Bushland Terrier

The Cairn Terrier is a small, hardy working dog that embodies the phrase big dog in a small package. Males typically stand between 9.5 and 10 inches at the shoulder and weigh around 14 pounds, while females measure approximately 9.5 inches and weigh about 13 pounds. The breed presents a well-proportioned, compact body with short legs that provide stability and agility when navigating rocky terrain. Neither too leggy nor too low to ground, the Cairn displays balanced proportions that reflect its origins as a practical working terrier bred for function rather than fashion in the rugged Scottish Highlands and Isle of Skye. The head is broad with a definite stop, featuring a strong muzzle of medium length and large teeth relative to the dog's size. Dark hazel eyes express keen intelligence and alertness, set wide apart beneath shaggy eyebrows that frame the face characteristically. Small, pointed ears stand erect and are set wide apart on the skull, remaining alert to sounds in their environment. The Cairn wears a distinctive double coat consisting of a harsh, weather-resistant outer coat and a soft, furry undercoat that together provide excellent protection against harsh Highland weather. The outer coat should appear profuse and shaggy without being excessively long, while feeling harsh rather than silky to the touch. Acceptable coat colors include all shades except white, with common colors being wheaten, red, gray, brindle, and near-black. Many Cairns display brindle patterns, and coat color often changes throughout the dog's life, with many brindles darkening considerably as they mature. Dark points on the ears, muzzle, and tail tip are typical and desirable. The tail is relatively short and carried gaily but not curled over the back. Feet are round and compact with thick pads suitable for rough terrain. The overall impression should be of a small, alert, active dog with a shaggy coat, capable head, and confident expression that reflects the breed's intelligence and working heritage.

The Scottish Terrier presents a distinctive silhouette characterized by a compact, powerful body set low to the ground on short, sturdy legs. Males and females stand approximately 10 inches at the shoulder, with males weighing between 19 and 22 pounds and females between 18 and 21 pounds. Despite their small stature, Scotties possess substantial bone and musculature that gives them a surprisingly heavy, solid feel when lifted. The breed standard emphasizes a sturdily built dog with proper proportions, creating the appearance of great power in a small package. The head is long and distinctive, appearing almost disproportionately large relative to body size, though proper proportion to the dog's overall balance is essential. The skull is slightly domed with a definite stop, leading to a long, approximately equal-length muzzle with a large black nose. Dark brown, almond-shaped eyes are set wide apart beneath prominent, shaggy eyebrows that contribute to the breed's keen, piercing expression. Small, prick ears are pointed and covered with short, velvety hair, standing erect on the skull. The breed's characteristic beard and mustache frame the muzzle, giving the Scottish Terrier its unmistakable appearance. The coat is a hallmark of the breed, consisting of a hard, wiry outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat that together provide excellent weather protection. The outer coat should feel harsh to the touch rather than soft or silky. Acceptable colors include black, brindle of any shade, and wheaten, with no white markings permitted except for a small spot on the chest. The body is moderately short with a level topline, deep chest, and powerful hindquarters. The tail is about seven inches long, thick at the base, tapering toward the tip, and carried erect with a slight curve forward. The overall impression should be of a small but powerful dog possessing dignity, self-assurance, and characteristic terrier determination.