Cairn Terrier
VS
West Highland White Terrier
Cairn Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier
Compare Cairn Terrier and West Highland White 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
West Highland White Terrier
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
28 – 31 cm
27 – 28 cm
Weight
7 – 8 kg
7 – 9 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 17 years
12 – 16 years
Child friendly
5/5
5/5
Energy level
3/5
3/5
Intelligence
3/5
3/5
Trainability
4/5
3/5
Health
4/5
2/5
Grooming needs
4/5
5/5
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
West Highland White Terrier
Great with kids
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 West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier is a small, sturdy Scottish terrier with a harsh white coat that sheds lightly. Confident, vocal and independent yet affectionate, it suits city or country homes. Needs daily walks, mental stimulation, regular grooming and consistent, reward‑based training.
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