Last Updated on August 23, 2021 by Fumipets

The Cairn Terrier is a tiny, strong, courageous, and loyal breed that dates back to the 1600s and hails from Scotland’s picturesque Western Highlands. This brave dog, like other Terriers, was formerly employed to help clear farms and the surrounding countryside of pests like rats.

Today’s Cairn Terrier is an energetic, alert, and playful friend that thrives when treated as a full-fledged family member and allowed to maintain close touch with people he cares about.

Are Cairn Terriers hypoallergenic?

Yes, Cairn Terriers are a hypoallergenic breed that does not cause allergic reactions in those with allergies. Though each dog is unique, most Cairns shed little, generate little dander, and are usually low-maintenance.

Is a Cairn Terrier a good fit for you? 

Continue reading to learn about the hypoallergenic characteristics of the breed, as well as its coat and care requirements.

Are Cairn Terriers Good For People With Allergies?

First and foremost. Even dogs that are often characterised as non-shedding, such as the Poodle, shed to some extent. Shedding is the natural, essential process through which the coat gets rid of old, worn-out hair so that new growth may take its place.

The label hypoallergenic does not always imply that a dog will never produce an allergic response. When it comes to dogs, hypoallergenic simply implies that a dog is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction, even in those who are sensitive to most dog breeds.

It’s crucial to realise that the majority of individuals are not allergic to dog fur. Allergic responses are caused by proteins present in dander, saliva, and urine, which are dead skin cells. So, what is the connection between hair, dander, saliva, and urine?

Dander

When the dog scratches, shakes himself or sheds loose hair, dead skin cells adhere to the dog’s hair and are discharged into the air, along with hair, and dispersed around the home.

Saliva 

Saliva  If they have fleas, they will scratch with their back paws, gnaw at the irritating bites, and then lick to calm the inflamed skin.

Saliva and the proteins it contains are distributed throughout the coat as a result of all of this grooming, chewing, and licking. Because of the proteins in the saliva, an allergic human who pets the dog or comes into touch with lost hair may have an allergic reaction.

Urine

You may not expect an allergic reaction to a dog’s pee, but it does happen. Droplets are frequently sprayed back over the coat when both male and female dogs urinate, especially tiny breeds whose private parts are close to the ground. Isn’t it revolting?

Some dogs are unconcerned with a few drips on their coat, and the soiling would go unnoticed by you. What happens, though, when you try to give your little boy a belly rub? Yep. You’ve been found out. Doesn’t that make you want to wash your hands right now?

If other dogs detect a trace of wetness after peeing, they will wipe themselves up. Although it’s a kind gesture, the coat now includes proteins from both saliva and urine!

The Good News…

Although allergy patients may have severe reactions if they are even marginally exposed, the allergens present in dander, saliva, and urine are not bothersome to most individuals.

Even better, Cairn Terriers are not only low-shedding in general, but the proteins produced by their body are typically well tolerated by allergy sufferers.

So, let’s go back to the original question. Is the Cairn Terrier hypoallergenic and appropriate for allergy sufferers? Yes, in broad terms. They don’t generate a lot of dander; the proteins present in their dead skin cells, saliva, and urine vary from those found in non-hypoallergenic dogs, and they don’t shed much, thus the quantity of hair they shed is small.

How Much Do They Shed?

We already know that Cairn Terriers shed some throughout the year, but how much can you really expect to deal with?

In comparison to other breeds with thick, protective fur, Cairn Terriers don’t shed nearly as much. Even after roughhousing and cuddling with their dog, many owners report that just two or three hairs are attached to their clothes.

What About Shedding During the Seasons?

Most dogs shed more profusely in the spring as the temperature warms up, and they may shed again in the autumn when their summer coat gives way to their winter coat, which is warmer.

Spring shedding is low in Cairn Terriers, particularly when compared to other double-coated breeds, and an autumn shed may go unnoticed.

Factors That May Contribute To Increased Shedding

Apart from seasonal shedding, a number of additional reasons may cause a usually low-shedding dog to shed more than usual.

Pregnancy, whelping, and caring for a litter of puppies.

Fleas and mites, for example.

• Allergies.
• Stress.
• Skin diseases caused by fungi and/or bacteria.
• Malnutrition as a consequence of a poor diet.
• Illness.
• Dry skin caused by overbathing.
• Certain medications.

A change in the environment, such as moving from a humid to a drier part of the nation.

If your Cairn Terrier’s shedding patterns abruptly alter, you should take him to the veterinarian.

What Is A Cairn Terrier’s Coat Like?

The exterior coat of an adult Cairn Terrier is harsh and wiry, with a softer, thick undercoat. Their double layer is weather-resistant, allowing children to remain comfortable and protected in a range of weather situations.

Cairn Terriers have a coat texture that is comparable to that of an adult, although it is not as thick and is softer to the touch as a puppy. The puppy coat will gradually begin to be replaced by the adult coat around the 4 – 6 month period. For some canines, this procedure may take many months to complete.

Do Cairn Terriers Need Grooming?

Yes. While we’re not talking about hours of combing here, since Cairn Terriers are a low-maintenance breed, regular grooming should not be overlooked. They’re a breed that has to be stripped by hand a couple of times a year.

After all, you want your four-legged companion to be happy and healthy at all times, right?

The Coat

Brushing your hair thoroughly at least once a week eliminates dead hair and dander and prevents mats from forming. Brushing also improves blood flow to the skin’s surface, distributes nutritious oils uniformly throughout the coat, and provides a good chance to check your dog’s body for any previously unseen ailments.

The majority of Cairn Terrier owners use a slicker brush on the body and a stainless steel comb on the legs and head. Following a brushing, the comb may be used over the remainder of the body to ensure that no tangles or mats are missed.

Stripping is preferable to clipping a Cairn Terrier’s coat. For those who are unfamiliar with the process of stripping a coat, it entails removing dead hair from the roots. It’s a painless process that makes the coat appear new when done correctly.

While you can strip with your bare hands, most people prefer to use one or more tools to expedite the process. A stripping knife, a stripping tool, a stripping stone for the chest and belly region, and rubber fingers for fast, minor tasks are the most often utilised tools.

Bathing should only be done when absolutely required or once every three months to prevent drying out the skin. When bathing your dog, be sure to use a mild, pH-balanced dog shampoo and thoroughly rinse.

The Nails

Chipping, cracking, and painful splaying of the toes may all be avoided by trimming your dog’s nails once a month. A regular pet nail clipper will suffice; just keep the quick in mind while trimming. If your dog doesn’t mind the buzz of the engine, another alternative is to use a nail grinder.

The Ears 

Although terriers’ ears are upright and not especially prone to infection, it’s still a good idea to examine both ears for dirt, waxy build-up, or bad smells on a regular basis. When required, gently massage a light ear cleaning solution into each ear, then wipe away the excess with a cotton pad or ball.

Dental Hygiene

Dogs’ teeth, like people’s, may collect germs, plaque, and tartar, which can lead to infections and damage. Brushing your Cairn Terrier’s teeth at least twice or three times a week is highly advised since dental issues and illness are more common in smaller breeds.

Use only dog-friendly toothpaste, since human toothpaste sometimes includes fluoride and/or xylitol, both of which are harmful to dogs.