Cairn Terrier vs. Wire Fox Terrier: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Cairn Terrier or Wire Fox Terrier?

3 / 5

Cairn Terrier has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

2 / 5

Wire Fox Terrier has average obesity risk, needs balanced diet, daily walks, and weight monitoring.

Hypoallergenic

Are Cairn Terriers or Wire Fox Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Both Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier are hypoallergenic dogs, which make them ideal pets for people who are allergic to pets. Although no dogs are completely hypoallergenic, these breeds come very close and are great choices for those who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier dogs?

Active
Courageous
Intelligent
Assertive
Fearless

Alert
Fearless
Keen
Intelligent
Bold
Friendly
Quick

Shedding Level

Do Cairn Terriers shed more than Wire Fox Terriers, or which breed sheds more, Cairn Terriers or Wire Fox Terriers?

3 / 5

Cairn Terriers are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

1 / 5

Wire Fox Terriers shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Cairn Terrier or Wire Fox Terrier?

4 / 5

Cairn Terriers make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

3 / 5

Wire Fox Terriers are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Origin

What is the origin of Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier dog breeds?

Scotland

England

Ancestry

What are the origins of Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier breeds?

Scottish Terrier, West Highland White Terrier, Skye Terrier

rough-coated black and tan terrier

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Club Espanol De Terriers

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Club Espanol De Terriers

Date of Birth

When were Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier breeds first developed?

1500s

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier?

Terrier (AKC:1913 & UKC)

Terrier (AKC:1885 & UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier breeds?

Cream
Black
Brindle
Gray
Red

Black
Red
Silver
White
Brindle

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier breeds?

3 / 5

The coat of Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier dogs falls in the medium-length category.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier?

Wiry

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier?

A Cairn Terrier can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Wire Fox Terrier can have a litter of 13-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

3 / 5

Cairn Terriers have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

5 / 5

Wire Fox Terriers are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier, which breed is more prone to health problems?

2 / 5

Cairn Terriers are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

3 / 5

While the Wire Fox Terrier breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier?

Weight Gain

Distichiasis
Cataracts
Lens Luxation
Shoulder Dislocation
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier breeds?

Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Allergy Tests

Eye
Hearing
Skeletal
X-Rays
Eye Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Cairn Terriers and Wire Fox Terriers compare?

5 / 5

Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier breeds are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.

Social Needs

Cairn Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier social needs comparison

5 / 5

Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier have very high social needs. These needs include regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Cairn Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier exercise need comparison.

4 / 5

Cairn Terriers require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

5 / 5

Wire Fox Terriers need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Cairn Terrier or Wire Fox Terrier?

1 / 5

Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier are active dogs that may not require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Cairn Terrier or Wire Fox Terrier?

1 / 5

The Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Cairn Terriers or Wire Fox Terriers bark more/less frequently?

5 / 5

Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier dogs bark and howl frequently, they are not a good fit for quiet homes.

Territorial

Is the Cairn Terrier or Wire Fox Terrier a better guard dog?

3 / 5

While Cairn Terrier dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

4 / 5

Wire Fox Terrier dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Cairn Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Roaming urge

Cairn Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Prey Drive

Cairn Terrier or Wire Fox Terrier - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier entertained?

Socializing, Eating Snacks, Walking, Fetch, Playing, Running, Chasing, Barking, Snuggling, Walk, Play with ball, Jump, Run, Chew, Sniffing, Marking

Walking, Jumping, Jogging, Road trip, Walk, Run, Fetch

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Cairn Terriers or Wire Fox Terriers?

Both Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Cairn Terrier or Wire Fox Terrier walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Cairn Terrier, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Wire Fox Terrier, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Cairn Terriers or Wire Fox Terriers require more exercise?

In general most Cairn Terriers usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Wire Fox Terriers usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Cairn Terriers or Wire Fox Terriers?

3 / 5

Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier dogs?

In general Cairn Terrier should be brushed at least once a month. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes, especially if they enjoyed it

Wire Fox Terrier should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Cairn Terriers and Wire Fox Terriers?

Slicker Brush
Comb
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Cairn Terrier or Wire Fox Terrier in cups?

For an average 12-14 pound (5 - 6 kg) Cairn Terrier feed 1.3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 17-19 pound (8 - 9 kg) Wire Fox Terrier feed 2.6 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Cairn Terrier or Wire Fox Terrier?

The average cost of a Cairn Terrier is somewhere $1.40 - $1.80 per day.

The average cost of a Wire Fox Terrier is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Cairn Terrier or Wire Fox Terrier?

The average per month expenses of a Cairn Terrier is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Wire Fox Terrier is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Cairn Terriers vs Wire Fox Terriers

4 / 5

Cairn Terrier is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

3 / 5

Wire Fox Terriers are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Sensitivity Level

How do Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier compare in sensitivity?

3 / 5

Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier dogs have average emotions and are adaptable to different situations, not requiring extra care like sensitive breeds do.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Cairn Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier?

5 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Cairn Terrier or Wire Fox Terrier?

3 / 5

Cairn Terriers and Wire Fox Terriers are dogs that do well in apartments with sufficient exercise, but they would really appreciate a small yard.

Child Friendly

Do Cairn Terriers or Wire Fox Terriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Cairn Terriers are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

5 / 5

Wire Fox Terriers make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Cairn Terrier or Wire Fox Terrier?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Cairn Terrier or Wire Fox Terrier breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

3 / 5

Cairn Terriers are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

1 / 5

Wire Fox Terriers are not cat friendly.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Cairn Terrier or Wire Fox Terrier?

3 / 5

Cairn Terriers are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

2 / 5

Wire Fox Terriers are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Pet friendly

How do Cairn Terrier or Wire Fox Terrier dogs interact with other pets?

3 / 5

1 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Cairn Terrier or Wire Fox Terrier?

3 / 5

Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish, so early socialization is key to ensure they are comfortable around new people.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier?

4 / 5

Cairn Terriers are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

5 / 5

Wire Fox Terriers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Cairn Terriers and Wire Fox Terriers compare?

4 / 5

Cairn Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.