Overview
This is the smallest of the Terrier breeds and was originally bred as working dogs in the Scottish Highlands. Although they are built strong and sturdy, they are not a very heavy statured dog.
Activity
This is one of the most active breeds out there and needs to have daily exercise. Keeping them in an apartment or condo can cause them to get bored and become destructive. A good fenced in yard is perfect for them so that they can run and romp all they want. They tend to dig and hunt a lot, so keep an eye on them when possible.
Care
This breed will need to be brushed almost daily and the hair around their eyes and ears should be kept trim. You will need to pay attention to their feeding as well because they tend to gain weight fairly easily if not watched. They are highly allergic to fleas and prefer to stay indoors rather than being outside.
Character
The Cairn Terrier is an exceptionally intelligent and courageous breed. They are very active and independent and require a lot of attention. They tend to bark at every new thing they see, which can be a bit annoying for inexperienced dog owners.
Coat
This breed sheds very little even though they have a shaggy appearance. They are double coated with a harsh outer coat and a soft undercoat. They rarely need to be trimmed and are great in any weather environment as they are weather resistant.
Temperament
The Cairn Terrier is a high spirited breed that loves adventure and thrives on playful stimulation. They are extremely loyal and have a mischievous side that is entertaining for the whole family. They love older children but can get a bit too rough with smaller kids, so keep your eye on them.
Training
This breed is inquisitive and picks things up very quickly. They are eager to please but can be sensitive at times. You will need to be firm when training but leave out any harsh words to make their training successful. They are easy to train for tricks and in obedience, but if you do not give them the attention and training they need, they tend to be bored.