Cairn Terrier Picture Gallery

Cairn Terrier Breeders

Cairn Terrier Clubs/Associations

The Full Cairn Terrier Description

Though the Cairn is small, he's not much for pampered life. He is likely to wriggle out of laps or long hugs. He prefers to explore and play lively games, and can be equally happy in the city or on the farm. Ultimately, the Cairn deeply desires to be a part of his beloved family, even if he does seem independent at times.

Did you know?

The Cairn Terrier is an alert, intelligent, active and long-lived

The Cairn Terrier has a working background and they like to dig

So you want to own a Cairn Terrier?

Cairn Terriers are small enough to be carried anywhere and sturdy enough for rough-housing for children.

The Cairn Terrier is best suited to a home where he will be reared with a firm, consistent discipline.

Indicative Breed Standard

General Appearance

Agile, alert, of workmanlike, natural appearance. Standing well forward on forepaws. Strong quarters. Deep in rib, very free in movement. Weather-resistant coat.

Characteristics

Should impress as being active, game and hardy.

Temperament

Fearless and gay disposition; assertive but not aggressive.

Head and Skull

Head small, but in proportion to body. Skull broad; a decided indentation between the eyes with a definite stop. Muzzle powerful, jaw strong but not long or heavy. Nose black . Head well furnished.

Eyes

Wide apart, medium in size, dark hazel. Slightly sunk with shaggy eyebrows.

Ears

Small, pointed, well carried and erect, not too closely set nor heavily coated.

Mouth

Large teeth. Jaws strong with perfect, regular and complete scissor bite, i.e. upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws.

Neck

Well set on, not short.

Forequarters

Sloping shoulders, medium length of leg, good but not too heavy bone. Forelegs never out at elbow. Legs covered with harsh hair.

Body

Back level, medium length. Well sprung deep ribs; strong supple loin.

Hindquarters

Very strong muscular thighs. Good, but not excessive, bend of stifle. Hocks well let down inclining neither in nor out when viewed from the rear.

Feet

Forefeet larger than hind, may be slightly turned out. Pads thick and strong. Thin, narrow or spreading feet and long nails objectionable.

Tail

Short, balanced, well furnished with hair but not feathery. Neither high nor low set, carried gaily but not turned down towards back.

Gait/Movement

Very free-flowing stride. Forelegs reaching well forward. Hindlegs giving strong propulsion. Hocks neither too close nor too wide.

Coat

Very important. Weather-resistant. Must be double-coated, with profuse, harsh, but not coarse, outer coat; undercoat short, soft and close. Open coats
objectionable. Slight wave permissible.

Colour

Cream, wheaten, red, grey or nearly black. Brindling in all these colours acceptable. Not solid black, or white, or black and tan. Dark points, such as ears and muzzle, very typical.

Size

Approximately 28-31 cms (11-12 ins) at withers, but in proportion to weight – ideally 6-7.5 kgs (14-16 lbs).