Breed comparison
Australian Terrier vs Cairn Terrier
How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.
Australian Terrier
3Affection with family4
5Good with young children3
3Good with other dogs3
3Openness to strangers3
4Playfulness4
4Energy level3
4Trainability3
4Mental stimulation needs3
3Adaptability3
4Watchdog / protective4
5Barking4
1Shedding2
2Coat grooming2
1Drooling1
The biggest differences
- Good with young children: the Australian Terrier scores 5 out of 5, the Cairn Terrier 3.
They score the same on good with other dogs, openness to strangers, playfulness, adaptability, watchdog / protective, coat grooming.
Which one should you choose?
Pick the Australian Terrier if you have young children, you want an energetic exercise partner, you want less dog hair. Pick the Cairn Terrier if you prefer a calmer dog, you want a quieter dog.
Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.
Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.