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The American Kennel Club lists many different breeds of terrier dogs. One of these terriers that many people are discovering is a perfect match for their life style, plus being a great family dog, is the loveable Cairn terrier.
Originating in Scotland, as so many other terrier breeds can lay claim to as the country of their origin, the loveable Cairn terrier is a close cousin to the Welsh terrier, Scottish terrier, and West Highland terrier. The Cairn terrier breed is very popular in its native nation and many other European nations, but is still somewhat obscure in America. This is changing however as more and more people discover what a great dog the Cairn is.
What draws the attention of many dog lovers to this diminutive dog is he is not like his more sophisticated and pampered relatives. The Cairn is what I would call your average all around normal dog that is happy without all the pampering. If he looks a bit rough around the edges due to lack of weekly grooming this is part of his allure so many find appealing.
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Debi
Jul 1, 2015 at 11:22 pm
Our Sydney has been the life of our home since 2002. She has always been a delight and full of love and spirited personality. Everyone who knows her loves her. In 2014 she developed diabetes and cataracts in both eyes. Her hearing is also impaired. However, even with the extra care she requires now, we are still happy to be her people. She adds so much to our lives and she will be with us until the end of her days. After a proper mourning period we will try to find another Cairn to love.
Lindsay Ogden
Feb 24, 2014 at 11:14 am
I have a Cairn… they are the MOST delightful dog – friend – companion. They are highly intelligent and love to learn. There is never a dull moment with this joy of a dog, great with kids and a lover of long walks… just don’t let them go! With mine, he would chase a rabbit or whatever for miles without giving up! Can’t recommend them highly enough
Kelley Gaither
Nov 26, 2013 at 6:53 pm
I’m owned by several dogs,but the boss lady of the group is a cairn terrier/daschund mix named Tonka. I got her from my parent’s neighbors 9 yrs ago,when I’m ashamed to say I accidently slammed the car door on her(she was visiting my mom’s dog’s pups,and had followed me w/o me knowing it. I checked her over,and went to the neighbor,and told them what had happened,and how sorry I was,and that I didn’t think she was hurt,but if she was,I would take care of her vet bills. She said ‘well,she’s my grandkid’s dog,but I guess the new wore off..do you want her?Otherwise,it’s the pound’. Well,I couldn’t look into those 12 week old eyes and say ‘no’. So,she’s owned me ever since! btw,the other two dogs she runs around are an Irish Wolfhound/Airedale Terrier mix named Scooter(65 pounds) and an English Mastiff/Mountain Cur mix named Gator (80 pounds. Tonka weighs 12. She’s am Irish Wolfhound in a weiner dog’s body!
Kathi Kelley
Nov 6, 2013 at 1:46 pm
I had a great Cairn Terrier, Klyde, for many years. Smart, loving, great companion. But oh, so stubborn. He only learned what he thought made sense. In a training class, he did all the sit, walk, heel, etc., but would not do a down. Even the trainer could not get him to do it. Then my nephew visited and showed us his well trained dog, who did a beautiful down. Klyde was jealous of the attention given my nephew’s dog. After my nephew left, I was complaining to my Mom that Klyde would not do the down. As soon as I said down, he did it. From then on he did a great down. Once he decided it would get what he wanted, he did it! Jealousy was a great motivator!
Cynthia Sobkowich
Nov 6, 2013 at 12:55 am
Yes, I do own a Cairn Terrier, or should I say, he owns me. 🙂
They are delightful dogs with a hilarious personality and constantly entertaining. Our Cairn has a language all his own and “talks” up a storm when he wants something. They are extremely smart. We also have a West Highland Terrier which is very similar. They are both excellent excavators so if you want a beautiful garden, this dog is probably not the best choice. If you want a loyal loving and very intelligent companion. I would say, go for it!