This breed was developed in the Scottish highlands and they had great ability to work. They are the smallest terriers among all. The cairn terrier evolved in the 1500 century and become popular in 1930. This breed was named after the small stones which were used to mark the borders in Scotland farms. One of their main task was to keep away the small animals from the farm markings. But now the cairn terrier is generally a very good companion dog. This is a very athletic and obedient breed. The cairn terrior is also used as a watch dog and a hunter.
General Description
The cairn terrier is a brave and hardy breed. Their face is like a fox and is compact in shape. They are short height, they are stout and strong but they are not bulky. They have a wide head and their muzzle is long with a black nose on the tip. The cairn terrier has sharp teeth enough for a scissor bite. They have small triangular ears that stand straight on their head. Their tail is short and they have a fury coat all over them. Their face is full of fur and they have bushy eyebrows. The cairn terrier is found in many colours like brindle, black, sand, grey etc. But the colour of their coat may change when they grow older.
Character
The cairn terrier is very intelligent and brave. This breed is full of life and they have a tendency of bossing on everyone. They are very clever and independent in nature. The cairn terrier is very much active and they are always ready to bark and chase. This is a very energetic and spirited breed and is always ready to work. They are very cheerful, loyal, gentle, loving and also independent in nature. They are very obedient and that why it is easy to train them. This breed has a bad habit to barking a lot so it is necessary to train them from early age. They are very good to children but they may not be safe for small non canine pets. They are great diggers and they have a tendency of chasing small animals as I told you before. Sometimes their protective nature can become dangerous for them only. Thecairn terriers are very protective of their territory against large breed. But it may be sometimes very dangerous for them as they are not big in size and they may be unable to protect themselves from a large dog.
Temperament
This breed is very restless and full of adventure. They are very spirited, brave and bold. Highly mischievous and loyal to their families. The cairn terrier is very gentle and they prove to be great companions. This breed is very playful and always loves to indulge in activities. Their barking tendency also makes them a good watch dog. They are sometimes stubborn so it is good that the owner should be a bit experienced. They are good to children and things may be even better id the children are a bit older. They love family activities and human companion ship. Generally the cairn terriers are good to other pets but they have a habit of bossing. They are very protective of their territory against other breeds and this may prove to be dangerous for them sometimes as they are not that big in size to fight a large breed. Their behaviour with strangers vary. Some may be very shy and some are friendly.
Training
It is very easy to train this breed as they are very quick in learning. They would not respond to harsh training methods as they are sensitive. Early training classes are required as without training they may become real brutes.
Health
Generally this is a healthy breed in comparison to other breeds. The cairn terriers should not be fed much as they have a tendency of growing fat. Their life span is 12-15 years.
