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Cairn Terrier puppies and dogs in Santa Cruz, California

Looking for a Cairn Terrier puppy or dog in Santa Cruz, California? Adopt a Pet can help you find an adorable Cairn Terrier near you.

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Adopt a Cairn Terrier near you in Santa Cruz, California

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Or, how about these Cairn Terriers in cities near Santa Cruz, California

These Cairn Terriers are available for adoption close to Santa Cruz, California.
We'll also keep you updated on Fletcher's adoption status with email updates.
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Fletcher

Cairn Terrier Mixed Breed (Small)

Male, 6 yrs
Pacific Grove, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs,
Story
** New to our program, Fletcher is not yet available for adoption, but applications are currently being accepted now! ** Meet Fletcher! Fletcher recently made quite the journey to Pacific Grove all the way from Sacramento. As one of AFRP’s newest arrivals, we’re still getting to know this sweet terrier mix, but we do know he has quite the gentle soul! Fletcher is a shy pup, and we don't know too much about his time before he entered the shelter system. While we learn more about him, please note that he will be looking for loving, patient adopters who can help him blossom into the confident boy we know he can be! Please note that Fletcher has not yet been neutered or received his full medical evaluation. Because of this, his availability and timeline for adoption may change as we learn more about him Applications for Fletcher are currently being accepted and reviewed by AFRP staff. If you’re interested in being considered, please visit our website at www.animalfriendsrescue.org to complete our online adoption application.
We'll also keep you updated on Hollywood's adoption status with email updates.
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Photo of Hollywood

Hollywood

Cairn Terrier

Male, Adult
Palo Alto, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
All of our dogs are spayed/neutered, shots current (DHPP, Bordetella and Rabies where applicable), dewormed, flea and tick treated, and microchipped.  * If you are interested in a dog, please first read the biography on the dog (keep scrolling down for the bio!) and then go to our website, www.dpsrescue.com for an application. Our adoption fees vary. Each biography will specifically list the adoption fee.This dog will be at the Palo Alto Pet Food Express on Saturday, February 21st from 12-3pm unless adopted prior to the event. To be considered for adoption, please submit an application in advance at https://www.dpsrescue.com/adopt/dog-application. Adoption fee: $750 Meet Hollywood   Hollywood is a 1–2 year old, 8 lb Cairn Terrier with a bright spirit and an even brighter heart. From the moment he was rescued from the shelter, he proved himself to be a shining star— sweet, adaptable, and deeply appreciative of comfort, companionship, and kindness. Despite a rough start that left him underweight and worn down, Hollywood has blossomed in foster care into a happy, affectionate, and easy little dog who fits seamlessly into family life.   Daily Life and Routine Hollywood’s day usually begins around 7 a.m. with a trip outside to potty. Mornings are lively and social— he happily follows his foster family around as they get ready, and he especially enjoys helping wake the kids with enthusiastic kisses. Once the house settles and breakfast is served (around 8:15 a.m.), Hollywood makes it very clear that he would prefer everyone else’s food to his own. He has a strong fondness for fresh food and people food, likely from his past, and he’s excellent at cleaning up anything that hits the floor— an underrated skill in a home with kids! If you're looking for your very own kitchen vacuum, Hollywood is happy to oblige.   During the day, Hollywood happily alternates between napping, light play, and frequent potty breaks. He doesn’t need constant entertainment; just being part of the household action is enough to keep him content. Afternoons often include a walk or time out and about while waiting for after-school activities, or playtime at home running around with toys and kids. Even on days without a formal walk, he’s pleasantly tired by bedtime just from keeping up with his people.   Dinner happens sometime between 5–6 p.m., often prompted by Hollywood’s very focused staring when he decides it must be dinnertime. Evenings are relaxed, with Hollywood lounging nearby during TV or reading time. He often goes to bed early with the kids and loves sleeping close to them. While he is perfectly crate trained and sleeps well there, Hollywood would be overjoyed in a home that allows him to sleep in bed with his people— his favorite place to be.   Personality and Growth When Hollywood first arrived, he was physically weak from malnutrition and needed close supervision. As his strength returned and his confidence grew, his true personality emerged. Now he’s playful, spunky, and full of life—chasing balls, squeaking toys, running through the house, and joining in games with kids and other dogs.   At his core, Hollywood is a total snuggler. He wants to be on your lap, pressed against your legs, or curled into your side whenever possible. He’s a classic velcro dog who follows his people from room to room, but he’s also happy to share his affection with the whole family. He adores kids, especially gentle ones who enjoy cuddling, and loves being part of their routines— reading on the couch, playing, and heading to bed together at night.   Dogs, Kids and Other Animals Hollywood does well with other dogs and takes social cues appropriately. He lives with dogs who sometimes correct his puppy enthusiasm, and he responds by backing off without issue. The dogs move together as a pack— potty breaks, bedtime, and general household supervision—and Hollywood fits right in.   He has been wonderful with children, including groups of kids as young as five. He is gentle, tolerant, and affectionate, even in busy, energetic situations. He has also met a cat and showed polite, curious interest without any concerning behavior.   Energy Level and Play Style Hollywood is playful and energetic when it’s time to play, but when his people settle down, he’s more than happy to turn into a couch potato. He’s calm, adaptable, and content to match the energy of the home. As he continues to gain weight and strength, his activity level may increase slightly, but he already has a great on/off switch.   On Walks and Outings Hollywood is still learning the finer points of leash walking. He doesn’t pull, but he does tend to zigzag and cross in front of you, so he’ll benefit from some practice and consistency. He may bark at other dogs while out because he wants to meet them, not out of fear or reactivity. With exposure and gentle guidance, this should improve.   He is getting more comfortable in the car— while he used to get carsick, he now mainly drools and settles with support. He rides best in a harness with a seatbelt and a soft surface to relax on.   House Training and Manners Hollywood is about 90% housetrained. With frequent potty breaks and supervision, he does very well. Occasional accidents happen when he’s not closely watched, but he responds immediately to redirection and willingly goes outside. A dog door would likely be a big help for him, as he’s still learning how to clearly communicate when he needs to go out.   He is fully crate trained and sleeps soundly at night. He doesn’t chew household items, doesn’t dig, and is not food aggressive. He enjoys Himalayan dog chews and patiently waits his turn if another dog has one.   Hollywood does bark when someone comes to the door or when he’s startled in public settings, but he settles quickly and is generally just enthusiastic and curious.   Grooming and Care Hollywood will need continued exposure to grooming, as he’s still getting used to brushing and baths. Regular grooming will be important to keep him comfortable and mat-free, including routine sanitary trims.     Why Hollywood? Hollywood is an incredibly easy, loving dog who is deeply grateful for comfort and affection. He’s adaptable, gentle, and joyful, with an old-soul sweetness that makes him a true pleasure to have around. Whether he’s snuggled in your lap, trotting after the kids, or quietly following you from room to room, Hollywood makes it clear that being with his people is what matters most to him.   Anyone lucky enough to adopt Hollywood is getting a devoted companion who will bring warmth, love, and a whole lot of heart into their home.February 10, 2026, 5:07 pm
We'll also keep you updated on Sparky's adoption status with email updates.
Special Needs
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Sparky

Cairn Terrier Terrier (Unknown Type, Small)

Male, 1 yr 11 mos
Pleasanton, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Not good with cats, Needs special attention, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Sparky is a delightful 1.5-year-old Cairn Terrier mix known for his energetic and lovable nature. He greets everyone with a wagging tail and a sparkly personality, making him a joy to be around. Sparky enjoys playing fetch, going on long walks, and spending quality time with his family. He is friendly and social, getting along well with other dogs and children aged 8 and up. As a great walking buddy, he loves outdoor activities and is mostly potty trained, though still improving. Sparky is learning commands like “sit” and “shake” and is very affectionate, enjoying kisses and snuggles. He is doing very well on a mild medication regimen for seizure prevention. While he still has some playful habits, such as nibbling fingers and occasionally ignoring commands, he is a quick learner with patience and training. Sparky is looking for a forever family to share his joyful moments with. Please complete our application on our website, 1luckydogrescue.org or contact Patricia 925-787-5825 for more information. It is helpful if information about the type of home that you will provide is included if emailing us.

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Cairn Terrier shelters & rescues in Santa Cruz, California

There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Cairn Terrier puppies in Santa Cruz, California. Browse these Cairn Terrier rescues and shelters below.

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

25.7 miles

Animal Friends Rescue Project

161 Fountain Ave, Pacific Grove, CA 93950

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

31.4 miles

Doggie Protective Services (DPS Rescue)

Palo Alto, CA 94306

Pet Types: cats, dogs, farm animals

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Rescue

49 miles

Lucky Dog Rescue

P.O. Box 1257, Pleasanton, CA 94566

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Want to learn more about adopting a Cairn Terrier puppy or dog?

We've got all the info you need on adopting and caring for a Cairn Terrier puppy. Check out the links below for everything you ever wanted to know about Cairn Terrier puppies and adults.

Cairn Terrier basics

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Where do Cairn Terriers come from? How many types of Cairn Terriers are there? From the history of the breed to question about average height, weight and size, brush up on these basic facts about the Cairn Terrier.

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