cairn terrier

one of a Scottish breed of small, short-legged terriers having a rough coat of any of several solid colors except white.

[1905-10; said to be so called because they are found in areas abounding in cairns]

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Breed of terrier developed in Scotland to rout animals that prey on game.

The modern breed's characteristics are carefully patterned on those of the dog's ancestor, a 17th-century terrier of the Isle of Skye. This short-legged dog has a short, broad face. Its coarse coat is usually bluish gray, tan, or pale yellowish brown. Generally active, hardy, alert, and spirited, it is valued as a pet and watchdog. It stands 9–10 in. (23–25.5 cm) high and weighs about 13–14 lbs (6–6.5 kg).

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▪ breed of dog

 working terrier breed developed in Scotland to rout vermin from cairns (rock piles). The modern breed's characteristics are carefully patterned on those of the dog's ancestor, a 17th-century terrier of the Isle of Skye. The cairn terrier is a short-legged dog with a short, broad face fixed in a “keen” expression that is typical of the breed. Its harsh coat is usually bluish gray, tan, or pale yellowish brown. Generally active, hardy, alert, and spirited, the cairn terrier is valued as a pet and watchdog. It stands 9.5 to 10 inches (24 to 25 cm) and weighs about 13 to 14 pounds (6 to 6.5 kg).

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