Cairn Terrier

The Cairn Terrier origins can be traced to the Highlands of Scotland and the Island of Skye more than 200 years ago. This terrier dog was originally bred to hunt vermin, foxes and rodents.

Cairns were initially grouped under the Skye Terrier class alongside Scottish Terriers and West Highland White Terriers. It was only in the late 19th century when breeders began to select for different characteristics of the Skye Terrier that three variations were recognised as separate breeds.

In 1912, the Cairn Terrier breed was recognised and registered as a separate breed. In the same year, the breed also received the Championship status. The name Cairn was taken from the pile of stones that marked Scottish burial sites which are often the hideouts of vermin that terrier dogs hunt.

Today, Cairn Terriers are known worldwide with over twenty breed clubs of enthusiasts upholding the breed standard. Cairns remain as one of the most popular companion dogs and family pets.

The Cairn Terrier is a small dog, solid and well-muscled that sport a shaggy coat. This breed has a small broad head, defined stop and a powerful muzzle. Its jaws are strong with a regular scissor bite with upper teeth slightly overlapping the lower ones. It also boasts of a black and shiny nose that adds to the Cairn’s charm. Cairns have dark hazel eyes that are set wide apart, shaggy eyebrows, and small pointed ears. This dog breed's body is well-proportioned with a strong neck, well-boned shoulders, compact and well-sprung ribs, nice level back, and supple loins. Cairns have short tails that are well furnished and sit high on its body.

The Cairn Terrier sports a shaggy double coat that comes in shades of red, brindle, black, sand or grey. The double coat of the Cairn consists of a wiry topcoat and a soft and plush undercoat, giving it the shaggy appearance.

Its coat should be brushed once a week to remove loose dead hair. Bathing can be done once a few months or as needed. Cairns that are to be show dogs require some trimming using a stripping knife, which can be done twice or thrice a year.

Other than grooming the coat and keeping it clean and tidy, it is important to also do basic care on their ears, nails and teeth. Weekly tooth brushing is required to maintain oral health and avoid dental issues such as gum disease, tartar build-up or bad breath. For cleaning the ears, make sure only to use veterinarian-approved solution. If Cairns don't wear down its nails naturally, then make sure to trim them on a monthly basis.

Cairn Terriers are excellent companions for all families and are useful vermin hunters on farms. They are devoted canines that are happiest when with his family. They like to play with children. However, playtime with smaller kids must always be supervised because ironically, this breed also doesn't have a lot of patience and is known to bite.

>Like all terrier breeds, the Cairn can be stubborn. When training this breed, one is required to show consistency and patience. Cairns must be trained when young and must be made to understand who is in charge in the house, or it will take any opportunity to bend the rules and run a muck.

• Senior and less active: up to 400 calories daily
• Typical adult: up to 450 calories daily
• Physically active/working dog: up to 500 calories daily

Getting a Cairn Terrier is not as simple as going to the pet shop and buying one. Certain considerations must be taken before you go down that road of dog ownership. Are you financially capable of raising a dog? If you doubt you are, here is a summary of how much it will cost to purchase and care for a Cairn Terrier.

A Cairn Terrier puppy that is bred by reputable breeder will cost you £400 to over £700. Pet insurance, which you must avail if you want to offset some likely costs in the future, will cost around £19 per month for a basic cover and £40 a month for a lifetime cover. When it comes to food, premium quality dog food will set you back £35 to £50 a month.

Taking a Cairn Terrier for veterinary routine checks and other procedures such as vaccinations, boosters and neutering will quickly add up to £1,000 a year. On average, you will likely spend about £65 to £100 to raise and care for a Cairn Terrier. This rough estimate does not include insurance, other medical treatments not covered by the insurance, professional grooming services, and obedience classes or training.