“One of a family of short-legged terriers that evolved at the Scottish Isle of Skye, the Cairn Terrier probably still resembles the ancestral shape to a greater degree than others descended from the exact origins. These puppies appear to have existed for the 15th century and have been used to seek foxes, badgers, and otters. The puppies have been adept at bolting otters from the cairns (stone piles that served as landmarks or memorials).

The puppies came in plenty of colors, starting from white to grey to red, and have been taken into consideration by Scotch Terriers once they began to go into the show ring., They were divided into Dandie Dinmont and Skye Terriers, In 1873 with the Cairn in the latter group. This group later turned into Skye and Hard-haired Terriers in 1881. The Hard-haired Terriers ultimately separated into Scotch, West Highland White, and the breed eventually called the Cairn. At one time, the Cairn was referred to as the Short-haired Skye, then the Cairn Terrier or Skye, and finally, around 1912, the Cairn Terrier. Some of the most influential early Cairns have been all white, but white and blending with West Highland Whites turned into banned by the 1920s.

The breed has become pretty famous in England and pretty famous in America, gaining its best reputation as the canine playing Toto in the Wizard of Oz. As one of the more excellent natural and much less sculpted terriers, the breed is particularly regarded by people who appreciate a working terrier. Perhaps the motto of the British breed club sums it up great: “The best little friend in the world.””

Temperement

The Cairn is the essence of a terrier; plucky, spirited, bold, inquisitive, hardy, clever, stubborn, and scrappy. However, Cairns are conscious of their family’s wishes and try to please; in fact, they’re highly sensitive. These puppies may be correct pets if they’re given everyday bodily and mental workouts and training in a secure area. However, they enjoy playing with children and may be assertive with different puppies and chases small animals, so introduce them carefully. They like to sniff, explore, and hunt. They dig; a few barks.

Upkeep

Despite their small size, Cairns require an outdoor workout every day, a moderate stroll on a leash, a fun recreation in the yard, or a tour in a secure area. Their wire coat desires to comb once weekly, plus expert grooming at least twice yearly.

Health

“Major diagnosis: none
Minor diagnosis: portacaval shunt, glaucoma (in association with or without ocular melanosis), CMO
Occasionally seen: GCL, patellar luxation, congenital heart defects
Suggested tests: GCL, knee, eye, cardiac
Life span: 12–14 years”

Disclaimer

Note: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet.