Cairn Terriers were once bred primarily as hunters, though now they are almost exclusively kept as companions.

Cairn Terriers are devoted and playful, they are compact, and hard working hunters. If well socialized this breed can be good with children. They are not quarrelsome by nature, loving to play and romp around. Cairn Terriers are small enough to be carried anywhere and sturdy enough for roughhousing with children. They will require firm training and early socialization to do well with children and other animals such as cats. Training needs to be consistent and rewarded positively. If well trained, they can make ideal companions for a single person or for a family with children, and they can adapt to city or apartment living. They are vigilant watchdogs, but excessive barking should be controlled from an early age. Active and intelligent, the Cairn Terrier has a working background with a companion's mentality. Like most terriers the Cairn Terrier has an assertive personality. They are big dogs in small bodies.

Cairn Terrier's will grow to a height of nine to ten inches and weigh in between 13 and 14 pounds. They have a broad head with a short, dark muzzle, and a muscular body. For the outer coat to be weather resistant it needs to be harsh, not soft. A soft coat is considered a fault in the show ring. The most common coat colors are cream, wheaten, red, brindle gray, and a dark almost black color. They should never be seen in all white, black and tan or all black. It should be noted that coat color often changes with age.

Originating in the 16th century, the Cairn Terrier originated in Scotland on the Isle of Skye, the Cairn Terrier was named after its primary job of searching through cairns for foxes or badgers. They were also used to hunt rabbits and otters. The Cairn Terrier was originally called the Short Haired Skye Terrier. This became confusing because of the existence of the Skye Terrier, who also originates from the same area.

Cairn Terriers need to be brushed and combed regularly. Like most other terriers, this breed does not shed - they require stripping several times a year. Some pet owners clip instead of stripping and rolling the coat by hand, this is not advised, since this breed is prone to skin problems. Clipping often leads to skin irritation and hotspots.

This breed may be prone to a hereditary disease called globoid cell leukodystrophy this disease is quite serious and can lead to paralysis and death. Some Cairn Terriers suffer from allergies.

This breed needs to be socialized at a young age in order to live well with other animals and children.

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