Cairn Terrier vs Weimaraner

Terrier · Small vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Weimaraner is the larger breed at 70–90 lbs (males) vs 14 lbs for the Cairn Terrier.
  • The Cairn Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The Weimaraner has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Cairn Terrier sheds less.
  • The Weimaraner is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCairn TerrierWeimaraner
Group
TerrierSporting
Size
SmallLarge
Origin
ScotlandGermany
Height (male)
10"25–27"
Height (female)
9.5"23–25"
Weight (male)
14 lbs70–90 lbs
Weight (female)
13 lbs55–75 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–15 years11–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
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)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)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
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 Weimaraner

The Weimaraner is a friendly, fearless, obedient gundog with a striking silver-grey coat — the 'grey ghost' from Germany. Originally from Germany, this large sporting breed typically weighs 70–90 lbs and lives 11–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, fearless, obedient.

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Cairn Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism

Weimaraner health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Von Willebrand's disease