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

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

Active
Playful
Energetic
Protective
Alert
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Loyal
Fearless
Brave
Bright
Hard working
Resourceful

Active
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Responsive
Quick
Joyful
Inquisitive
Fearless
Assertive

Box Heelers are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Silky Cairns are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

Blue Heeler and Boxer

Cairn Terrier, Silky Terrier

DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

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

Brown

Hazel
Brown

Black

Black

Brindle
Blue

Black
Brown
Cream
Fawn
Gray
Blue
White
Silver
Brindle

Box Heelers have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Silky Cairns have medium-length coats.

Box Heelers are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Silky Cairns have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

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

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

Usually Very Healthy

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Mitral Valve Dysplasia
Craniomandibular Osteopathy (Lion Jaw)

Eye Problems
Gastric Dilation Volvulus

Patellar Luxation
Cataracts
Glaucoma
Hemophilia
Pyruvate Kinase (PK) Deficiency
Atopy

X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Eye Examinations
Blood Tests
X-rays or other radiographic imaging
Electrocardiograph (ECG - measures rate and rhythm)

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

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

Box Heelers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Silky Cairns sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Chase, Catch treats, Car rides, Walk, Run, Tug-of-war, Playdate, Chase tail, Eating, Play fetch, Cuddling, Take on walks, Hanging out, Chewing antlers, Daily walks, Jeep rides, Dog Parks, Fetch, Hike, Swim, Cuddle, Shake, Hiking, Running, Swimming, Sleeping, Keep away, Fetching, Go Camping, Cuddles

Road trip, Dog Parks, Hikes

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Box Heeler, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Silky Cairn, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

In general most Box Heelers usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Silky Cairns usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

The Box Heeler is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

Silky Cairns require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Scissors
Nail Clipper

For an average 35-80 pound (16 - 36 kg) Box Heeler feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 9-10 pound (4 - 5 kg) Silky Cairn feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

The average cost of a Box Heeler is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

The average cost of a Silky Cairn is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

The average per month expenses of a Box Heeler is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Silky Cairn is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

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

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

Box Heelers have an average level of friendliness towards children.

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

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

Silky Cairns are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

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

Silky Cairns are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.