Terrier Dog Breeds and Puppies

Archive for the ‘Cairn Terrier’ Category

Cairn terriers are related to the Westie or the West Highland White. It is presumed to be a sub-breed of the Scottish terrier. A Westie is obtained when a variety of white terriers are crossed with the Cairn terriers of west Scotland. The Westie, therefore, is a white variant of the Cairn terriers that come in a variety of colors except white. On the other hand, Scotties, or the descendants of the short-haired Skyes, have dark coats and longer bodies and heads.

The Scottish terriers comprise two categories: the Dandie Dinmont terriers and the Skye terriers. While the Dandie Dinmonts form a separate breed of their own, the Skye terriers include the Westies, the Scotties, and the Cairns. The smallest of all these terriers is the Cairn.

The breed gets its name from the small piles of stone that were placed to mark the boundaries of Scottish graves and farms. Ever since its earliest days, the Cairn was used to corner smaller animals into these small piles of rock. Though not heavy, the breed is sturdy and strong.

The appearance of “Toto,” Dorothy’s dog in the “Wizard of Oz,” enhanced the popularity of this breed. Cairn terriers are now popular as companions just as the American Pit Bull terriers. The breed has a talent for tracking objects, guarding the house, hunting, performing tricks, and competitive games.

The breed was specially christened “Cairn” in 1912 in honor of its exceptional talent in hunting down otters, foxes, and badgers that hid behind cairns, or small piles of rock. The American Kennel Club officially recognized them in 1913.

The little terrier dog, in very general terms, are very brave and confident dogs. Most of these dogs need lots of attention and can not be left alone for long periods of time because they can be very destructive.

Although most of these dogs are known to be a bit ’stubborn as they tend to have minds of their own, can be trained fairly easily. You will find great joy in their training. Despite this, some breeds like the Boston Terrier can be very difficult to house train and therefore appeal to a lot of patience on your part.

Small dogs are generally burrow alert and guard dogs that makes them very well. Although they are friendly, some breeds can be aggressive especially if you do not know them and have time to get used to. A good example of how a dog is the Australian Terrier. Contrary to this, some breeds like the Border Terrier is very friendly with strangers and good, very good with children.

These types of dogs have high energy levels and, although they can be active at home, need to be exposed to outdoor exercise. Although many of them do not bark unless you have a reason to do so, some breeds like the brazilian terrier barking too much and may need to be reassured that all is well