West Highland White Terrier vs. Cairn Terrier: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: West Highland White Terrier or Cairn Terrier?

4 / 5

West Highland White Terrier has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

3 / 5

Cairn Terrier has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are West Highland White Terriers or Cairn Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Both West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier are hypoallergenic dogs, which make them ideal pets for people who are allergic to pets. Although no dogs are completely hypoallergenic, these breeds come very close and are great choices for those who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier dogs?

Affectionate
Courageous
Friendly
Independent
Alert
Intelligent

Active
Courageous
Intelligent
Assertive
Fearless

Shedding Level

Do West Highland White Terriers shed more than Cairn Terriers, or which breed sheds more, West Highland White Terriers or Cairn Terriers?

1 / 5

West Highland White Terriers shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

3 / 5

Cairn Terriers are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the West Highland White Terrier or Cairn Terrier?

3 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

4 / 5

Cairn Terriers make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Origin

What is the origin of West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier dog breeds?

Scotland

Scotland

Ancestry

What are the origins of West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier breeds?

scottish, skye, dandie dinmont, and cairn terriers

Scottish Terrier, West Highland White Terrier, Skye Terrier

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Club Espanol De Terriers

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Club Espanol De Terriers

Date of Birth

When were West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier breeds first developed?

1800s

1500s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier?

Terrier (AKC:1908)(UKC)

Terrier (AKC:1913 & UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier breeds?

White

Cream
Black
Brindle
Gray
Red

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier breeds?

3 / 5

The coat of West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier dogs falls in the medium-length category.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier?

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier?

Straight

Wiry

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier?

A West Highland White Terrier can have a litter of 12-16 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Cairn Terrier can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

3 / 5

Cairn Terriers have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Health Issues

Between West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier, which breed is more prone to health problems?

5 / 5

The West Highland White Terrier breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

2 / 5

Cairn Terriers are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier breeds?

Inguinal Hernias
Copper Toxicosis
Addison's Disease
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Flea Allergy

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier?

Craniomandibular Osteopathy

Weight Gain

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier breeds?

Hip
Knee
Blood Test
X-Rays
Physical Examination

Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Allergy Tests

Energy

How do the energy levels of West Highland White Terriers and Cairn Terriers compare?

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

5 / 5

Cairn Terriers thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Social Needs

West Highland White Terrier vs Cairn Terrier social needs comparison

4 / 5

West Highland White Terrier has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

5 / 5

Cairn Terrier has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Exercise Needed

West Highland White Terrier vs Cairn Terrier exercise need comparison.

4 / 5

The West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier breeds need significant physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are well-suited for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy activities such as running, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: West Highland White Terrier or Cairn Terrier?

2 / 5

West Highland White Terriers sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

1 / 5

Cairn Terriers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, West Highland White Terrier or Cairn Terrier?

1 / 5

The West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do West Highland White Terriers or Cairn Terriers bark more/less frequently?

5 / 5

West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier dogs bark and howl frequently, they are not a good fit for quiet homes.

Territorial

Is the West Highland White Terrier or Cairn Terrier a better guard dog?

5 / 5

West Highland White Terrier dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

3 / 5

While Cairn Terrier dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: West Highland White Terrier vs Cairn Terrier?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Roaming urge

West Highland White Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

Prey Drive

West Highland White Terrier or Cairn Terrier - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier entertained?

Belly rubs, Walking, Petting, Playing, Nap, Walk, Play, Run, Walking slow, Daily walks, River rafting, Camping, Hike

Socializing, Eating Snacks, Walking, Fetch, Playing, Running, Chasing, Barking, Snuggling, Walk, Play with ball, Jump, Run, Chew, Sniffing, Marking

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, West Highland White Terriers or Cairn Terriers?

Both West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

2 / 5

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should West Highland White Terrier or Cairn Terrier walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For West Highland White Terrier, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Cairn Terrier, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do West Highland White Terriers or Cairn Terriers require more exercise?

In general most West Highland White Terriers usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Cairn Terriers usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, West Highland White Terriers or Cairn Terriers?

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

3 / 5

The Cairn Terrier requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier dogs?

West Highland White Terrier should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

In general Cairn Terrier should be brushed at least once a month. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes, especially if they enjoyed it

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for West Highland White Terriers and Cairn Terriers?

Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Comb
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to West Highland White Terrier or Cairn Terrier in cups?

For an average 15-21 pound (7 - 10 kg) West Highland White Terrier feed 1.8 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 12-14 pound (5 - 6 kg) Cairn Terrier feed 1.3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, West Highland White Terrier or Cairn Terrier?

The average cost of a West Highland White Terrier is somewhere $1.40 - $1.40 per day.

The average cost of a Cairn Terrier is somewhere $1.40 - $1.80 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, West Highland White Terrier or Cairn Terrier?

When it comes to monthly expenses, both West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier have a similar average cost, ranging from $35 - $42. This results in an average yearly cost of around $420 - $504.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: West Highland White Terriers vs Cairn Terriers

3 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

4 / 5

Cairn Terrier is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

3 / 5

Cairn Terriers have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: West Highland White Terrier vs Cairn Terrier?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: West Highland White Terrier or Cairn Terrier?

3 / 5

West Highland White Terriers and Cairn Terriers are dogs that do well in apartments with sufficient exercise, but they would really appreciate a small yard.

Child Friendly

Do West Highland White Terriers or Cairn Terriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - West Highland White Terrier or Cairn Terrier?

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do West Highland White Terrier or Cairn Terrier breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

3 / 5

West Highland White Terriers and Cairn Terriers are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: West Highland White Terrier or Cairn Terrier?

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

3 / 5

Cairn Terriers are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do West Highland White Terrier or Cairn Terrier dogs interact with other pets?

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: West Highland White Terrier or Cairn Terrier?

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

3 / 5

Cairn Terriers are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier?

5 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

4 / 5

Cairn Terriers are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of West Highland White Terriers and Cairn Terriers compare?

4 / 5

West Highland White Terrier and Cairn Terrier dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.