"They don’t call me “tiny” for nothing!"
Cairn Terriers’ personalities are ten times bigger than their ten-pound bodies. These pups are adoring and loyal, but they also get stubborn and aggressive if they don’t have a leader. Cairns need attention and exercise to stay healthy and happy, and if you aren’t doing what they want, they won’t be afraid to speak up.
Cairn Terriers are natural hunters with playful, adoring, and high energy personalities. Their need for independence doesn’t get in the way of their devotion to family, but they may be a bit stubborn unless they have an Alpha to keep them in line. Like other terriers, Cairn Terriers, were bred to be ratters, so they tend to dig and burrow. When they find something or want to share their emotions, these dogs will bark to tell you what’s on their mind.
Cairn Terriers have a weatherproof coat with two layers. Their undercoats are soft and fluffy, but their overcoats are rough and wiry. This breed comes in almost any color except white. The most common coats are black, brindle, red, sand, and some shades of gray, with darker hair on their muzzles, ears, and tails. The Cairn’s coat color changes throughout their lives, so don’t be surprised if your dog’s hue looks different as it gets older.
Cairn Terriers are loyal dogs that are great with families and are happy inside or outside. They love playing with kids but are sensitive to roughhousing, so keep an eye on them around small children. Cairns also love playing with other animals and chasing them around. However, they can be aggressive toward larger breeds and should be kept with dogs their own size. These dogs also need a strong leader to keep them in line. If they’re not well trained or can get away with being the boss, they may develop frustrating behavioral problems.
Cairn Terriers have an insatiable appetite for activity. They need walks or runs every day and lots of playtime to keep them calm. These dogs play rough though, so keep an eye on them around other dogs and kids. Cairn Terriers are also big fans of jumping, and as a result, they do well with agility training. They love being off leash but should be kept in fenced areas, as they have a tendency to run away.