Comparison: Border Terrier and Cairn Terrier

Border Terrier and Cairn Terrier are marked as similar in our database. The table compares only the data we have on the breeds.

Border Terrier
Photo: Samuel Cockman, CC BY 2.0, source
Cairn Terrier
Photo: John, CC BY 2.0, source
Border TerrierCairn Terrier
FCI group3. Terriers3. Terriers
Country of originUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom
CategorySmallSmall
Height at withers25–28 cm28–31 cm
Weight5–7 kg6–7.5 kg
Life span12–15 years13–15 years
Recognition features
  • Otter-shaped head
  • Harsh wiry coat in red, wheaten or blue-and-tan
  • Moderately low, lean build about 30 cm
  • Harsh double coat in cream to dark grey
  • Small fox-like head with pointed ears
  • About 30 cm tall, bushy tail carried up
CoatHard wiry coat with dense undercoat.Harsh double coat; cream, wheaten, red, grey.
PurposeA working terrier from the Anglo-Scottish borders for fox hunting, able to keep pace with horses.From the Scottish Highlands, hunting vermin among piles of stones (cairns).

Breed page: Border Terrier · Breed page: Cairn Terrier

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The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard.