- Ear infection: Below Average Risk, Luxated patella: Above Average Risk, Trauma: Average Risk
- Mature Adult (6 years to 9 years)
- Diabetes mellitus: High Risk, Urinary bladder stones: Above Average Risk, Liver disease: Above Average Risk
- Senior (10+ years)
- Diabetes mellitus: Very High Risk, Gallbladder disease: Very High Risk, Cushings disease: Very High Risk
In the classic movie, "The Wizard of Oz," Toto is played by a female Cairn Terrier named Terry.
Cairn Terrier coat care and colors
The wiry coat of the Cairn Terrier is one of the easier classic terrier coats to keep in shape. Regular brushing will help to remove any loose or damaged fur. While Cairns, like other small terriers, are traditionally and painstakingly "hand-stripped" of their outer coats, this is rarely done outside of the show world these days.
How often should I bathe my Cairn Terrier?
How often should I bathe my Cairn Terrier?
Should I take my Cairn Terrier to a professional groomer?
Should I take my Cairn Terrier to a professional groomer?
What kind of coat does my Cairn Terrier have?
What kind of coat does my Cairn Terrier have?
Cairn Terrier exercise & training
Cairn Terrier fun facts
Top girl names for Cairn Terriers
of Cairn Terriers are female
of Cairn Terriers are male
Top boy names for Cairn Terriers
Nationwide loves Cairn Terriers of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
| Gender | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male | 0% |
| Female | 100% |
Among Cairn Terriers insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.
Cairn Terrier statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.
Other breeds like Cairn Terriers
Best. Cairn Terrier insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
- Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
- Cancel at any time, risk-free