Cairn Terrier vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison

Cairn Terrier vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed ComparisonCairn Terrier is originated from United Kingdom but Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) is originated from Belgium. Cairn Terrier may grow 33 cm / 12 inches shorter than Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren). Cairn Terrier may weigh 26 kg / 57 pounds lesser than Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren). Cairn Terrier may live 3 years more than Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren). Both Cairn Terrier and Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) has same litter size. Cairn Terrier requires Low maintenance. But Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) requires Moderate maintenance

History

cairn terrier - historyThe Cairn Terrier originates in the Scottish Highlands. This feisty little dog was given the name Cairn, as he used to hunt prey between the Scottish cairns. At first the dog was grouped as a ‘Skye Terrier’way back in the 1900s with the Scottish and West Highland White Terrier. Then the different breeds began to be bred separately.

The name Cairn Terrier didn’t appear in print till 1887. It was in 1912 that the Kennel Club of the United Kingdom recognized the Cairn Terrier.

belgian shepherd dog tervuren - historyReferred to as the ‘Terv’, this dog from Belguim was created in the late 19th century. He is one of 4 varieties of Belgian Shepherd and he has a long, fawn colored coat. It was in 1892 that the first show for Belgian Shepherds took place and it was the Tervuren variety that won.

Breeders of these dogs gave each of the four varieties their own name, and the name Tervuren comes from a Belguim village. This is where M.F. Corbeel bred dogs, believed to be the foundation of the Tervuren breed.

In World War I, many of these dogs were used by the military for war related jobs. Some of these dogs were imported to America for breeding and in 1959 it was considered a separate breed from other Belgian Sheepdogs.

Description

Temperament:

cairn terrier puppy - descriptionThe small sturdily built working Terrier is intelligent and courageous. Bright-eyed, he is small and active and he just loves to work- and party hard with his human family. You’ll see if you’ve got a ball you want to throw for him, his tail is quivering in anticipation and his ears are erect and alert to any noise. He is smart, independent and courageous.

Coat of Many Colors:

The Cairn Terrier has a tough, weather-resistant coat that can be any color but not white. He has a waterproof double coat – the outer one being wiry while the undercoat is soft. You’ll find the coat in man colours such as grey, black, red and brindle with dark points on the ears and muzzle.

The interesting thing with a Cairn is that when you get a puppy, you can’t be sure what color he will end up being as it changes over the years. The ears are fox-like, small and erect, and the natural medium-to-short tail is held straight out.

Attractively Elegant

belgian shepherd dog tervuren puppy - descriptionThe Tervuren is a medium to large sized, well muscled dog achieving heights of up to 66cm. He has an attractively elegant, regal look to him. The dog has a double coat which is weather resistant. The overall length of the coat which is fawn to mahogany is medium to long and the outer coat is straight with black tips. The males have almost like a mane of hair around the neck that you won’t necessarily find with the females. The tail is long and feathery

The Tervuren is Full of Beans

The Belgian Tervuren is alert and intelligent. His has a long-shaped face with a black mask and upright ears that are sharp and receptive to every sound. He is a herding dog and is full of energy – used to having a job that keeps him busy.

If you don’t want your Tervurens to become destruction, you will need to keep him busy and not just keep him cooped up in the back yard. This particular dog breed is a devoted, loyal pet and forms a strong bond with his human family. However, he will need to be trained and socialized if you want him to behave well around children and pets in the home.

Characteristics

cairn terrier dog - characteristicsThe Cairn Terrier is a fearless, jaunty little dog, known for his courageous spirit and inquisitive nature. He may be small, but he is stubborn. He will respond well to training and socialization which will turn him into the most awesome pet for families. He can make a wonderful friend and playmate for children too. Socialization and training ensures he gets on well with other pets in the household too.

He is small and energetic, and therefore not the kind of dog you can ignore in terms of exercise. He’ll need a good walk every day and he just loves to chase a ball as it takes him back to the days when he was used to chasing- and catching mice.

He isn’t your typical lap-dog at all and with the right care he becomes a devoted, loyal and loving companion.

belgian shepherd dog tervuren dog - characteristicsWith his beautiful face and lustrous coat, this is a pet that you’re always going to be proud of. Not only that, he is active too, a great watchdog and a fantastic family companion.

To keep your Tervuren spritely and contented, ensure he has a high quality diet designed for active herding dogs. He is intelligent too and training and socialization will turn him into an exceptional pet for you. Provide him with lots of human companionship, give him nutritious food and see that any ailments he has are attended to by the vet and you’ll have your attractive pet around with you for up to 12, 13, 14 or 15 years.

Health Problems

cairn terrier puppies - health problemsThe Cairn Terrier is a robust little dog, and with good care can reach 14 years of age and even older. However, with every dog breed there are some health concerns particular to that breed. With your Cairn Terrier look out for a disease known as Globoid cell leukodystrophy (GCL).

Globoid cell leukodystrophy (GCL)

Known also as Krabbe Disease, Globoid cell leukodystrophy (GLD) is a rare but fatal disease. It is caused by a mutation on the dog’s DNA. There is abnormal processing of an enzyme needed for the production of myelin, a substance that protects the nerves in the brain and spinal cord. The dog is weak, it has tremors and isn’t co-ordinated. The Cairn Terrier is a breed of dog more susceptible to GCL.

Bone and joint diseases

Your Cairn Terrier may well suffer with joint diseases. These diseases, such as luxating patella which is about loose knee joints, and hip dysplasia which is a degenerative hip disease, can cause plenty of pain and discomfort for your pet.

Eye Diseases

Glaucoma is an eye disease where there is pressure on the eye, causing inadequate fluid drainage. Without treatment, there can be damage to the optic nerve which can lead to blindness.

belgian shepherd dog tervuren puppies - health problemsYour Tervuren is a robust, healthy dog breed and with the right food, love and attention, you’re not going to have major health concerns with him. Skin allergies, eye problems and hip dysplasia might be something you want to be aware of.

Skin Allergies

A dry, itchy skin with incessant scratching from your pet might require a visit to the vet. If left untreated, an itchy skin and a scratching dog can lead to secondary skin infections and even hair loss. Check for allergies or fleas, and remember that apart from medical management of fleas and ticks, dogs with a dull coat will require a supplement with omega 3 fatty acids.

Hip Dysplasia

A common skeletal disorder with malformation of the hip brought on by environmental- and genetic factors. Recognizing the signs of hip dysplasia is important for your dog to help him with pain.

Caring The Pet

Grooming:

cairn terrier dogs - caringThe Cairn Terrier sheds very little and the coat is easy to groom. Give him a thorough brushing twice a week to rid him of loose hairs. Some trimming will be needed as the coat can become shaggy and unruly.

Brush his teeth at least 2 or 3 times a week to prevent tartar build up that can lead to bacteria, gum disease and possible tooth loss.

Diet:

The Cairn Terrier is small but he is an active dog and therefore needs to be on a high-quality dog food. If you feed him a commercially manufactured food, make sure its appropriate to his age, size and activity levels.

He is a small dog so you want to be careful about not letting him become overweight. Try and alternate his commercially manufactured food with some home-made rice, vegetables and meat and also include some raw meat in from time to time. This is of particular importance as chronic skin allergies are common in all terrier breeds. Make sure that there is always a clean bowl of fresh water available to him day and night.

Regular Brushing is Required

belgian shepherd dog tervuren dogs - caringYour Terv is a double-coated dog and he will shed his hair throughout the year. Brushing him at least twice in the week will be necessary to get rid of the hair he sheds. Apart from brushing him and keeping his beautiful coat shiny and healthy, other grooming needs will include clipping his nails and dental hygiene. Brushing his teeth 2 or 3 times a week with specialized dog toothpaste and toothbrush will help with keeping plaque and bacteria at bay.

Feeding

Speak to your vet about feeding your Tervuren puppy as he will need at least 4 bowls of food while he is so tiny. By the time he is a year old, he will be able to have 1 or 2 meals a day. Always make sure you feel him high quality food which can be home-made food or commercially manufactured food.

To ensure he doesn’t suffer with any skin allergies, he will need to have some raw meat mixed into his food from time to time. Always provide fresh water for him and make sure to wash the bowls out often.

Basic Information

Group:
Terrier dog
Herding dogs
Origin:
United Kingdom
Belgium
Height Male:
25 - 33 cm
9 - 13 inches
61 - 66 cm
24 - 26 inches
Height Female:
23 - 33 cm
9 - 13 inches
56 - 61 cm
22 - 25 inches
Weight Male:
5 - 8 kg
11 - 18 pounds
29 - 34 kg
63 - 75 pounds
Weight Female:
5 - 8 kg
11 - 18 pounds
27 - 32 kg
59 - 71 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 10
6 - 10
Size:
Small dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Cairn, Toto Dog
Belgian Tervueren Chien de Berger Belge
Colors Available:
Black, Brindle, Cream, Wheaten, Red, Grey
Fawn, red, grey with black overlay
Coat:
Medium length and wiry
Dense with long, straight outercoat
Shedding:
Minimal
Moderate, Constant, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
Yes
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Jack Russell Terrier vs Cairn Terrier - Breed Comparison
  2. Miniature Schnauzer vs Cairn Terrier - Breed Comparison
  3. Cairn Terrier vs Boston Terrier - Breed Comparison
  4. Cairn Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  5. Cairn Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Cairn Terrier vs Australian Terrier - Breed Comparison
  7. Cairn Terrier vs American Hairless Terrier - Breed Comparison
  8. Cairn Terrier vs Bull Terrier Miniature - Breed Comparison
  9. Cairn Terrier vs Black and Tan Terrier - Breed Comparison
  10. Cairn Terrier vs Cairland Terrier - Breed Comparison
  11. Rat Terrier vs Cairn Terrier - Breed Comparison
  12. Scottish Terrier vs Cairn Terrier - Breed Comparison
  13. Patterdale Terrier vs Cairn Terrier - Breed Comparison
  14. Norwich Terrier vs Cairn Terrier - Breed Comparison
  15. Norfolk Terrier vs Cairn Terrier - Breed Comparison
  16. English White Terrier vs Cairn Terrier - Breed Comparison
  17. Parson Russell Terrier vs Cairn Terrier - Breed Comparison
  18. Russell Terrier vs Cairn Terrier - Breed Comparison
  19. Feist vs Cairn Terrier - Breed Comparison
  20. Manchester Terrier vs Cairn Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Dandie Dinmont Terrier vs Cairn Terrier - Breed Comparison
  22. Miniature Fox Terrier vs Cairn Terrier - Breed Comparison
  23. Cesky Terrier vs Cairn Terrier - Breed Comparison
  24. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Cairn Terrier - Breed Comparison
  25. Schnorkie vs Cairn Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  27. Collie vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  28. Dutch Shepherd vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  29. Blue Healer vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  30. English Shepherd vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  31. Catahoula Cur vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  32. Catalan Sheepdog vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  33. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  34. Bergamasco vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  35. Appenzell Mountain Dog vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  36. Queensland Heeler vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  37. German Coolie vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  38. Bohemian Shepherd vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  39. Croatian Sheepdog vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  40. Red Heeler vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  41. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  42. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  43. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  44. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  45. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  46. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  47. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  48. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Berger Picard - Breed Comparison
  49. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  50. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Laekenois) - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds