The Cairn Terrier, also called the "Cairn", is a member of the terrier dog group. They have a fox-like face, pointy ears and a wiry coat in any color but white. The breed is assumed to have originated during the early 1900s. Hunting foxes and other small game is what they were initially bred for. Today they're popular as a companion dog. They are well-known for their association with Toto of The Wizard Of Oz and their playfulness with children. They are thought to have appeared in the Isle of Skye and Highlands of Scotland and their earlier ancestors are the Scottish and Western Highland White Terriers.

They're classified as a small sized breed. The recommended female guidelines are 9.5 inches high with a weight of 13 pounds, while the male dimensions are 10-12 inches tall and a weight of 14 pounds. They're recognized for their spirited and independent personality. The breed is mostly reserved towards strangers, but their size can make them unsuitable as a protection dog. They are ranked 35th in comparison with all other dogs when learning new commands, and are recognized as being quite smart.

They're playful towards children, and that can make them suitable as a family pet. They don't combine peacefully with other animals such as rabbits, cats or mice. Grooming them is a relatively simple job. They need a small amount of brushing through their coat every week, and full grooming once every 4 to 8 weeks. They love having a good, well-fenced backyard so they have plenty of room, but can be suitable for staying in an apartment.

They're by and large long-lived, as with a good number of small sized breeds, and have an expected life of 12-15 years. Their most severe health issue is allergies to fleas, and they can also be vulnerable to eye problems and patellar luxation. Things like play sessions and chasing a ball or stick will keep them entertained. They need moderate walks every day to prevent the development of bad behavior due to their high level of energy.

If you choose the Cairn Terrier you must be ready to give them a lot of attention and proper training. They are an excellent option for active owners or families and apartment dwellers, but not an ideal option for households with several pets. Quite a few dog owners find this dog very appealing, and one of the biggest reasons is that it can make a good addition to a family due to its cute face and playful nature with kids.