Dog
Group:
Terrier 
Cairn Terrier Champions
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Breed Description:
Small in stature, large in heart, the Cairn Terrier breed of dog has a devil-may-care attitude and a great love of people. The first impression is one of gameness, hardiness and activity. Short-legged, but free in his movements. The Cairn Terrier stands well forward on its forelegs. He has strong hindquarters and a well-proportioned, sturdy build. His double coat is hard and weather-resistant. The head of the Cairn Terrier is shorter and wider than any other terrier; his general hairiness gives him a somewhat foxy expression. The skull of the Cairn Terrier breed of dog is broad in proportion to its length, with a decided stop. The relatively thick thatch of hair on his head may be somewhat softer than the body coat. His muzzle is strong but not too long or heavy. The teeth are large, nose black and medium size eyes set wide apart, rather sunken, with shaggy eyebrows. They are hazel or dark hazel in color, depending on body color, with a keen expression. The Cairn Terrier's ears are small, pointed, erectly carried, and set wide apart on the side of the head. The tail of the Cairn Terrier breed of dog is well furnished with hair but not feathery. He carries his tail gaily but does not curl it over his back. The Cairn Terrier has a well-muscled, strong, active body with well-sprung, deep ribs, coupled to strong hindquarters, with a level back, giving an impression of strength and activity. He has a sloping shoulder, medium length legs of medium bone. Forelegs should be perfectly straight, but forefeet may be slightly turned out. Forefeet larger than hind feet. Legs must be covered with hard hair. Pads should be thick and strong. The coat of the Cairn Terrier breed of dog is hard, double-coated and weather-resistant. The dense outer coat should be harsh, and the undercoat short, soft, close and furry. Cairn Terriers may be of any color except white. Dark ears, muzzle and tail tip are preferred.
Temperament:
Sturdy of body and sturdy of heart, the Cairn Terrier breed of dog exhibits love of life and a winning way. Cheerful and alert, he is kind and good with children. His independent streak can make training patience-intensive.
Height:
9 to 12 inches
Weight:
13 to 17 pounds
Health Problems:
The Cairn Terrier breed of dog is associated with the following health concerns: von Willebrand disease, Perthes disease, patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, allergies, cataracts, hypothyroidism, and several cancers.
Living Conditions:
The Cairn Terrier breed of dog is adaptable to apartment life, but is better suited to life with a fenced in yard where he can dig and play.
Exercise:
The Cairn Terrier breed of dog tends to gain weight easily, so he should be given long walks several times/day. He enjoys a fenced yard where he can dig.
Life Expectancy:
12 to 15 years
Grooming:
The Cairn Terrier breed of dog requires regular brushing. The hair around his eyes should be trimmed from time to time, and a professional hand stripping/grooming several times a year is recommended.
Origin:
The Cairn Terrier breed of dog originated on the Hebrides Islands north of Scotland. He was developed as a dog that could burrow into the dens of foxes and other pests that lived in the rocky cairns. Comments
The standards for all the breeds accepted to the AKC are used here for breed information, and those not part of the AKC are resourced from FCI standard information, where it is written and coded into the club rules for those breeds.
