Shepherd Pit vs Cairn Terrier Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Shepherd Pit or Cairn?
Compare the Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Shepherd Pit or a Cairn? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you
Other names
Toto Dog, Cairn
Weight
What is the average weight of Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier?
82.5 pounds
( 37 kg )
14.0 pounds
( 6 kg )
Height
What is the average height of Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier
23.5 inches
( 59.7 cm )
10.0 inches
( 25.4 cm )
Hypoallergenic
Are Shepherd Pits or Cairn Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?
No
Unfortunately, the Shepherd Pit 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 Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier dogs?
Do Shepherd Pits shed more than Cairn Terriers, or which breed sheds more, Shepherd Pits or Cairn Terriers?
Shepherd Pits are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.
Cairn Terriers are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.
Origin
What is the origin of Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier dog breeds?
United States
Scotland
Ancestry
What are the origins of Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier breeds?
German Shepherd, American Pit Bull Terrier
Scottish Terrier, West Highland White Terrier, Skye Terrier
Date of Birth
When were Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier breeds first developed?
2000's
1500s
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier dogs?
Hazel Brown Amber
Brown
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier?
Black Brown Isabella
Black
Coat Color Possibilites
What are the natural colors of the coat for Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier breeds?
Brindle Cream Fawn Brown Gray Black
Cream Black Brindle Gray Red
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier breeds?
Shepherd Pits have short coats.
Cairn Terriers have medium-length coats.
Coat Density
What is the density of the coat of Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier?
Straight
Wiry
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier?
6-10 puppies per pregnancy
A Shepherd Pit can have a litter of 6-10 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
Shepherd Pits are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.
Cairn Terriers have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.
Health Issues
Between Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier, which breed is more prone to health problems?
While the Shepherd Pit 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 Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier breeds?
Demodicosis Panosteitis Hip Dysplasia Pannus Perianal Fistulas Hemophilia Degenerative Myelopathy Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency Renal Cystadenocarcinoma and Nodular Dermatofibrosis
Flea Allergy
Minor Concerns
What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier?
Shepherd Pit vs Cairn Terrier social needs comparison
Shepherd Pit has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.
Cairn Terrier has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.
Sleeping Need
Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Shepherd Pit or Cairn Terrier?
Shepherd Pits sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.
Cairn Terriers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.
Mouthiness
Mouthiness Comparison: Shepherd Pit vs Cairn Terrier?
Roaming urge
Shepherd Pit vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
Shepherd Pit or Cairn Terrier - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Past times
What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier entertained?
Relaxing, Hike, Swim, Hide and seek, Cuddling, Car ride, Playing fetch, Car rides, Go for walks, Fetch, Walk, Digging, Dog Parks, Jogging, Tracking, Shake, Tug-of-war
Socializing, Eating Snacks, Walking, Fetch, Playing, Running, Chasing, Barking, Snuggling, Walk, Play with ball, Jump, Run, Chew, Sniffing, Marking
Activity Level
Which breed has higher energy, Shepherd Pits or Cairn Terriers?
High
Shepherd Pits 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 Shepherd Pit or Cairn Terrier walk each week?
16 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Shepherd Pit, it's at least 16 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 Shepherd Pits or Cairn Terriers require more exercise?
180 minutes
In general most Shepherd Pits usually need at least 180 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, Shepherd Pits or Cairn Terriers?
The Shepherd Pit 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 Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier dogs?
Weekly
Shepherd Pit 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 Shepherd Pits and Cairn Terriers?
Slicker Brush Nail Clipper
Slicker Brush Comb Scissors Nail Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to Shepherd Pit or Cairn Terrier in cups?
3 cups
For an average 40-90 pound (18 - 41 kg) Shepherd Pit feed 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.
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, Shepherd Pit or Cairn Terrier?
$1.70 - $2.00 / day
The average cost of a Shepherd Pit is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 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, Shepherd Pit or Cairn Terrier?
$48 - $63 / month
The average per month expenses of a Shepherd Pit is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
$35 - $42 / month
The average per month expenses of a Cairn Terrier is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
Sensitivity Level
How do Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier compare in sensitivity?
This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.
Cairn Terriers have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Shepherd Pit or Cairn Terrier?
Shepherd Pits and Cairn Terriers are dogs that do well in apartments with sufficient exercise, but they would really appreciate a small yard.
Child Friendly
Do Shepherd Pits or Cairn Terriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?
Shepherd Pits make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.
Cairn Terriers are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.
Senior-friendly
Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Shepherd Pit or Cairn Terrier?
Cat Friendly
Do Shepherd Pit or Cairn Terrier breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
Shepherd Pits are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.
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: Shepherd Pit or Cairn Terrier?
Shepherd Pits are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.
Cairn Terriers are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.
Pet friendly
How do Shepherd Pit or Cairn Terrier dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Shepherd Pit or Cairn Terrier?
Shepherd Pits are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.
Cairn Terriers are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.
Playfulness
Which breed is more playful between Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier?
Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier are playful dogs. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15-20 minutes, and it will mean the world to them.
Trainability
How do the trainability levels of Shepherd Pits and Cairn Terriers compare?
Shepherd Pit and Cairn Terrier dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.
