West Highland White Terrier
VS
Cairn Terrier
West Highland White Terrier vs Cairn Terrier
Compare West Highland White Terrier and Cairn 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
West Highland White Terrier
Cairn Terrier
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
27 – 28 cm
28 – 31 cm
Weight
7 – 9 kg
7 – 8 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 16 years
12 – 17 years
Child friendly
5/5
5/5
Energy level
3/5
3/5
Intelligence
3/5
3/5
Trainability
3/5
4/5
Health
2/5
4/5
Grooming needs
5/5
4/5
Shedding
3/5
1/5
Barking level
4/5
4/5
Aggressiveness
3/5
2/5
Sponsored Ad
Characteristics
West Highland White Terrier
Great with kids
Small
Cairn Terrier
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Summary
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.
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.
Similar breeds
View more
