Over all, the Cairn requires less grooming than most other breeds. Routine grooming should include regular brushing, toenail clipping or filing, teeth brushing, and occasional baths. In addition, hand stripping should be done periodically to remove dead hair and permit new hair growth.  A rescue Cairn is not familiar usually, with a grooming process.  Clipping the coat of a Cairn is truly acceptable and can be done professionally or by the dog owner.  Using the Mars Coat King and Furminator in between clipping will keep your shedding to a sure minimum and keep the coat maintained so that clipping should only occur twice a year.