Australian Terrier vs Cairn Terrier
Compare Australian Terrier and Cairn Terrier side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
Australian Terrier
Cairn Terrier
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
21 – 25 cm
28 – 31 cm
Weight
5 – 7 kg
7 – 8 kg
Life expectancy
10 – 16 years
12 – 17 years
Child friendly
4/5
5/5
Energy level
3/5
3/5
Intelligence
3/5
3/5
Trainability
3/5
4/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
3/5
4/5
Shedding
3/5
1/5
Barking level
4/5
4/5
Aggressiveness
3/5
2/5
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Characteristics
Australian Terrier
Great with kids
Tiny
Cairn Terrier
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Summary
About Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is a small, sturdy working terrier with a harsh, weatherproof coat and soft topknot. Bred in Australia as a vermin controller and companion, it is confident, lively, people‑oriented, a devoted watchdog, needing moderate exercise and regular, simple grooming.
About Cairn Terrier
Small, sturdy Scottish terrier bred to hunt among rocky cairns. Around 28–31 cm tall with a harsh, weatherproof double coat needing regular stripping and brushing. Bold, curious, affectionate, and vocal; enjoys daily walks, mental stimulation, and active family life. Generally hardy and long-lived.
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