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Cairn Terrier

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One of Scotland’s most irresistible wonders, the Cairn Terrier is as active and industrious as he is charming and sweet, As a home companion, show dog, and, of course, terrier, the Cairn Terrier fits into most living situations and consistently steals the hearts of owners, judged and everyone else he meets. For the owner or family seeking a bright, easy-care canine pal dressed up in a rugged package, the Cairn Terrier is a perfect choice. Written by long-time fancier, Robert Jamieson, this colorful introductory guide provides discussions on breed history, characteristics and standard, as well as puppy selection, feeding, training, preventative health care and showing. The new owner will welcome advice about puppy-proofing the home, preparing for the pup’s arrival, housebreaking and preventing puppy problems. In addition to an authoritative, comprehensive text, this book presents over 135 photographs in full color, which prove to be as informative as they are attractive.

160 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 2000

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Robert Jamieson

157 books

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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
Profile Image for Stephen Wallace.
883 reviews106 followers
December 4, 2023
OK breed book on Cairn Terriers. I used to have a Westie but also like Cairns. The pictures are not as stunning as I have seen in some exceptional books, but cute puppies and dogs always work as in this book. I thought it interested to think that before they settled it into a breed, during the 1800s that interbreeding was common between all the the Scotch (those bred in Scotland) dogs. it was when breeders started exhibiting at dog shows that uniformity within the breed started to come about. Originally Cairn's were named the short-haired Skye Terrier but the name was changed and an official standard drawn up in October 1911.

There is too much talk in this book of the Champions dogs of the breed who made a mark in the formation of the current dog. They are just names to me so not really interested. The history I wish I could see if something of the individual dogs characters, some actions they took to stand out, something of the personality of them.

I did like this bit when discussing the breed standards:
SCOTCH TERRIERS: The dogs originally know as Scotch Terriers include the Cairn, Scottish and Westie. The Scottish Terrier is a heavy-boned, muscular dog whose colors are black, brindle and wheaten. He has a long muzzle and a longer ear compared tot he West Highland White or the Cairn Terrier. the Westie is much lighter in weight and bone than the Scottie, he has a shorter, broad muzzle and his ears are smaller than a Scottie's. His color is white. The Westie is some sturdier than the Cairn, broader in skull and wider in ear carriage. The Cairn has a profuse harsh outer coat with a soft, close undercoat. His coat is shown in a neatened condition rather than in a tailored jacket as are the Scottie and Westie coats.

The book goes on to have the usual stuff you see in a breed book, health issues, care, feeding, training, showing, etc. What I did find different was 3 pages on Homeopathy, or alternatives to conventional medicine for your dog. Not sure about the practice, but mention for those interested. and it is something I don't believe I have seen in other breed books.

One other thing that hopefully is behind the times is what it says about heartworm preventatives:

'There is no doubt that heartworm is a dreadful disease that threatens the lives of dogs. However, the likelihood of your dog's being bitten by an infected mosquito is slim in most places and a mosquito-repellent (or an herbal remedy such as Wormwood or Black Walnut) is much safer for your dog and will not compromise his immune system (the way heartworm preventatives will.) Should you decide to use the traditional preventative 'medications,' you can consider giving the pill every other or third month.'

I have not heard of this concerns like this nowadays, so hopefully it is because the medicines of today for heartworm are safe to use.

Anyway, fun to look at and imagine having one of these feisty friends. If I meet someone with a Cairn I will probably gift him the book. If you are a terrier fan, I would highly recommend 'Born to Bark: My Adventures with an Irrepressible and Unforgettable Dog' by Stanley Coren. In Mr. Coren's great book he takes his Cairn all the way through the Obedience classes which is quite a feat for these active little dogs.
136 reviews6 followers
February 18, 2009
I preferred this book to the other Cairn Terrier book because the information went past what I'd already read online.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews