Cairn Terrier

The Cairn Terrier is a relatively new dog breed, but it’s the oldest pure British terrier. The exact origin of the breed is unknown. There are two theories about its place of origin. They claim that the present-day Cairn Terrier came from the Highland of Scotland and from the Isle of Skye. Small terriers have been common to Great Britain since the 15th century. They were used for hunting foxes, badgers and other animals underground. Terriers were famous for their ability to dig and get into narrow holes.

The Cairn Terrier was originally used for killing vermin that raided farm fields and resided in heaps of stones (cairns) that marked Scottish farm borders. For many centuries, these dogs were selected for their working abilities, but not for temperament or appearance. It resulted in producing small, agile, courageous, strong, and independent dogs able to fight predators larger than themselves. The only exception was undesirable red coat color of the Cairn Terrier. If a red dog bolted a fox, it would be difficult for the master to shoot the fox.

In the early 20th century, the Cairn Terrier was known under the name Short-haired Skye Terrier. Fanciers of the Skye Terrier, an established breed, objected to the breed name and the Cairn Terrier got its present-day name. The breed became very popular in 1930s. Today, the Cairn Terrier retains most of its working abilities, but it serves mostly as a family companion. The main talents of this breed are Go-To-Ground trials, tracking, agility, obedience, performing tricks, hunting small game, and watchdogging.

This breed needs no sophisticated grooming or professional trimming. Its natural-looking coat needs minimal care to look neat. The life expectancy for the Cairn Terrier is 13-15 years. These dogs stay lively and playful in their teens and do well with children of all ages. Daily walks are essential for these active and curious dogs. If a Cairn Terrier has an opportunity to play with children, it needs no additional exercise, but if a dog is left on its own in the daytime, it needs much exercise to burn off its excessive energy.