Australian Terrier vs Cairn Terrier

Side-by-side comparison — size, temperament, traits, costs, and health

Australian Terrier
Category
Cairn Terrier

📏 Physical Stats

14 - 16
Weight (lbs)
13 - 14
10 - 11
Height (inches)
9 - 10
11 - 15 years
Life Expectancy
14 - 15 years
Terrier
Breed Group
Terrier
Australia
Origin
Scotland
Cattle herdering, hunting snakes and rodents
Bred For
Bolting of otter, foxes, other vermin

⚡ Temperament & Traits

Scores are 1–5 from breed data. Higher = more of that trait. Barking: lower is quieter.

4/5
Better
Energy Level
2/5
5/5
Better
Trainability
4/5
5/5
Good with Children
5/5
5/5
Good with Other Dogs
5/5
5/5
Grooming Needs
5/5

💰 Cost of Ownership

Based on breed-specific cost data at a moderate care level — quality food, routine vet, occasional grooming, standard insurance. Actual costs vary by location and provider.

Annual Cost
$1,796
Australian Terrier
vs
Annual Cost
$1,796
Cairn Terrier
Australian Terrier
Expense
Cairn Terrier
$1,796
Annual Cost
$1,796
$2,516
First Year
$2,516
$24,068
Lower ✓
Lifetime Total
$26,762
$336
Food (annual)
$336
$515
Vet Care (annual)
$515
$440
Grooming (annual)
$440
$480
Insurance (annual)
$480
$40
Insurance (monthly)
$40

Over their lifetimes, a Australian Terrier (~13 yrs) costs approximately $2,694 less than a Cairn Terrier (~15 yrs) in total.

🏥 Health Considerations

Health conditions listed are common concerns for these breeds or breed groups. Not every dog will develop these conditions. Regular vet check-ups are the best prevention.

🐾 Temperament

Australian Terrier

Spirited, Alert, Loyal, Companionable, Even Tempered, Courageous, Affectionate, Brave, Playful, Friendly, Curious, Gentle, Quiet

Cairn Terrier

Hardy, Fearless, Assertive, Gay, Intelligent, Active, Friendly, Playful, Affectionate, Dignified, Gentle, Independent