Cairns originated in Scotland’s Isle of Sky, and their name comes from the fact that they were used to rid vermin from cairns (rock piles) on farms. Males should stand 10 inches at the shoulder, and weigh 14 pounds. Females should stand 9.5 inches at the shoulder, and they should weigh 13 pounds. Their harsh, weather resistant coats may be any color except white. Cairns do well in both the city and the country, and they are good with people. Cairns are an affectionate breed, but they can be a bit excitable or stubborn. They have a tendency to bark, dig and chew. They retain some of their original hunting instincts, and thus should generally not share a household with small pets such as rabbits, gerbils, or guinea pigs.

To learn how to rescue a Cairn Terrier in need of a home or for breeder referrals from the Cairn Terrier Club of America click here. 

Potential Health Problems*

• Atopy
• Cataracts
• Corneal Dystrophy
• Craniomandibular Osteopathy
• Cryptorchidism
• Diabetes Mellitus
• Entropion
• Glaucoma
• Hemophilia B
• Hypothyroidism
• Inguinal Hernia
• Krabbe Disease (nervous system disorder)
• Legg-Calves-Perthes Disease
• Luxating Patella
• Lysosomal Storage Disease
• Portosystemic Shunt
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (enzyme deficiency disorder)
• Von Willebrand Disease