Best Dog Food for Cairn Terriers
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What’s the best dog food for Cairn Terriers?
Cairn Terriers (Cairn meaning ‘pile of stones’) are a small breed of dog originating from the Highlands of Scotland.
They have a double coat that is harsh and wiry on top and downy beneath and come in many colors, including red, black, sand and gray.
They are busy little earthdogs historically bred to root out foxes and other small, furred prey in the rocky Scottish countryside.
According to figures from the American Kennel Club, Cairn Terriers are ranked as the 70th most popular dog in the US.
To avoid your Cairn Terrier gaining weight, it’s important to control their calorie intake. Opt for a dog food that is formulated to meet the energy needs of a moderately active dog, and be mindful of portion sizes.
Look for dog food that includes sources of omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish oil or flaxseed. These fatty acids can promote healthy skin, a shiny coat, and support overall well-being.
Avoid dog foods with excessive fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products. These can be less nutritious and may cause allergies or sensitivities in some dogs.
Remember, if you have any specific concerns or questions about your Cairn Terrier diet, seek advice from your veterinarian.
In the meantime, read our recommendations for the best dog food for Cairn Terriers below.
You’ll also learn the answer to each of the most frequently asked questions we get about Cairn Terriers.
Best Dog Food for Cairn Terriers April 2024
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best dog food brands for Cairn Terriers for April 2024.
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1. Nulo
Nulo Freestyle Adult Small Breed Salmon & Red Lentils is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Nulo Freestyle Dry product line.
Nulo Freestyle Adult Small Breed Salmon & Red Lentils derives the bulk of its protein from fish. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 34.4% protein, 18.9% fat and 38.7% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 55%.
Protein in the freestyle diets for dogs comes from animal sources, which provides your dog with the ideal amino acid profile! Grain-free, using ingredients like sweet potatoes and chickpeas as low-glycemic, whole-food carbohydrate sources.
Read our review of the full Nulo FreeStyle Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned salmon, turkey meal, menhaden fish meal, lamb meal, red lentils Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 34.4% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies and Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Nulo.com"I’ve long understood the value of buying a quality food, with fewer ingredients that I can pronounce, less fillers, and meat as one of the top ingredients. So I was glad to see how quickly my dog took to eating the Nulo small breed. Not only did she eat it readily but there has been no stomach issues from the change. I will definitely continue to feed Nulo."
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2. Solid Gold
Solid Gold Mighty Mini Chicken, Chickpea & Pumpkin Recipe is one of 15 dry recipes included in our review of the Solid Gold Grain-Free product line.
Solid Gold Mighty Mini Chicken, Chickpea & Pumpkin Recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33.3% protein, 20% fat and 38.7% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.
This grain and gluten free chicken and hearty vegetable recipe is packed with easily digestible protein, a unique blend of nutrient-dense superfoods and omega fatty acids to provide gut health and overall immune support.
Read our review of the full Solid Gold Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, chickpeas, peas, pea protein Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 33.3% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies and Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I love this! So glad my momma switched from the chicken to the beef! I eat it up every time."
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3. Nom Nom
Nom Nom Chicken Cuisine is one of 4 fresh recipes included in our review of the Nom Nom Fresh product line.
Nom Nom Chicken Cuisine derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 37% protein, 26.1% fat and 29% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 71%.
Every meat and veggie is gently cooked individually, then mixed in batches to seal in vital nutrients and maximize digestibility.
Read our review of the full Nom Nom Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, sweet potatoes, squash, water sufficient for processing, spinach Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 37% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies and Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at NomNomNow"Mya has suffered from colitis & IBS for many years, and she’s also the pickiest with food. Since being on Nom Nom she is eating much better & has perfect poop!!!"
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4. Halo
Halo Small Breed Grain-Free Chicken & Salmon is one of 2 wet recipes included in our review of the Halo Canned product line.
Halo Small Breed Grain-Free Chicken & Salmon derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43.2% protein, 22.7% fat and 26.1% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 53%.
No poultry by-product meals, no corn, wheat or soy and no artificial colors or preservatives.
Read our review of the full Halo Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver, salmon, carrots Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 43.2% AAFCO Standards Adult Maintenance Best For Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at HaloPets.com"Of course my babies think this is wonderful. I give a little along with dry food just to vary their diet."
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5. Ollie
Ollie Lamb Dish with Cranberries is one of 5 fresh recipes included in our review of the Ollie Fresh product line.
Ollie Lamb Dish with Cranberries derives the bulk of its meat protein from lamb. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38.5% protein, 26.9% fat and 26.6% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 70%.
High-quality food with no by-products or fillers.
Read our review of the full Ollie Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Lamb, butternut squash, lamb liver, chickpeas, kale Type Grain-Inclusive Protein Percentage 38.5% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies and Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Ollie"George absolutely loves Ollie’s Fresh Lamb recipe. He’s been eating it now for about 6 months and I’ve noticed a big difference in his energy levels and his coat. The only thing I wish is that I would have started using Ollie much sooner."
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6. The Honest Kitchen
The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Chicken & Oat Small Breed Blend. is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters product line.
The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Chicken & Oat Small Breed Blend. derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27.8% protein, 17.6% fat and 46.5% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
Fresh ingredients with minimal processing provides pets with the best nutrition possible. 100% human grade clusters are made with cage free chicken (no rendered meals!), oats, veggies, salmon oil and probiotics in proportions just right for little dogs.
Read our review of the full Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, oats, barley, chicken liver, carrots Type Grain-Inclusive Protein Percentage 27.8% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies and Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at TheHonestKitchen.com"My dog loves these Clusters! I’m very picky what I feed my dog. I check ingredients carefully to make sure I’m feeding the best healthy ingredients. Honest Kitchen has high standards"
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7. Redbarn
Redbarn Air Dried Fish Recipe is one of 3 dry recipes included in our review of the Redbarn Air Dried product line.
Redbarn Air Dried Fish Recipe derives the bulk of its protein from fish. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36.4% protein, 25% fat and 30.6% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 69%.
This recipe is complete and balanced with a blend of wholesome ingredients like salmon oil, flaxseed, miscanthus grass, and vitamins and minerals.
Read our review of the full Redbarn Air Dried Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Ocean fish, sunflower oil, dicalcium phosphate, miscanthus grass, coconut flour Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 36.4% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies and Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at RedBarn.com"My dog is a picky eater, but he absolutely loves Redbarn air dried food!! He thinks he is eating a treat when I give it to him. Thank you Redbarn for another high quality food that my dog goes crazy for!!"
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Here are the most frequently asked questions we get about feeding Cairn Terriers:
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is a Cairn Terrier?
Cairn Terriers stand about 9 to 10 to inches (23 to 25 cm) tall, are about 15 inches (38 cm) in length and weigh about 13 or 14 pounds (5 to 6 kg). They have a broad head and small, erect ears. Their body is compact, legs are relatively short and their tail is natural and carried high.
What temperament do Cairn Terriers have?
Cairn Terriers are a wonderful family companion, fun and entertaining and great with children. They are curious, quick to learn and like all Terriers very independent — although they can be stubborn so need to know who is in charge with early obedience training.
How much exercise do Cairn Terriers need?
Due to their small size Cairn Terriers can thrive in any setting from a small apartment to large farm, providing they have a sufficient amount of exercise, eg a long daily walk or vigorous play for 20 to 30 minutes a day.
What health conditions do Cairn Terriers have?
Cairn Terriers are generally a healthy breed, however, possible conditions that may affect them are diabetes, hip dysplasia, dental issues and allergies.
Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet are important for maintaining their health and well-being.
