Brittany vs Cairn Terrier

Sporting · Medium vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Brittany is the larger breed at 30–40 lbs (males) vs 14 lbs for the Cairn Terrier.
  • The Cairn Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The Brittany has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Cairn Terrier sheds less.
  • The Brittany is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBrittanyCairn Terrier
Group
SportingTerrier
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
FranceScotland
Height (male)
17.5–20.5"10"
Height (female)
17.5–20.5"9.5"
Weight (male)
30–40 lbs14 lbs
Weight (female)
30–40 lbs13 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years13–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
mediumwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Brittany

The Brittany is a bright, fun-loving, upbeat pointer-spaniel hybrid — energetic, athletic gundog and lively companion. Originally from France, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 30–40 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as bright, fun-loving, upbeat.

About the Cairn Terrier

The Cairn Terrier is an alert, cheerful, busy little Scottish ratter — Toto from The Wizard of Oz, the 'small dog with big heart'. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 14 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as alert, cheerful, busy.

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Brittany health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Epilepsy
  • Hypothyroidism

Cairn Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism