Important, Distinctive Details Judges Should Look For and Reward in CAIRN TERRIERS By Lydia Coleman Hutchinson
Moderation C airns are a breed without exaggerations. Th e word “medium” is stressed, appearing four times in the Standard. Th is is not an elegant, stylized or fl ashy breed. We are currently seeing a trend towards dogs with “gira ff e necks” and “German Shepherd rears”—a look totally wrong for a Cairn. Th ese faults are usually seen on oversized dogs. Remember that Cairns, Scotties and Westies should all be approximately the same height. Rectangular Body Shape Balance and proportion are very impor- tant. Th e total body length should be approximately ⅓ longer than the height at the withers. Even though Cairns are in the short-legged class of Terriers, their legs should not be so short as to prevent them from being able to hunt e ff ectively in rough terrain. Again, remember the words “medium” and “moderate.” Unique Head and Expression Although the classic Cairn head can be compared to that of the Westie, it has a look and feel all its own. Broad and slight- ly rounded in skull, well- fi lled in muzzle with comparatively large teeth and a deep stop combine to give it a characteristic “Cairn-ness.” Ideal proportion in length is 4 (muzzle) to 5 (skull). An impish expres- sion from medium-sized, dark brown, oval eyes is what is desired. And if that typical expression is accompanied by a winsome tilt of the head when alert, you’ve got it all! Proper Presentation Cairns are to be shown as naturally as possible. Th ey should stand on their own
This puppy’s head shows great promise for the future. The proportions are correct, it appears to have a good stop, and the expression is “varminty”.
without being stacked or propped up. Th ey should move freely on a loose or “give-and- take” lead. When interacting with other dogs, they should own the ground on which they stand, without being overly aggressive. If they do become aggressive, they should respond to a quick correc- tion with the lead. It is important that judges allow Cairns to interact with other dogs to see them standing on their toes as described in the Standard. Correct Grooming Again, this is an honest, natural breed and should have a slightly scru ff y appear- ance. Th ey should not look sculpted with every hair perfectly in place. Th e use of arti fi cial products is discouraged and should be penalized when judging this breed. Head furnishings should look a bit A lovely, typey headstudy of a mature male Cairn. Note the keen expression and proper placement and size of his eyes. He also exhibits a correct equilateral triangle from the tips of his properly-set ears, through the center of his eyes on to his well-placed nose. He also has dark points on his ears and muzzle. His head is somewhat “overgroomed” but that does not take away from the overall excellence of this head. It is important when evaluating heads to check for breadth of skull, depth of stop, and strength and fill of muzzle.
A female version of a wonderful head. Even with her dark brindle coat her piercing expression can be seen. Grooming of this head is preferred to that of the male’s head.
rough with no teasing or chrysanthemum styling. A double weather-resistant, harsh coat is essential. Th e body coat should be approximately 2" long and should blend into the furnishings with no obvious line or de fi nition. An improper trend in grooming is to show dogs in coat that is
212 • S HOW S IGHT M AGAZINE , A UGUST 2014
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