Cairn Terrier
Cairn Terrier
VS
Hovawart
Hovawart

Cairn Terrier vs Hovawart

Compare Cairn Terrier and Hovawart 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
Cairn Terrier
Hovawart
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
28 – 31 cm
58 – 70 cm
Weight
7 – 8 kg
25 – 50 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 17 years
10 – 14 years
Child friendly
5/5
4/5
Energy level
3/5
4/5
Intelligence
3/5
4/5
Trainability
4/5
4/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
4/5
2/5
Shedding
1/5
3/5
Barking level
4/5
3/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
4/5
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Characteristics

Cairn Terrier
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Hovawart
Great with kids
High energy
Super smart
Low grooming
Protective
Easy to train
Giant

Summary

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.
About Hovawart
Large, powerful German farm guardian with medium‑long weatherproof coat in black, black and tan or blond. Deeply loyal, calm and family‑focused, but reserved with strangers and strongly territorial. Intelligent, independent and late‑maturing, needing consistent training, mental work and ample exercise.

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