Breed comparison
Cairn Terrier vs Lakeland Terrier
How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.
Lakeland TerrierThe biggest differences
These two breeds are close on every trait: no score differs by more than one point.
They score the same on good with young children, good with other dogs, openness to strangers, playfulness, energy level, trainability.
Which one should you choose?
Pick the Cairn Terrier if you want a more protective watchdog. Pick the Lakeland Terrier if you want a quieter dog, you live in a smaller home or move often.
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.