Cairn Terrier
VS
Shetland Sheepdog
Cairn Terrier vs Shetland Sheepdog
Compare Cairn Terrier and Shetland Sheepdog 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
Shetland Sheepdog
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
28 – 31 cm
35 – 37 cm
Weight
7 – 8 kg
6 – 12 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 17 years
12 – 13 years
Child friendly
5/5
3/5
Energy level
3/5
4/5
Intelligence
3/5
5/5
Trainability
4/5
3/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
4/5
4/5
Shedding
1/5
5/5
Barking level
4/5
5/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
2/5
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Characteristics
Cairn Terrier
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Shetland Sheepdog
High energy
Super smart
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 Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog is a small to medium, agile herding breed with a dense double coat and striking colors. Bright, sensitive, and very people focused, it bonds closely with family, is reserved with strangers, excels in dog sports, and needs regular grooming, daily walks, and mental exercise.
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