Parson Russell Terrier vs Cairn Terrier Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Parson or Cairn?
Compare the Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Parson or a Cairn? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you
Other names
Jack Russell Terrier, Parson, Parson Jack Russell Terrier
Toto Dog, Cairn
Weight
What is the average weight of Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier?
15.0 pounds
( 7 kg )
14.0 pounds
( 6 kg )
Height
What is the average height of Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier
13.5 inches
( 34.3 cm )
10.0 inches
( 25.4 cm )
Weight Gain Potential
Which breed eats more: Parson Russell Terrier or Cairn Terrier?
Parson Russell Terrier has low obesity risk, but needs exercise and food monitoring for optimal health.
Cairn Terrier has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.
Hypoallergenic
Are Parson Russell Terriers or Cairn Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?
No
Unfortunately, the Parson Russell Terrier is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.
Yes
While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Cairn Terriers are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.
Temperament
What are the personalities of Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier dogs?
Energetic Eager Intelligent Bold Happy Obedient
Active Courageous Intelligent Assertive Fearless
Shedding Level
Do Parson Russell Terriers shed more than Cairn Terriers, or which breed sheds more, Parson Russell Terriers or Cairn Terriers?
Parson Russell Terrier or Cairn Terrier dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Parson Russell Terrier or Cairn Terrier. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.
Watchdog Ability
Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Parson Russell Terrier or Cairn Terrier?
Parson Russell Terriers are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.
Cairn Terriers make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.
Origin
What is the origin of Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier dog breeds?
England
Scotland
Ancestry
What are the origins of Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier breeds?
Jack Russell Terrier
Scottish Terrier, West Highland White Terrier, Skye Terrier
Date of Birth
When were Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier breeds first developed?
1900s
1500s
Breed Group
What is the Breed Group of Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier?
Terrier (AKC:1997 & UKC)
Terrier (AKC:1913 & UKC)
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier dogs?
Brown
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier?
Black
Coat Color Possibilites
What are the natural colors of the coat for Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier breeds?
Pied White
Cream Black Brindle Gray Red
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier breeds?
Parson Russell Terriers have coats that can be either short or medium in length.
Cairn Terriers have medium-length coats.
Coat Density
What is the density of the coat of Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier?
Wiry
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier?
13-15 puppies per pregnancy
A Parson Russell Terrier can have a litter of 13-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
12-15 puppies per pregnancy
A Cairn Terrier can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
Adaptability
Parson Russell Terriers are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.
Cairn Terriers have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.
Health Issues
Between Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier, which breed is more prone to health problems?
While the Parson Russell Terrier breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.
Cairn Terriers are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.
Major Concerns
What are the major health concerns for Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier breeds?
Cerebellar Ataxia
Flea Allergy
Minor Concerns
What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier?
How do the energy levels of Parson Russell Terriers and Cairn Terriers compare?
Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier breeds are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.
Social Needs
Parson Russell Terrier vs Cairn Terrier social needs comparison
Parson Russell Terrier has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.
Cairn Terrier has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.
Exercise Needed
Parson Russell Terrier vs Cairn Terrier exercise need comparison.
Parson Russell Terriers need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.
Cairn Terriers require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.
Sleeping Need
Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Parson Russell Terrier or Cairn Terrier?
Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier are active dogs that may not require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more/less, Parson Russell Terrier or Cairn Terrier?
Parson Russell Terrier has low drooling tendency, suitable for those who dislike drool marks.
Cairn Terrier minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.
Tendency to Bark
Do Parson Russell Terriers or Cairn Terriers bark more/less frequently?
Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier dogs bark and howl frequently, they are not a good fit for quiet homes.
Territorial
Is the Parson Russell Terrier or Cairn Terrier a better guard dog?
Parson Russell Terrier dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.
While Cairn Terrier dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.
Mouthiness
Mouthiness Comparison: Parson Russell Terrier vs Cairn Terrier?
Roaming urge
Parson Russell Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
Parson Russell Terrier or Cairn Terrier - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Activity Level
Which breed has higher energy, Parson Russell Terriers or Cairn Terriers?
High
Parson Russell Terriers are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.
Medium
Cairn Terriers are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.
Tolerance of being left alone
Walks per Week
How many miles should Parson Russell Terrier or Cairn Terrier walk each week?
14 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Parson Russell Terrier, it's at least 14 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
9 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Cairn Terrier, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
Activity per Day
Do Parson Russell Terriers or Cairn Terriers require more exercise?
75 minutes
In general most Parson Russell Terriers usually need at least 75 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
60 minutes
In general most Cairn Terriers usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
Grooming
Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Parson Russell Terriers or Cairn Terriers?
The Parson Russell Terrier has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.
The Cairn Terrier requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.
Brushing Frequency
What is the recommended brushing frequency for Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier dogs?
Weekly
Parson Russell Terrier should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot
Monthly
In general Cairn Terrier should be brushed at least once a month. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes, especially if they enjoyed it
Brushing Tools
What brushing tools are used for Parson Russell Terriers and Cairn Terriers?
Pin Brush Slicker Brush Comb Nail Clipper
Slicker Brush Comb Scissors Nail Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to Parson Russell Terrier or Cairn Terrier in cups?
1 cups
For an average 13-17 pound (6 - 8 kg) Parson Russell Terrier feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.
1.3 cups
For an average 12-14 pound (5 - 6 kg) Cairn Terrier feed 1.3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.
Daily Cost
Which breed has a higher daily cost, Parson Russell Terrier or Cairn Terrier?
$1.30 - $1.40 / day
The average cost of a Parson Russell Terrier is somewhere $1.30 - $1.40 per day.
$1.40 - $1.80 / day
The average cost of a Cairn Terrier is somewhere $1.40 - $1.80 per day.
Monthly Cost
Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Parson Russell Terrier or Cairn Terrier?
$35 - $42 / month
When it comes to monthly expenses, both Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier have a similar average cost, ranging from $35 - $42. This results in an average yearly cost of around $420 - $504.
Intelligence
Comparing Intelligence: Parson Russell Terriers vs Cairn Terriers
Parson Russell Terrier has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.
Cairn Terrier is a very intelligent and trainable breed.
Sensitivity Level
How do Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier compare in sensitivity?
Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier dogs have average emotions and are adaptable to different situations, not requiring extra care like sensitive breeds do.
Affection Dependance
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Parson Russell Terrier vs Cairn Terrier?
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Parson Russell Terrier or Cairn Terrier?
Parson Russell Terriers and Cairn Terriers are dogs that do well in apartments with sufficient exercise, but they would really appreciate a small yard.
Child Friendly
Do Parson Russell Terriers or Cairn Terriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?
Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.
Senior-friendly
Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Parson Russell Terrier or Cairn Terrier?
Cat Friendly
Do Parson Russell Terrier or Cairn Terrier breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
Parson Russell Terriers are not cat friendly.
Cairn Terriers are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.
Dog Friendly
Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Parson Russell Terrier or Cairn Terrier?
Parson Russell Terriers are not dog-friendly.
Cairn Terriers are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.
Pet friendly
How do Parson Russell Terrier or Cairn Terrier dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Parson Russell Terrier or Cairn Terrier?
Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish, so early socialization is key to ensure they are comfortable around new people.
Playfulness
Which breed is more playful between Parson Russell Terrier and Cairn Terrier?
Parson Russell Terriers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.
Cairn Terriers are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.
Trainability
How do the trainability levels of Parson Russell Terriers and Cairn Terriers compare?
Parson Russell Terriers are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.
Cairn Terriers are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.
