The Cairn Terrier is a beloved breed known for its lively and intelligent nature. If you're considering adding a Cairn Terrier to your family, it's important to familiarize yourself with the breed standard set by the Cairn Terrier Club of America (CTCA).
The CTCA is the national organization dedicated to promoting and preserving the Cairn Terrier breed. The breed standard is a detailed description of the ideal Cairn Terrier, outlining everything from their size and appearance to their temperament and personality traits.
The breed standard specifies that Cairn Terriers should be small to medium-sized dogs, weighing between 13 and 14 pounds for males and 12 to 13 pounds for females. They should have a weather-resistant coat that is harsh and wiry to the touch, and come in a variety of colors, including wheaten, red, gray, brindle, and black.
In addition to physical characteristics, the breed standard also outlines the desired temperament of a Cairn Terrier. They should be bold, spirited, and tenacious, with a friendly and outgoing disposition. They should also be alert and intelligent, making them easy to train and eager to please.
If you're interested in meeting Cairn Terriers in person, we recommend reaching out to your local Cairn Terrier club. They can provide information about breeders in your area, as well as opportunities to meet and interact with Cairn Terriers at dog shows or other events.
However, it's important to note that breeders may not always be able to accommodate "meet the breed" inquiries due to the delicate nature of caring for puppies and adult dogs. For example, breeders may need to limit foot traffic in their dog or puppy yard to reduce the risk of exposure to viruses.
Visiting a breeder's home or kennel should be approached with the same level of respect and caution as visiting a hospital nursery. While it's important to get to know a breeder and their dogs, it's equally important to prioritize the health and wellbeing of the dogs in their care.
