Carin terrier's are extremely active and are problem solvers. They will think of the best way to get what they want. They are also climbers, and can climb a chain link fence. If you are not an active person and more of a couch potato, a Cairn terrier is probably not for you. They are also very loving and loyal active family dogs.
Currently raising a Cairn. Not sure how you came to the conclusion this type of dog could function well in a city.....They are energy machines, lol. I guess it could work if you train it to run on a treadmill.
Those suggested prices given at the end are a joke! Prices for Cairns started at $1000 quite a few years ago and that's not for a show quality dog. They are wonderful dogs!
I got my cairn terrier for $400 Canadian like $250 US about 7 years ago. But i didn't got her from a breeder. On the contrary she is the friendliest dog and is not smart at all. Actually stupid but super playful. Great disposition. Loves people, kids and other dogs. Even cat. Only exception is squirrels and other vermons or rabbits cause their natural instinct is to hunt them.