The Dogs Bone

The Cairn Terrier is a hardy, small, solid, and sporty dog, with a rough weather-resistant coat that sheds.  The Gaelic word "cairn" means a heap of stones, which is a suitable name for a terrier that goes to ground.  This breed is in many ways the classic terrier, exhibiting the same tenacious, sassy, obstinate yet charming personality that is common to this group. 

He is intelligent, active, and affectionate, often reluctant to cooperate with his trainer and somewhat of a barker.  This breed is initially suspicious of strangers and makes a great watchdog.  He has a high prey drive toward small animals and will not likely get along with a kitten or a hamster. 

He is good with children provided he is raised with them from puppy hood, although he does not tolerate roughhousing.  The Cairn can be a nipper, especially when he is spoiled.  Also, because of his stubborn nature, it is very difficult for him to learn the "Down" command.  He is a long-lived dog and is not susceptible to any major medical problems.

Size:  The Cairn Terrier stands approximately 9-10in at the shoulder and weighs between 12 and 15lb.

History and origin:  The Cairn Terrier was developed in Scotland and was used as a ratter and as a bolter of foxes and otters.  His weather-resistant coat allowed him to withstand the cold and windy Scottish climate.  It was recorded that James VI of Scotland (James I of England) ordered half a dozen of terriers or "earth dogs" to be sent as a present to France. 

These were believed to be the forerunners of the present-day Cairn Terrier.  In his work "The Popular Cairn Terrier," Mr. J.W.H. Beynon stated that as far as he could learn, the oldest known strain of Cairns was founded by the late Captain MacLeod of Drynoch, Isle of Skye, which goes back over 150 years.

Feeding:  Recommended feeding for this small terrier is