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Grooming and Maintenance Requirements of Cairn Terriers

Cairn Terrier Puppy standing in green grass enjoying outdoor

 

Cairn Terriers have a distinctive shaggy coat that requires regular grooming and maintenance to keep them healthy and looking their best. While they are not the most demanding breed in terms of grooming, there are some essential tasks and considerations for Cairn Terrier owners.


Coat Type

Cairn Terriers have a double coat consisting of a wiry outer layer and a soft undercoat. This coat is weather-resistant and provides insulation. To maintain the characteristic Cairn Terrier appearance, grooming should focus on preserving the texture and colour of the outer coat.


Brushing

Regular brushing is essential for Cairn Terriers to remove loose hair, prevent matting, and distribute natural oils for a healthy coat. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient. A slicker brush or a pin brush is recommended to reach the dense undercoat.


Hand-Stripping

Many Cairn Terrier owners choose to hand-strip their dog's coat to maintain its texture and colour. Hand-stripping involves plucking out the dead hairs from the wiry outer coat rather than using clippers. This method preserves the characteristic look of the breed and should ideally be done by a professional groomer, especially if you're not experienced in hand-stripping.


Bathing

Cairn Terriers do not require frequent bathing. Bathing should be done as needed, typically every few months or when they get dirty. Frequent bathing can strip the natural oils from their coat and skin, which can lead to dryness and irritation.


Ear Cleaning

Regular ear cleaning is essential for Cairn Terriers to prevent ear infections. Check their ears weekly for dirt, wax buildup, or signs of infection. Clean them as needed with a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner.


Nail Trimming

Cairn Terriers, like all dogs, need regular nail trimming to prevent overgrown nails that can affect their gait and cause discomfort. If you can hear their nails clicking on the floor, it's time for a trim.


Teeth Care

Dental hygiene is crucial for all dogs. Brush your Cairn Terrier's teeth regularly with a dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste or provide dental chews and toys to help maintain oral health.


Are Cairn Terriers Hard to Groom?

Grooming Cairn Terriers can be relatively straightforward if you follow a regular routine. However, hand-stripping the coat to maintain its texture and colour is a skilled technique that is best done by a professional groomer, especially for show dogs. Routine brushing, nail trimming, and other basic grooming tasks are manageable for most Cairn Terrier owners.


Are Cairns Hypoallergenic?

Cairn Terriers are not considered hypoallergenic. While they do have a low-shedding coat, they still produce allergenic proteins found in their skin cells (dander), saliva, and urine, which can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. People with allergies to dogs should spend time with Cairn Terriers to assess their compatibility before bringing one into their home. Regular grooming and cleaning can help reduce allergen levels to some extent.

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