Do they Bark?

Yes, they bark. However, they do not usually become yappy unless allowed to do so. Some personalities are noisier than others as in any breed. All the more reason to make a commitment to training your dog. A Cairn is a good watch dog for it will enthusiastically announce visitors to your yard and home.

Do they like children?

Oh yes, they generally like children as long as the children are reasonable with the dog. It is expected that parents will train their children how to act responsibly with the dog and that the dog is also taught manners in dealing with people.

How long do they live?

Cairns can be expected to love up to 18 years old. The majority live untill 12-14 years so it is a long commitment should you decide to choose this breed as a companion. Cairns are generally healthy dogs but like other breeds and mongrels are prone to some genetic problems. Please feel free to ask a breeder about health and genetic history.

What about grooming?

Cairns, like many other terriers, must have the dead coat pulled or stripped out. It is not hard to do the breeder should be happy to show you how to do it. Keeping a Cairn's ears, feet, and tail trimmed goes a long way to making the dog look good. A Cairn should not be bathed very ofter. Once a year is plenty as the Cairn does not have a oily coat. Bathing too often causes skin problems in this breed. A wash cloth for cleaning faces, tummies, and feet is advised when the dog is exceptionally dirty. A wet and dirty Cairn, if allowed to dry in his crate, olny needs brushing for all the dirt to fall off him if he has the correct hard coat.

Quick Facts:

Height
Averages 10 inches (male); averages 9 1/2 inches (female).

Weight
Averages 14 pounds (male); averages 13 (female).

Availability
May take some effort to find.

Personality
Spirited, hardy, restless little busybody. A big dog in a small dog's body. Alert, loyal, merry, lovable and mischievous. Somewhat independant, but friendly. Females tend to be more independant than males, and some breeders feel the males are more affectionate. Very curious, fearless and bold. Likes to do tricks. Easily trainable. Naturally patient with children and very playful. Sensitive, needs firm, but not harsh, training and discipline. Without attention and training, the Cairn can become destructive and/or bark excessively. Adapts well to new homes.

Children
Best with older, considerate children.

Friendliness
Fairly friendly with strangers.

Trainability
Easy to train.

Independence
Fairly independent.

Dominance
Moderate.

Other Pets
Generally good with other pets.

Combativeness
Can be a bit dog-aggressive.

Noise
Average barker.

Grooming
A little grooming needed.

Trimming
Moderate trimming or stripping needed.

Coat
Medium long coat.

Shedding
Very light.

Exercise
Moderate exercise needed.

Jogging
Small, but a pretty good jogging companion.

Indoors
Very active indoors.

Apartments
Will be OK in an apartment if sufficiently exercised.

Outdoor Space
Does all right without a yard.

Climate
Does well in most climates.

Owner
Good for novice owners.

Longevity
Moderately long lived (12 to 15 years).

Talents
Hunting, tracking, watchdog, agility, competitive obedience, and performing tricks.