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Shedding Characteristics of Cairn Terriers

Five Cairn Terrier Puppy standing on blue leather couch

 

Cairn Terriers are known for their shaggy, double-layered coats, and their shedding characteristics are relatively low compared to some other breeds. Here are some key points to understand about Cairn


Low Shedding

Cairn Terriers are considered a low-shedding breed. This means that they do not shed large amounts of fur continuously throughout the year, like some heavy-shedding breeds such as Labrador Retrievers or Huskies. However, they do shed small amounts of hair, primarily during seasonal changes.



Double Coat

Cairn Terriers have a double coat, consisting of a dense, wiry outer coat and a soft, insulating undercoat. This double coat helps protect them from harsh weather conditions, especially in their native Scotland.



Seasonal Shedding

Cairn Terriers typically experience some increased shedding during seasonal transitions, particularly in the spring and autumn. During these times, they may lose some of their undercoat to adapt to changing temperatures.



Regular Grooming

To manage shedding and keep their coat in good condition, Cairn Terriers require regular grooming. Brushing their coat a few times a week helps remove loose hair, prevent matting, and distribute natural oils for a healthy coat.



Hand-Stripping

Many Cairn Terrier owners choose to hand-strip their dog's coat. Hand-stripping involves plucking the dead hairs from the wiry outer coat. This technique maintains the coat's texture and colour. If you're not experienced with hand-stripping, consider consulting a professional groomer who specialises in terrier breeds.



Bathing

Frequent bathing is not recommended for Cairn Terriers, as it can strip the natural oils from their coat and skin. Bathing should be done as needed, typically every few months or when they get dirty.



Trimming Nails and Cleaning Ears

Regular maintenance, such as nail trimming and ear cleaning, is essential to keep your Cairn Terrier healthy and comfortable. Overgrown nails can affect their gait and lead to discomfort, while dirty ears can lead to infections.

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