How long do Cairn Terriers live? June 1, 2018 16:05 25 Comments
Barring anything unusual, your average Cairn is going to live anywhere between twelve and seventeen years. Having said that, we know of a considerable number of Cairns who have lived a full eighteen, nineteen and even twenty years. In a recent call out to Cairn owners on FB there was generous sprinkling of seventeen year olds and an amazing twenty-one year old!
In one reference article they say that your pet will go on for many years "if fed the right nutrition and given plenty of affection". Given those parameters I don't know why our beloved breed doesn't live for a few centuries at least!
Apparently, as a guide, a well-maintained dog will weigh 6kgs as a female, and 7.5 for a male, those are considered the optimum weights for continued good health.
This is where we are on the scale; our first two Cairns lived till fourteen and sixteen. Our second died at seven, to that vile affliction cancer, he was robbed; we were devastated that he hadn't lived his longest life. Cairns four and five are twelve years old, a little over the weight guidelines, but still walking and swimming and living their best lives. Finally, Cairn six is the puppy; she is six months old and growing like a weed!
So the record for longest-lived Cairn is for Cairn mix Gracie from Wales, adopted when she was sixteen and going strong at twenty-one. A couple of points here, first note this is a mix, and I have always been told that mixes are stronger, and second, this dear little thing was adopted into a brand new family aged sixteen, just imagine that!
For the record, the oldest dog outside the wonderful Cairn, ever officially recorded was an Australian Cattle Dog called Bluey who died aged twenty-nine years and one hundred and sixty days in 1939.
We hope this answers the question: how long do Cairn Terriers live?
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Comments
Faith Canali on January 15, 2021 15:20
I lost my husband in 2014. he was the love of my life and my childhood sweetheart I know them longer than anybody else I met him at 14 in school. My children are all grown up my grandchildren all grown up. Even though I am close to all my children and grandchildren I live alone. My youngest daughter told me I should get a dog and after I retired, she proceeded to look for me. I had a mini black schnauzer named Daphne who I adored but I did not want to get another one because I didn’t want to compare. And I wanted a male. anyways I did my research and I came upon Cairn Terriers; Or should I say they found me LOL. I had a reputable breeder my daughter found one in New York, And actually his father was a champion show dog, which did not impressed me at all what impressed me is the care that these puppies were shown when I went to get him. I still keep in touch with the breeder after four years. I fell in love with a beautiful wheaten colored little man whom I named Otis Ray😀After Otis Redding. I was scared to death at 66 years old taken care of a baby again. But with persistence we made it through the puppy years. My biggest fear is that I would go before him and no one would take care of him like I do. I am now 70. But the saga continues, we go on for 5 mile walks weather permitting every day but Sunday. In New England especially Massachusetts the weather is usually beautiful. Of course we break it up in the summertime and I put mushers(wax protecter) on his feet summer and winter when needed. We are a sight walking down to the street me with my little bag with his water bottle/supplies him with that beautiful stance strutting his stuff behaving so well, until he sees a dog or a garbage truck LOL! I was so afraid to get an animal just because my husband was sick for so many years and I had to go to the pain of watching him wither away. I just didn’t want to put that emotional effort into anything else. But he saved my life he is my companion my sparring partner at times, the love of my life. You are never too old to receive the love of a faithful companion, one who never let you down, my little man Otis. Today is his birthday he is four years old! Unlike my children and grandchildren I sang to him also. Thanks for listening. Have a blessed day.
Julie Stark on October 7, 2020 06:23
My Beautiful Cairn Terrier, Charlie, is now almost 18 years old! He is blind, he cannot smell and he is deaf. He is papered so I know his exact date of birth. I even painted a portrait of him. I can’t bring myself to put him down because he appears to be enjoying life and loves to eat. He is incontinent but since we live in Southern California where it’s between 65 and 75°, I can keep him outside. I bring him in when it’s above 82° or below 62°. It’s difficult since he just doesn’t know what to do with himself. Do they get dementia? How do you know when it’s time to put him down?
Julie Stark on November 11, 2020 16:06
My Beautiful Cairn Terrier, Charlie, is now almost 18 years old! He is blind, he cannot smell and he is deaf. He is papered so I know his exact date of birth. I even painted a portrait of him. I can’t bring myself to put him down because he appears to be enjoying life and loves to eat. He is incontinent but since we live in Southern California where it’s between 65 and 75°, I can keep him outside. I bring him in when it’s above 82° or below 62°. It’s difficult since he just doesn’t know what to do with himself. Do they get dementia? How do you know when it’s time to put him down?
Gary on August 4, 2020 09:34
We lost our sweet adorable Cairn Brandy on July 26, 2020. She was 15 years and 2 months. She passed away peacefully in her sleep. She was the pack leader in our house with a Lab and Pitbull mix. She took no flack from those two. Her favorite toy was any tennis ball, which she claimed no matter who had it first. She gave us lots of love and beautiful memories. We’re all still hurting. Brandy was a gift to my then 10 year old daughter who occasionally brought her on campus while in college where Brandy had lots of adoring fans.
Dudley on June 9, 2020 09:17
Does anyone recognise these symptoms, please?
Ozz is an 11 year old Cairn-westie & has just developed a limp from his rear left leg. Appetite etc everything is normal. Reduced his walking dramatically & he’s improved somewhat.
However took him to beach today & he sprinted around like a crazy dog but tonight he is struggling to walk, his back end is obviously really sore.
Next stop, the vets, which he hates…
Gary Hunter on May 26, 2020 07:00
My cairnterrier Bess was 11 when she died had cancer but we didn’t know till the end lovely dog died in 1983 worse day of my life miss. her loads love you always Bess wish you were stil here great times and memorys
Lisa on May 21, 2020 07:19
Hi , our little cairn Jasper will be 20 years old 12th May 2020, he’s just about hanging in there bless him. Fingers crossed he can celebrate by eating lots of chicken and plenty of pies.
He’s had a wonderful life and is oh such a character .
Aleshia on February 26, 2020 11:52
I just recently lost my 19 year old cairn, his name was chippy. Aka chipolte chiporitto chipstar and the list goes on. Such a clever dog, although very stubborn and proud as cairn terrior owners know they all have a side to them that is loving protective and secretly wants cuddles.
January 22,2020 was his last day <3
David Wainwright on February 26, 2020 11:52
Our 17 year old cairn/lasa, passed away 6/2/2020. He had been diabetic for 4 and a half years was blind and mostly deaf, that said ,he ate well and drank o.k. and enjoyed 3 walks a day. He was suddenly struck down with servere intestinal problems and had to be put down. Much missed,
Bryan Oakes on February 13, 2020 14:25
We’ve lost both of our Cairns in the last five months. Snickers age 12 was taken by cancer on August 28th. Sadie was 10 years old and we had to say goodbye to her today, Jan 27th due to a rare heart issue. We are devastated and loved our Cairns.
Alicia Infante on February 13, 2020 14:27
Our Benjamin “Benji” Farnsworth Bentley lived for 15.11 years. He would have been 16 January 6th, 2020. He was the best dog. He loved us and our kids. He was our first baby. He caught everything in our backyard. Chased every squirrel, rabbit, bird, and cat. He always had energy and never ruined any of our belongings. He was the best thing that came into our lives. About 2 years ago started getting cataracts. We gave him fish oil. It seemed to help because one eye was clearer. Last year he started to get dementia, well that’s what we think. He loved to eat and steal food. You could never leave food around. He would get it no matter what. He jumped onto my son’s bed and then onto his dresser to get his food. He had the will till his last day. He was walking upstairs until this wednesday. All of a sudden his legs gave out on him. He couldn’t walk for more than 2 steps then falling over. He stopped eating (unless I feed him), and couldn’t get a drink of water. I gave him a syringe of water to try and hydrate him. By Thursday, he couldn’t open his mouth to eat. By 10am couldn’t move at all. We had to put him down. Hardest thing to do. We miss him so much. Until we meet again, Benji. We love you!!
Laura Lahey on February 13, 2020 14:29
I have a seventeen year old cairn that is having major gum issues lump in her throat and a big sore on her chin. She has been on pain pills and different antibiotics for the past six months trying to get it cleared up but to no avail. I have an appt. to put her to sleep on Wednesday. Although she still eats and drinks normally I feel her quality of life just isn’t there. She is blind, deaf and just pretty much sleeps all the time.
People say you will know when it’s time but I am still going back and forth if I am making the right decision. I know no one can tell me what to do but I don’t want her to be in pain. She doesn’t show signs that she is but her gums are really red so I am thinking she has to be. This is the hardest thing I have had to decide to do.
Claire Turley on February 13, 2020 14:29
I have a 16yr old cairn terrier mix. Visited the vet today for a check up and he’s amazed at her good health and zest for life. She is certainly a happy girl and has lots of life left in her 💖
Terri on February 13, 2020 14:29
We live in Atlanta and have Dingo, the most fascinating animal! On February 10 Dingo will be 16 years old and has outlived 3 of his adopted brothers. He’s had TPLO
surgery on both his hind legs and is beginning to lose strength. His teeth have always been an issue but we decided putting him under anesthesia for cleanings was too much for him. Dingo is going blind and deaf but still gets around well. We have 2 new rescues in the house and that’s put another spring in his step. He loves to show the young ones who’s boss. Other than teeth and knee replacements he has had excellent health. His personality is remarkably human and I feel that he will be enjoying life for another few years! My Dingo Boy❤️
Gary Davis on February 13, 2020 14:31
We lost our wonderful Max earlier in the week , he understood everything we said.
On Sunday we were out in the countryside eating his favourite egg custard, Tuesday we lost him , has his kidneys had failed, hurts so much to lose him
Allison on February 13, 2020 14:31
I’m just coming across this after several months. I still have my Glenn at 14 1/2. My first cairn to exceed 13 years. My fingers are crossed. He’s like a puppy. My other two – did everything I could. Money no object. It’s so very upsetting. The cairn terrier breed is supposedly very healthy. My sweethearts – not so much as so many health problems but I could afford to pay for the best treatment. But even though, they were not well bred apparently, had problems even money could not solve. Glenn has bladder stones, 3 surgeries & had a lump taken off his rectum recently – had to be there of course. He wasn’t a happy camper but bounced back immediately. Don’t think I would have! Ouch.
But he’s like a puppy running all around and demanding attention all day long.
My sister put her cairn down at age 18 because she was moving. Barely took her dog to the vet. Glenn has an on call vet & has checks every 3 months. He’d better live to 20!
These cairn terriers! Sometimes, often Maddening, little independent breed that is very much, has to be part of your daily life. I will always have a cairn in my life. For now, Glenn must live forever. Or close to.
glenn meixsell on February 13, 2020 14:32
9/28/2018 we had to put our Cairn down one week after her 17th Birthday, I’m having a hard time going on without her. She was our everything …. if I only knew I’d see her again !
RIP (baby girl)
Shirley Bulley on February 13, 2020 14:32
My second Cairn Bridie I’ve had since a puppy. She is 9 years old (I am 83) and I hope she outlives me. I have had many dearly loved dogs in my time, but Bridie is extra special. Every day I tell her how much I love her!
Diane on August 23, 2019 10:10
My baby only reached ,13.10 years! I am bereft and feel I must have done something wrong! A princess among dogs
Marie Palluotto on April 25, 2019 08:07
My Cairn, Mickey was euthanized 2 days ago at age 16. The vet felt his weight loss was so significant, (even though he was eating but still losing weight), that he would waste away.
I am overcome with guilt today. Should I have waited longer? He had lost his sight and his hearing was going. He couldn’t control his bowels for the past few months. I have another Cairn, a female that is a bit younger and she is in such distress. I don’t know what to do for her. She just stares at me with questioning eyes.
Allison on March 15, 2019 08:53
Blessings to Griffin “the great” and to you. If at all possible, could you put me in touch with his breeder?
I have a lovely Cairn, Glenn, who just celebrated his 14th on February 23rd……with doggy balloons , lots of pictures & much singing of Happy Birthday and may you have many more. I’ve only ever had Cairns. The best breed there is. Will be your best Pal. I’m a bit sensitive to the age thing because my other beloved Cairns have not reached 14. Before Glenn I had Andrew, he seemed to have health problems all of his life. He went blind (found the best opthalmologist) at 12 & started to lose kidney function until that horrible decision to make at 13 1/2. And trust me, other than giving him a kidney – which I would have- money was no problem & he went to the best – Tufts animal hospital. Then, Gillian. Sweetest little soul ever. Then a host of health problems. Both back legs patellar subluxation, surgery, teeth the cleanest the vet had seen with me brushing everyday – 5 pulled, then atypical cushings, and discovered she had only one kidney. No matter, I arranged her dosages and she and I enjoyed every day. No specialist was left uncovered. She lived to 13, one day after her birthday she passed with what I think was a stroke. She’d been at the vets for a week as I’d brought her in when I noticed she was weak on her back end. After having every veterinary specialist look at her they decided she’d had a stroke on her back but was improving. The breeder I got Gillian from did have , not only Gillian who I think wasn’t that well bred – I found her mum had teeth and knees issues – but another who had a cleft palate in another litter. Not to fault the breeder. She’s a lovely woman.
Now getting back to my Glenn. Gillian was his Aunt. But Glenn’s mum was very healthy and lived to 15. Glenn has had issues with bladder stones, has had surgery but now under control. And at 6 he had a non cancerous lesion removed from his colon.
Glenn is a spitfire. Controlled diet, lots of exercise. Checks at the vet every 3 months. Chiropractor.
Good grief. I hope that he lives forever.
John deSouza on February 21, 2019 15:22
Our Cairn, Griffin (‘the Great’), just passed recently at 18 years, 23 days. He was bred by Pandy’s in Frenchtown, NJ. They breed ‘for health’, not show. His mother had been imported from Ireland so his genes were good. He had a beautiful temperament as well. 18 years is a long time, and he will be sorely missed.
Lisa Stuart on February 21, 2019 15:24
We had a Carin Terrier. Buddy dog. He was blind and diabetic. He lived 16 years! Miss him so much!
Tina N on January 17, 2019 10:30
Our Maxie passed away a few weeks ago, he would’ve been 15 in March. He was losing his sight and hearing but still played like a puppy sometimes. It was so unexpected, we miss him so much.
Sharon Chang on November 15, 2018 06:56
Thank you for this info. Our dear Robbie will be 15 next March. We see signs of his slowing down, and it hurts to think of him becoming a little old man. He’s going blind and deaf, has arthritis; but Robbie still thinks he’s the alpha dog of the neighborhood. We’d love to believe he’ll be with us several more years.