By 1917 a club was formed and by 1918 the U.S. had its first champion Cairn terrier. The Cairn Terrier is a big dog in a little body. They are typically long-lived and healthy. The AKC standard calls for a female to stand nine inches at the withers and a male 10 inches. Most modern Cairns are slightly in excess of that height, possibly due to better nutrition.
Cairns have large teeth, strong legs and feet for digging, and a hard, weather-resistant coat.
They are excellent watch dogs, barking whenever anyone comes to the door. Like most small terriers, Cairns are not quiet. Actually Cairns come in many colors ranging from cream and wheaten to red, and almost solid black. Darker hair on the muzzle, ears, and tail tip is desirable. Many Cairns darken as they age.