Breed comparison

Cairn Terrier vs Norwegian Lundehund

How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.

4Affection with family3
3Good with young children3
3Good with other dogs3
3Openness to strangers3
4Playfulness3
3Energy level3
3Trainability3
3Mental stimulation needs3
3Adaptability3
4Watchdog / protective3
4Barking3
2Shedding3
2Coat grooming2
1Drooling1

The 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, energy level, trainability, mental stimulation needs.

Which one should you choose?

Pick the Cairn Terrier if you want less dog hair, you want a more protective watchdog. Pick the Norwegian Lundehund if 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.

Newsletter

One useful dog email a week

Food safety, feeding and breed answers, checked against vet sources. Plus seasonal warnings, like holiday foods to keep away from dogs.

Free. Unsubscribe any time. We never share your email. Privacy.