Cairn Terrier vs Shiba Inu
Compare Cairn Terrier and Shiba Inu 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
Shiba Inu
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
28 – 31 cm
36 – 42 cm
Weight
7 – 8 kg
7 – 11 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 17 years
12 – 15 years
Child friendly
5/5
3/5
Energy level
3/5
3/5
Intelligence
3/5
3/5
Trainability
4/5
2/5
Health
4/5
3/5
Grooming needs
4/5
3/5
Shedding
1/5
5/5
Barking level
4/5
3/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
3/5
Sponsored Ad
Characteristics
Cairn Terrier
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Shiba Inu
Stubborn
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 Shiba Inu
Ancient Japanese spitz-type hunting dog, small yet muscular with foxlike face, curled tail and plush double coat in red, black and tan or sesame with urajiro. Independent, catlike, loyal but reserved, strong-willed, high prey drive, needs early socialisation, firm positive training and regular exercise.
Similar breeds
View more










