Cairn Terrier vs Field Spaniel
Terrier · Small vs Sporting · Medium
Cairn TerrierSmall
An alert, cheerful, busy little Scottish ratter — Toto from The Wizard of Oz, the 'small dog with big heart'.
Weight: 14 lbsLifespan: 13–15 years
Field SpanielMedium
A sensitive, fun-loving, affectionate British spaniel — rare flushing breed, taller than a Cocker.
Weight: 35–50 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Field Spaniel is the larger breed at 35–50 lbs (males) vs 14 lbs for the Cairn Terrier.
- • The Cairn Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
- • The Cairn Terrier sheds less.
- • The Field Spaniel is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Cairn Terrier | Field Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Sporting |
Size | Small | Medium |
Origin | Scotland | England |
Height (male) | 10" | 18" |
Height (female) | 9.5" | 17" |
Weight (male) | 14 lbs | 35–50 lbs |
Weight (female) | 13 lbs | 35–50 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 13–15 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very Low (1/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Low (2/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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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.
About the Field Spaniel
The Field Spaniel is a sensitive, fun-loving, affectionate British spaniel — rare flushing breed, taller than a Cocker. Originally from England, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 35–50 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as sensitive, fun-loving, affectionate.
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Cairn Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
- • Hypothyroidism
Field Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Ear infections