Cairn Terrier vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Cairn Terrier and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Cairn Terrier
Spirited, clever, and endlessly curious, this small breed thrives on adventure and companionship. Always ready to entertain, Cairn Terriers bring joy and energy to any home.
Golden Retriever
A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.
Quick comparison
Small
6–7.5 kg
Double coat, harsh outercoat
13–15 years
6–7.5 kg
High energy
Large
29–34 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
10–12 years
25–29 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Cairn Terrier
Generally sociable and good with families
Quick to learn and solve simple problems
Very active and needs daily exercise
Enjoys games and interactive playtime
Adjusts well to new environments and routines
Golden Retriever
Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs
Quick to learn commands and routines
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Cairn Terrier
Patellar luxation, allergies
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Cairn Terrier
Good option
Adaptable and intelligent, but needs consistent training and guidance from new owners.
Apartment friendly
Small size and moderate exercise needs suit most apartment settings well.
Very suitable
Enjoys play and activity, fitting well with energetic, active lifestyles.
Playful companion
Generally gentle but supervision is needed due to their excitable nature.
Can coexist
Tends to get along with other pets if socialized early and well.
Not recommended
Dislikes being left alone and may develop separation anxiety or destructive habits.
Golden Retriever
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage
Needs space
Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people
Perfect fit
Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Cairn Terrier
- Alert and responsive to surroundings
- Loyal and affectionate with family
- Adapts well to various living spaces
- Generally healthy with long lifespan
- Enjoys interactive play and activities
Golden Retriever
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
- Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Cairn Terrier
- Prone to digging and chasing small animals
- Can be stubborn during training sessions
- Requires regular grooming to prevent matting
- May be vocal or bark frequently
- Needs consistent mental and physical stimulation
Golden Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions
Ready to choose your perfect breed?
Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
Discover more helpful tools
Make use of our other free tools to get the most out of your pet experience