The Cairn Terrier and the Maltese are two small breeds that were bred together to create the Cairmal. The Cairn Terrier, a working-class dog, and the Maltese, a beloved companion, were mixed to produce this designer breed. The resulting Cairmal is known for its kindness, attentiveness, and joyful nature, making it a wonderful pet. This mix is friendly with both dogs and cats, making it a great choice for households with multiple pets.
While both parent breeds have a long history and evolved in different parts of the world, they first coexisted in Scotland in the 14th century. As a contemporary designer dog, there is limited information available about the origins and development of the Cairmal. To understand potential qualities and general health of the Cairmal, owners should look to the parent breeds for guidance and information.
Below, we look at Cairmal dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Cairmal, characteristics, and must-see facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Cairmals!
| Dog Breed | Cairmal |
| Size | Small |
| Weight | 10-15 lbs (average) |
| Height | 10-13″ (average) |
| Location | United States |
| Ancestry | Cairn Terrier and Maltese |
| Date of Origin | Unknown |
| Group | Companion |
| Life Expectancy | 11-15 years |
| Price | $400 – $600 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The Cairmal is a hybrid breed that combines the Cairn Terrier and Maltese. It is a relatively new breed and does not have a separate history apart from its parent breeds. Since there is no standard for the Cairmal, its appearance and traits can vary, drawing from both parent breeds. Therefore, it is helpful for owners to research the histories of the Cairn Terrier and Maltese to understand the potential characteristics of their Cairmal.
The Cairn Terrier is an ancient Scottish breed that was recognized as a distinct breed in the 19th century. It was differentiated from other Scotch Terriers primarily by its coat color. The ancestors of the Cairn Terrier, known as Scotch Terriers, were described by the Romans in 55 BC as agile hunters that would go underground to catch their prey. These dogs were called Terrarii, which means “workers of the earth” in Latin. The Terrier group thrived in Scotland, England, France, and parts of Germany over the centuries. By the 1900s, the Cairn Terrier had established itself as a wire-haired small Terrier of the Skye group, with various colors accepted except for white, which was reserved for its cousin breed, the West Highland Terrier. It is important to note that the Cairn Terrier is often mistaken for the Scottish Terrier, but they have different genetic backgrounds. The Cairn Terrier got its name from the stone cairns that it was known to hunt.
The Maltese, on the other hand, has always been considered a companion breed and is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean. Evidence of Maltese dogs can be found in ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. The breed made its way to France in the 15th century and was introduced to England during the reign of King Henry VIII. The Maltese quickly became a favorite of noble and royal women, including Queen Elizabeth I, Queen Mary of Scots, and Queen Victoria. While the Maltese is thought to have descended from a Spitz-type dog, it was transformed into the modern-day Maltese we know today through breeding efforts by English breeders.
🐕 Cairmal Appearance
A small to medium-sized cross between the Maltese and the Cairn Terrier, the Cairmal. Your Cairmal will acquire traits similar to the Cairn Terrier, including a wiry coat that can be any color. Since its parents are both little dog breeds, the Cairmal will also look like a small dog. Small and widely spaced are the Cairmal’s eyes, and its semi-erect, triangular-shaped ears. A Cairmal’s nose is normally black, and the hybrid’s head may be adorned with dark masks and points. Like its father, the Cairn Terrier, a Cairmal’s tail is not very long, sits level with the back, and is carried straight up.
| 👀 Eye Color | Varies |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black, White, Cream, Silver, Red, Brindle |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Ranges |
⚡ Fun Fact: Cairmal dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Cairmal
The Cairmal is a wonderful companion dog with a happy, loving nature. This little dog is lively and excitable, displaying traits common to both of its parent breeds. Although the Cairmal is loving with its family, including its offspring, the Maltese parent may make accepting children a little bit more difficult. Living together will be lot simpler if youngsters are properly socialized and taught to respect and play with the Cairmal. This little breed is not a fan of strangers and will be wary and watchful. Because every dog is unique, it’s possible that your Cairmal won’t get along well with other animals. Your Cairmal will be more adaptable to living with other pets if they are well socialized as children and are exposed to other canines and pets on a regular basis.
🤝 Are Cairmals Friendly or Aggressive?
Cairmal dogs are known for being social and friendly with other pets, including cats and other dogs. They are also comfortable around strangers and are typically good with children, making them a suitable choice for families with kids. Additionally, Cairmals can be a great option for those who want to have multiple dogs or participate in dog meetups. They are often recommended for elderly individuals due to their calm and gentle nature.
This breed is known for being:
- Playful
- Friendly
- Affectionate
- Loyal
🐩 Cairmal Care & Maintenance
The Cairmal does not shed at all but is not a hypoallergenic dog. To avoid tangles and mats, the longer hair has to be brushed every day. Tear staining is a problem for the Maltese parent as well, and lighter colored Cairmals may require eye cleaning to avoid staining as well. Once a stain is applied on hair, it cannot be removed. Long hair around the ears and on top of them may draw and collect dirt. Your Cairmal’s ear infections can be avoided with routine use of an ear cleaning solution authorized by your veterinarian. The Cairmal is not renowned for drooling much, but frequent brushing will assist to clear its coat of dirt and detritus. Although this tiny mix is not recognized for the fragrance either, keeping your coat and ears clean can help prevent any “doggy” odor. Depending on which parent breed they most closely resemble, cairmals can have medium to high activity levels and need regular moderate-intensity exercise. They are easy to train since they are intelligent and eager to please.
Cairmal dogs are known for being low shedders, meaning they do not lose a lot of hair. This is a normal part of their hair growth cycle. The amount and frequency of hair loss can vary depending on the dog’s overall health and the specific breed they belong to. In terms of bathing, Cairmal dogs typically require a bath every 3-4 weeks.
🍖 Food: We recommend 1 cups daily, costing you about $0.75 – $1.00 daily, or around $20.00 – $30.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Cairmal dogs exercise need is minimal. If you live a slow life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 6 miles per week, which equates to about 30 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Cairmal dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
❤️🩹 Cairmal Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Cairmal Dog Breed can be:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Legg-Calve Perthes Disease
- Testicular Tumors (males)
While minor concerns include:
- Patellar Luxation
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Hypothyroidism
🤧 Important: Is Cairmal hypoallergenic? Yes.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Cairmal.
⚡ Cairmal Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Cairmal a great choice for families with young children?
The Cairmal is a great choice for families with young children because they are affectionate and cheerful, making them good companions for kids. However, proper socialization and teaching children how to interact with the Cairmal is important to ensure a harmonious relationship.
Is the Cairmal breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
Yes, the Cairmal breed is considered suitable for apartment living. Being a small-sized breed, they can adapt well to living in smaller spaces. However, they still require regular exercise to maintain their energy levels.
How much exercise does a Cairmal require compared to other breeds?
Cairmals require a moderate amount of exercise compared to some other breeds. Daily walks and playtime are sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.
Is the Cairmal breed known for being good with other pets?
The Cairmal breed is known for being good with other pets, including cats. However, each dog is unique, so proper socialization with other animals is important to ensure compatibility.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Cairmal?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Cairmal include the Bichon Frise, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and Shih Tzu. These breeds also have a friendly and affectionate disposition.
What are the common health issues that Cairmals are prone to?
Common health issues that Cairmals may be prone to include dental problems, allergies, patellar luxation, and eye issues. However, since the Cairmal is a mix breed, their health can vary depending on the genetics inherited from the parent breeds.
Are Cairmals known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Cairmals are generally intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Consistent and positive reinforcement methods work well with this breed.
Are Cairmals more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Cairmals can be prone to separation anxiety if not properly trained and socialized. Like many small companion breeds, they thrive on human companionship and may become anxious when left alone for long periods.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Cairmal that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Cairmal that are suitable for people with allergies include the Bichon Frise, Poodle, and Yorkshire Terrier. These breeds are known to have hypoallergenic coats.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Cairmal are best for individuals or families with limited space?
For individuals or families with limited space, small-sized dogs similar to the Cairmal are the best choice. Breeds such as the Cairmal, Chihuahua, and Pomeranian are suitable for living in apartments or smaller homes.
Is the Cairmal breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Cairmal breed can be good with children with special needs, but it is important to assess the specific needs of the child and the temperament of the individual Cairmal. Proper supervision and training are key to ensure a safe and positive interaction.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Cairmal?
The grooming needs of the Cairmal are moderate. They have a long, silky coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting. Additionally, they may require periodic professional grooming to maintain their coat’s health and appearance. However, they are not heavy shedders compared to some other breeds.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Cairmal dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
