Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds — temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.
| Cairn Terrier | Scottish Terrier | |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Terrier | Terrier |
| Origin | Scotland | Scotland |
| Weight | 6–7 kg | 8–10 kg |
| Height | 23–25 cm | 25 cm |
| Lifespan | 13–15 years | 11–13 years |
| Energy level | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Good with kids | ||
| Good with other pets | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Watchdog instinct | ||
| Novice-owner OK |
Friendly, alert, courageous, sometimes stubborn. Excellent with families. Strong prey drive.
60 minutes of daily exercise plus play.
Weather-resistant double coat. Hand-strip every 8–10 weeks; weekly brush.
Globoid cell leukodystrophy (DNA test). Patellar luxation. Allergies.
Full Cairn Terrier profile →Independent, dignified, alert, determined. Scotties bond closely with family but are aloof with strangers and can be reactive with other dogs.
45 minutes of daily walking plus mental work.
Wire double coat. Hand-strip or clip every 8 weeks.
Scottie cramp. Bladder cancer (over-represented). Von Willebrand's. Craniomandibular osteopathy.
Full Scottish Terrier profile →Active families, country / suburban homes.
Single-pet households, experienced terrier owners.
