Cairn Terrier vs Manchester Terrier

Terrier · Small vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Manchester Terrier is the larger breed at 12–22 lbs (males) vs 14 lbs for the Cairn Terrier.
  • The Manchester Terrier typically lives longer (15–17 years).
  • The Cairn Terrier sheds less.
  • The Manchester Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCairn TerrierManchester Terrier
Group
TerrierTerrier
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
ScotlandEngland
Height (male)
10"15–16"
Height (female)
9.5"15–16"
Weight (male)
14 lbs12–22 lbs
Weight (female)
13 lbs12–22 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–15 years15–17 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)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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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 Manchester Terrier

The Manchester Terrier is a keen, devoted, observant English ratter — sleek black-and-tan terrier, gentleman's rat-pit champion. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 12–22 lbs and lives 15–17 years. Breeders describe them as keen, devoted, observant.

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Cairn Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism

Manchester Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Von Willebrand's disease
  • Heart problems
  • Eye disorders