Cairn Terrier

Yes. Toto in the 1939 film was played by a female Cairn Terrier called Terry, who appeared in several other films of the era. The role made the breed famous in the United States almost overnight. The book's original illustrations show a dog of less certain type, but the film version is firmly a Cairn.

The two share ancestry in the Scottish Highlands, but the Westie is always white and has a rounder, more sculpted head outline created by grooming. Cairns come in many colors, look shaggier and more natural, and have a slightly foxier face. In temperament Cairns are often considered a touch more relaxed, although both are confident, busy terriers.

Only lightly, if the coat is hand-stripped twice a year. Dead hair then comes out in the stripping session rather than on your sofa. A clipped Cairn often sheds more, because the dead outer hair is cut short but not removed. No dog is truly allergy-free, but people with mild sensitivities often find a well-groomed Cairn manageable.

Hand-stripping keeps the proper harsh, water-resistant texture and the rich color. Clipping is quicker and cheaper, and many pet owners choose it, but the coat usually becomes softer, paler and more likely to hold dirt. A middle path is to have a groomer strip the coat twice a year while you do weekly brushing and tidy the feet at home.

Many do, particularly when raised alongside a calm cat from puppyhood. Introduce them slowly, with the puppy on lead and the cat able to escape to high shelves. Even Cairns that respect their own cat often chase outdoor ones, and their hunting background means rabbits, guinea pigs and rodents are rarely safe with them.