Comparison: Cairn Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Cairn Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier are marked as similar in our database. The table compares only the data we have on the breeds.

Cairn Terrier
Photo: John, CC BY 2.0, source
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Photo: Canarian, CC BY-SA 4.0, source
Cairn TerrierDandie Dinmont Terrier
FCI group3. Terriers3. Terriers
Country of originUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom
CategorySmallVery small (toy)
Height at withers28–31 cm20–28 cm
Weight6–7.5 kg8–11 kg
Life span13–15 years–
Recognition features
  • Harsh double coat in cream to dark grey
  • Small fox-like head with pointed ears
  • About 30 cm tall, bushy tail carried up
  • Large domed head with silky topknot and big, wise eyes
  • Long, low, weasel-like body on short strong legs
  • Coat in "pepper" or "mustard"
CoatHarsh double coat; cream, wheaten, red, grey.Double coat with soft linty undercoat and harder topcoat lying in "pencils", about 5 cm; pepper (dark blue-black to silver-grey) or mustard (reddish brown to pale fawn).
PurposeFrom the Scottish Highlands, hunting vermin among piles of stones (cairns).Low-set British terrier originally used on otter and fox; today a companion with a distinctive topknot.

Breed page: Cairn Terrier · Breed page: Dandie Dinmont Terrier

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The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard.