While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Cairneses are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Unfortunately, the Shepweiler is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Active
Playful
Courageous
Intelligent
Responsive
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Fearless
Companionable
Assertive
Sturdy
Amiable
Charming

Curious
Independent
Protective
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Confident
Obedient
Loyal
Fearless
Good-natured
Watchful

Cairneses are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

Shepweilers are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

United States

United States

Havanese, Cairn Terrier

Rottweiler, German Shepherd

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

1990s

2000s

A Cairnese can have a litter of 2-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Shepweiler can have a litter of 8-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

While the Cairnese breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Shepweilers typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
Degenerative Myelopathy
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

Patellar Luxation
Cataracts
Glaucoma

Entropion
Ectropion
Panosteitis
Eye Conditions (Cataracts, Lens Luxation)

Eye
Hip
Knee
X-Rays
Physical Examination

Eye Examination
Skin Evaluation
Cardiac Ultrasound
Diagnostic Imaging
Electromyography (EMG)

Cairnese has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Shepweiler has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

The Cairnese requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

The Shepweiler has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

The Cairnese is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Shepweilers are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Cairneses make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Shepweilers are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Cairneses are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Shepweilers are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Cairneses are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Shepweilers are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Cairneses are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Shepweilers are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Cairneses are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Shepweilers have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

The Cairnese is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.

Shepweilers are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.