The Cairn Terrier Health Group monitors and records health conditions in the breed.

The Cairn is an active, hardy and game little dog with a life span of approximately 12 to 15 years. But like all living creatures some of them will on occasion have a health problem. If your Cairn develops a Health problem then the Cairn Terrier Health Group would welcome your report.  It is important to the future wellbeing of the breed that any conditions that may become frequent are noted early.

When reporting a condition, please send a veterinary report and copy of pedigree of the Cairn involved to Maud Hawkes, who will deal with all data on health conditions. Information can be send to her at msascience@onetel.com or cases discussed on telephone 01623 812856. All information will be treated in the strictest confidence.

Two conditions in the breed are of special concern to the Health Group.  These are Liver Shunt (PSS) and the eye condition Ocular melanosis.   It has to be stressed that cases are far from common, but it is important to try and ensure that it remains that way.

LIVER SHUNT - (Portosystemic shunt; PSS)

Though there is no test for liver shunt at the moment, research is being carried out in many countries. Hopefully in the future a DNA test will become available and then Breeders will be able to carry out their breeding plans with the hope of eliminating the chance of breeding a liver shunt puppy.

The bile acid testing of puppies is the only action available to Breeders at this time. The Cairn Terrier Health Group strongly recommends that Breeders use this test on their litters. This will give Breeders the confidence that they have done everything to avoid the heartbreak of a Pet Owner having the terrible experience of an ill puppy.

If you have had your litter bile acid tested, then please send your results and copy of pedigree to Maud,msascience@onetel.com or telephone 01623 812856.

OCULAR MELANOSIS

This is a hereditary eye condition caused by Abnormal Pigment Deposition (A.P.D.).  It is advisable to test regularly to enable early detection.   Such testing will also reveal any other eye condition the dog might have been unfortunate to develop.

The Health Group subsidises (in conjunction with the Joint Cairn Terrier Clubs) an eye testing session each year at one of the shows held by a Breed Club.

The members of the Group are happy to advise on any queries you may have concerning the health of your Cairn Terrier!