Cairn Terrier
VS
Rat Terrier
Cairn Terrier vs Rat Terrier
Compare Cairn Terrier and Rat 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
Cairn Terrier
Rat Terrier
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
28 – 31 cm
25 – 46 cm
Weight
7 – 8 kg
5 – 10 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 17 years
15 – 18 years
Child friendly
5/5
3/5
Energy level
3/5
3/5
Intelligence
3/5
3/5
Trainability
4/5
3/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
4/5
1/5
Shedding
1/5
3/5
Barking level
4/5
4/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
3/5
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Characteristics
Cairn Terrier
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Rat Terrier
Low grooming
Small
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 Rat Terrier
The Rat Terrier is an American‑bred, small to medium, athletic farm and vermin dog. Intelligent and energetic, it thrives on training, exercise, and close family contact. With a short, low‑maintenance coat in many pied colors, it suits active homes and excels in various dog sports.
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