Toad Mountain Terriers

The Cairn Terrier is considered to be one of the oldest terrier breeds. They originated in the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye. Cairn Terriers were originally lumped in with the Scottish Terr​ier and the West Highland White Terrier as one breed. However, in the 1900's the three began to be bred separately and individual breeds were developed. The Cairn Terrier's principle duty is that of a ratter. They were utilized by farmers to catch and kill mice, squirrels and other rodents. The Cairn Terrier was originally known as the Short-haired Skye Terrier until they were brought to the United Kingdom's dog show in 1909. Sky Terrier breeders did not take well to the name and a compromise was reached with the name Cairn Terrier. The Cairn Terrier was given his new name for the frequent trapping of fox and badger in the very common cairns (man made piles of rock used for marking locations) all over Scotland. They would wedge their way inside and bark at their prey until the farmer came to claim it.

The Cairn Terrier male will reach heights between 10-13 inches and an average weight of 14-18 pounds. The female Cairn Terrier is slightly smaller, reaching heights between 9-12 inches and an average weight of 13-17 pounds.

The Cairn Terrier has a weather resistant double coat. The top coat will feel rough to the touch, however the undercoat is quite soft. The coat can come in nearly any color with the exception of white. The common coat colors for the Cairn Terrier are black, brindle, red, sand and shades of gray. You will typically notice darker hairs around the muzzle, ears and tip of the tail. The Cairn Terrier's coat will change color frequently throughout the dog's lifetime, so you may not know the final coat color for several years.

The Cairn Terrier is an energetic, playful and loving breed that was born to hunt. They are quite independent, however, they are devoted to their family. The Cairn Terrier was bred for ratting, and so will have a propensity to dig. They also make good watchdogs, as they will bark when necessary. However, it is not uncommon for the Cairn Terrier to bark simply due to loneliness or boredom. This little breed must be dealt with in firm and consistent manner to avoid development of Small Dog Syndrome. If allow to believe they are in charge, the Cairn Terrier may develop behavioral issues such as stubbornness, guarding, growling, snapping and separation anxiety.

The Cairn Terrier is a cheerful, friendly and loyal breed that makes a fine family companion. They are known to do well and enjoy playing with children. However, they will not tolerate mistreatment and so may not be ideal for families with small children. If you train your children how to behave with your cairn, they will be best friends for life! 

(We personally have NEVER had 1 issue, our Cairns love children. But I have trained my children to respect our dogs and puppies. I do not allow unsupervised interaction. Not because I don't trust our Cairns or our children; it's all about training and imprinting! They must respect and love one another! That has forged an unbreakable bond.  Our Cairns would give their lives for all of us if it were required. That bond once established, it's unbreakable. Train your children as you train your puppy. Give them the resources and knowledge. Give them boundaries. )

Also, due to the Cairn Terrier's love of the hunt, they will be likely to chase small animals whether it be a nuisance in the yard or a family pet. The Cairn Terrier is often referred to as a big dog in a little dog's body. This is because the Cairn Terrier will take on a much larger dog without flinching. This often does not end well for the Cairn Terrier and so they should always be kept on a leash when not in a fenced safe environment.

The Cairn Terrier requires a good deal of regular grooming. Their coat requires brushing several times throughout the week to prevent matting. They should be bathed once a month and brushed while the hair is wet as well. The Cairn Terrier's coat should only be hand stripped and never be cut, as this could damage the coat. Apartment living agrees with the Cairn Terrier, as they are quite active indoors. As long as they are regularly exercised, the Cairn Terrier does not require a yard.

The Cairn Terrier requires a firm but never harsh pack leader. Obedience school is recommended for this breed, as they can be quite stubborn and will exert independence from a timid leader.  

Seriously; training is a must as this beloved family dog will thrive with training! 

Not only can they thrive, they will excel! They are extremely loyal and obedient once trained. In our years of raising and training our beloved Cairns, they have proven over and over how intelligent and obedient they can be. They are very food driven and love treats! They love challenges! We have found along with obedience and a good foundation, they will continue to learn their whole lives! 

The Cairn Terrier is very energetic, so it must have opportunities to run and jump and play. They should be taken on regular daily walks to exert excess energy. Let your Cairn Terrier run in the open countryside, but be sure that the dog is trained to return when you call before doing so.