The Cairn Terrier and Havanese are both small-sized breeds that were bred together to create the Cairnese. The Havanese, a unique breed from Cuba, was produced before the 1959 Cuban Revolution. It is a companion dog and a member of the Bichon family. On the other hand, the Cairn Terrier is an earth dog and known for hunting vermin. The Cairnese inherits intelligence from both parents, making them smart and quick learners. In terms of appearance, the Cairnese mostly resembles its Havanese parent. They are known for being friendly and make great companions for families.
In summary, the Cairnese is a mix between the Cairn Terrier and Havanese breeds. The Havanese originated in Cuba and is a companion dog, while the Cairn Terrier is an earth dog and vermin hunter. The Cairnese inherits intelligence from both parents and is known for its friendly nature. It closely resembles its Havanese parent in terms of appearance and is a happy addition to any family.
Ahead, we look at Cairnese dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Cairnese, characteristics, and must-see facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and a lot more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Cairneses!
| Dog Breed | Cairnese |
| Size | Small |
| Weight | 10-20 lbs (average) |
| Height | 8-13″ (average) |
| Location | United States |
| Ancestry | Cairn Terrier, Havanese |
| Date of Origin | 1990s |
| Group | Companion |
| Life Expectancy | 14-16 years |
| Price | $700 – $1000 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The Cairnese is a relatively new hybrid dog that is a mix of the Cairn Terrier and the Havanese. While the breed itself does not have a long history, breeders have been intentionally crossbreeding these two parent breeds since the 1990s. However, there is currently limited information available about the Cairnese, so potential owners should take the time to research and understand the histories and characteristics of the Cairn Terrier and the Havanese to get a better idea of what to expect from this mix.
The Cairn Terrier is an ancient breed of Scotch Terriers that became recognized as a separate breed in the 19th century. It is distinguished from its other Scotch Terrier relatives by its coat color. The Cairn Terrier’s ancestor, the Scotch Terrier, was first described by the Romans in 55 BC as small, agile hunters that would go after their prey underground. The Romans called them Terrarii, which means “workers of the earth” in Latin. Over the centuries, Terriers thrived in Scotland, England, France, and parts of Germany, establishing themselves as earth dogs. By the 1900s, the Cairn Terrier had become a well-established wire-haired small Terrier within the Skye group, coming in various colors except for white, which was reserved for its cousin breed, the West Highland Terrier. It’s important to note that the Cairn Terrier is often mistaken for the Scottish Terrier, but the two breeds have different genetic backgrounds, with the Cairn Terrier having a more limited gene pool due to its origins on the Isle of Skye. The Cairn Terrier got its name from the stone monuments it was known to hunt around.
The Havanese, on the other hand, is a rare breed that was developed in Cuba. Bichon-type dogs were brought to Cuba by Spanish settlers in the 15th century, and over hundreds of years, they were selectively bred and isolated on the island. By the mid-1900s, the breed had gained popularity among Cuban aristocrats and caught the attention of Europeans, who eventually imported the breed. However, the Cuban Revolution posed a threat to the existence of the Havanese, and today, all Havanese dogs outside of Cuba can be traced back to just 11 distinct individuals. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Havanese breed in 1996.
🐕 Cairnese Appearance
A small-sized cross between the Cairn Terrier and the Havanese, the Cairnese. Your Cairnese will weigh between 10 and 20 pounds and stand between 8 and 13 inches tall. The Cairnese has short, triangular-shaped ears that droop over and tiny, robust legs. The Cairnese dog has dark, somewhat larger-than-the-Cairn Terrier eyes that have a cheerful expression and bushy eyebrows that further the smile. A Cairnese’s black nose is rounded and has a medium length snout. A Cairnese’s tail is full, similar to the Havanese, yet short, similar to the Cairn Terrier.
| 👀 Eye Color | Varies |
| 🐽 Nose Color | N/A |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Ranges |
⚡ Fun Fact: Cairnese 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 Cairnese
The Cairnese is an energetic companion dog. A somewhat sensitive dog, this mix is affectionate with its family, particularly kids, and does not accept being left alone for an extended period of time. The Cairnese likes the company of other dogs and pets and is amiable and inviting to strangers. The Havanese parent has less energy than the Cairn Terrier does. However, regular exercise is necessary and is as important for energizing the Cairnese’s brains. The Cairnese have modest exercise requirements. The Havanese parent balances the Cairn Terrier’s tendency toward independence, which makes this cross simpler to teach despite the breed’s sometimes-stubborn nature.
🤝 Are Cairneses Friendly or Aggressive?
Cairnese dogs are known for their friendly nature towards other pets, strangers, and children. They enjoy being in the company of kids and can get along well with cats and other dogs. If you are looking to add more dogs to your family or participate in dog meetups, the Cairnese breed is a great option. Additionally, Cairneses are considered to be one of the best breeds for elderly individuals.
This breed is known for being:
- Active
- Playful
- Courageous
- Intelligent
- Responsive
- Affectionate
- Lively
- Gentle
- Fearless
- Companionable
- Assertive
- Sturdy
- Amiable
- Charming
🐩 Cairnese Care & Maintenance
Based on the parent breed it most closely resembles, the Cairnese sheds low to moderately and is not hypoallergenic. The Cairn Terrier sheds more than the Havanese, who does not. To avoid tangles and mats, the Cairnese’s medium-length hair has to be brushed every day. Regularly washing your Cairnese’s ears with a solution prescribed by your veterinarian can help to prevent ear infections, and brushing your dog’s teeth at least twice a week will assist to prevent dental problems and keep his mouth healthy. Although this mix is not known to smell, the Cairnese does not drool very much, and keeping his coat and teeth clean can assist with any “doggy” stench that could occur. Cairneses have medium to high activity levels and moderate intensity demands. They can resemble either the Cairn Terrier or the Havanese. This combination demands daily moderate-intensity activity. They are intelligent canines, but the Cairn Terrier father gave them a little of independence and stubbornness, which makes training the Cairnese a little more challenging if he looks anything like the Cairn Terrier.
Cairnese dogs are known for being low shedders, which means they don’t lose much hair. This is a natural part of their hair growth cycle. The amount and frequency of hair loss can vary depending on the dog’s health and the specific breed they belong to. In terms of bathing, Cairnese dogs typically require a bath every 3-4 weeks to keep their coat clean and healthy.
🍖 Food: We recommend few cups daily, costing you about $0.49 – $1.49 daily, or approximately $30.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Cairnese dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly few miles per week, which equates to about 15 – 35 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: Cairnese dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn’t the perfect choice for you.
❤️🩹 Cairnese Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Cairnese Dog Breed can be:
- Hip Dysplasia
While minor concerns include:
- Patellar Luxation
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
🤧 Important: Is Cairnese hypoallergenic? Yes.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Cairnese.
⚡ Cairnese Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Cairnese a great choice for families with young children?
The Cairnese’s affectionate and cheerful disposition makes it a great choice for families with young children. They are known to be good with children and enjoy their company.
Is the Cairnese breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
Yes, the Cairnese breed is considered suitable for apartment living. Despite their high energy levels, they can adapt to smaller living spaces as long as they receive regular exercise and mental stimulation.
How much exercise does a Cairnese require compared to other breeds?
The Cairnese requires moderate intensity exercise compared to other breeds. While they have higher energy levels than the Havanese parent, they do not require as much exercise as the Cairn Terrier.
Is the Cairnese breed known for being good with other pets?
Yes, the Cairnese breed is known for being good with other pets. They love the companionship of other dogs and pets and are generally friendly and welcoming towards strangers.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Cairnese?
Other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Cairnese include the Havanese and Bichon Frise. These breeds also have similar grooming and exercise needs.
What are the common health issues that Cairneses are prone to?
Common health issues that Cairneses are prone to include allergies, dental problems, and patellar luxation. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper care can help prevent or manage these issues.
Are Cairneses known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Cairneses are generally easy to train compared to other breeds. While the Cairn Terrier can be stubborn, the influence of the Havanese parent makes this mix easier to train.
Are Cairneses more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Cairneses can be prone to separation anxiety, especially if left alone for long periods. They are moderately sensitive dogs and prefer the company of their family members.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Cairnese that are suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, there are dog breeds similar to the Cairnese that are suitable for people with allergies. The Havanese, Bichon Frise, and other Bichon family breeds are often considered hypoallergenic.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Cairnese are best for individuals or families with limited space?
Smaller sizes of dogs similar to the Cairnese, such as the Havanese or Bichon Frise, are best for individuals or families with limited space. These breeds are small and can adapt well to smaller living areas.
Is the Cairnese breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Cairnese breed is known to be good with children, including those with special needs. They are generally gentle and patient, making them a suitable choice for families with children with special needs.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Cairnese?
The grooming needs of the Cairnese can vary. They have a medium-length double coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting. While they do shed, it is not excessive. Compared to other breeds, their grooming needs are considered moderate.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Cairnese dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
