Everything You Need to Know About Cairn Terrier Puppies

Getting a Cairn Terrier puppy is a big decision, and for good reason - they're adorable, feisty, and full of personality!

Cairn Terrier puppies are born after a gestation period of about 63 days, which is relatively short compared to other breeds.

Their eyes are typically blue, but can also be brown or even heterochromatic, which means one blue and one brown eye.

Cairn Terrier puppies start teething around 3-4 months old, which can be a challenging time for both puppy and owner.

Cairn Terrier puppies are small in stature, typically standing between 9.5 to 10 inches tall at the shoulders.

The height difference between males and females is minimal, with males measuring 10 inches and females 9.5 inches tall.

A healthy Cairn Terrier puppy will weigh between 13 and 14 pounds, depending on whether it's a female or male.

Here's a quick comparison of the average weights for male and female Cairn Terriers:

The Cairn Terrier's general appearance is quite distinctive and hasn't changed much over time. Its body is compact and of medium length, with a level back. The breed's overall build is well-proportioned, making it easily recognizable.

The Cairn Terrier has sloping shoulders, deep and well-sprung ribs, strong muscular thighs, and a good bend of stifle. These characteristics support its working role as a hunter of vermin in tight spaces.

The Cairn Terrier is a small breed, standing around 9.5 to 10 inches tall at the shoulders. Its size can vary, so it's essential to acquire one from a reputable breeder.

The breed's front paws are well-padded and larger than its rear paws, giving the dogs an advantage while digging for rodents. This unique feature is a result of the breed's original purpose as a vermin hunter.

Here's a comparison of the Cairn Terrier's height and weight:

The Cairn Terrier's size and weight can vary, so it's best to consult with breeders who produce dogs that fit within the desired specifications.

The Cairn Terrier's coat is quite unique, consisting of a wiry, harsh, and profuse outer coat that's free from coarseness.

This outer coat is designed to be weather-resistant, protecting the dog from the elements. The undercoat, on the other hand, is soft and short, providing a layer of warmth and comfort.

The hair on the head may be softer than the body coat, but it's still harsh enough to offer protection from the sun, wind, and other harsh weather conditions.

The Cairn Terrier puppy's coat comes in a wide variety of colors, and it's essential to know what to look for. The standard colors for a Cairn Terrier include Brindle, Cream, Gray, Gray Brindle, Red, Red Brindle, Silver, Wheaten, Cream Brindle, Black, Black Brindle, Red Wheaten, Silver Brindle, Wheaten Brindle, and Silver Wheaten.

Dark points on the ears and muzzle are very typical, as is brindling on any acceptable color. The coat can be any color except white, solid black, or black and tan.

The table below lists the standard colors for a Cairn Terrier:

Cairn Terriers are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. The average lifespan of a Cairn Terrier is 13 to 15 years, but with proper care and regular check-ups, many can thrive even beyond these years.

Some common health issues that can affect Cairn Terriers include craniomandibular osteopathy, cryptorchidism, globoid cell leukodystrophy, hypothyroidism, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, patellar luxation, ocular melanosis/secondary glaucoma, and portosystemic liver shunt.

A study published in JAVMA in 2003 found that Cairn Terriers are 10.7 times more likely than all other breeds to be at risk for portosystemic shunts. This condition requires surgical correction and can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Here are some potential health risks to be aware of:

It's essential to work with a reputable breeder who has had their breeding dogs tested for these conditions and can provide written documentation. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care can also help prevent or detect these health issues early on.

The Cairn Terrier is generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain genetic health issues. Some of the most common health problems found in Cairn Terriers include bronchoesophageal fistula, cataracts, and hip dysplasia.

A 2015 French study found a life expectancy of 13.42 years for Cairn Terriers, while a 2024 UK study found a life expectancy of 14 years for the breed. This is compared to an average of 12.7 years for purebred dogs and 12 years for crossbred dogs.

Cairn Terriers are also predisposed to atopic dermatitis, a skin condition that can cause itching and scratching. They may also be prone to eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy.

Some of the specific health risks that Cairn Terriers may face include craniomandibular osteopathy, cryptorchidism, and globoid cell leukodystrophy. These conditions can be treated with surgery, medication, or other forms of therapy.

Broaden your view: Welsh Terrier Life Span

Here are some of the most common health issues that affect Cairn Terriers, along with their risk profile and estimated cost to diagnose and treat:

It's essential to work with a reputable breeder who has had their dogs tested for genetic health issues and to keep up with regular veterinary check-ups to catch any potential problems early on.

Cairn Terriers are considered to be a low to moderate shedding breed.

Regular grooming and brushing can help to manage the hair loss, especially for pet Cairns.

Their shedding is not excessive, but it's still important to keep up with regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

Pet owners can also consider regular visits to professional groomers to help manage their Cairn Terrier's shedding.

Cairn Terriers particularly benefit from regular grooming and brushing, which can help to reduce shedding and prevent hair loss.

When choosing the right foods for your furry friend, it's essential to know what to avoid. Grains like wheat and corn can be toxic to your Cairn terrier, so it's best to steer clear of them.

Some foods to completely rule out of your dog's diet include soy and white rice. Acidic foods can also be problematic for some dogs, so it's best to check with your vet before introducing them.

Onion, garlic, and citrus fruits are all off-limits for your Cairn terrier. These foods contain compounds that can be toxic to dogs, so it's crucial to keep them out of reach.

Chocolate and ice-cream are also no-nos for your furry friend. The high sugar content and other ingredients in these treats can cause more harm than good.

Here are some common foods to avoid in your Cairn terrier's diet: