Although there is a bit of confusion concerning the background and origin of the Scottish Terrier, researchers do have conclusive documentation and information that shows this dog breed thriving back to the late 1800s.

What is the confusion about? For starters, we used to refer to all terrier-types that were from Scotland as “Scottish Terriers”. In addition, today's official Scottish Terrier used to be grouped as a “Skye Terrier”. Whatever the origin may be, early Scottish Terriers were some of the hardest working hunting dogs alive. They would go in strong pursuit of their prey through any condition and terrain.

The Irish Terrier is known as the world's oldest Terrier breed. It is said to have descended from the Black and Tan Terrier, also mixed with a larger and more streamlined wheaten colored Terrier. There is no official documentation to list this ancestry, but researchers are pretty confident with this estimation. Other information leads us to believe that the Irish Terrier may also have roots from the Irish Wolfhound dog breed.

Puppies love to dig! It's in their blood and it is quite often their favorite pastime. This is especially true for young puppies that stem from the sporting group, the terrier group, and the Nordic group.

Digging is also a dog's way of relieving stress and "letting it all out" so to speak. If a puppy is experiencing anxiety levels due to a new baby in the house, a recent move, strange people, or lack of attention, then he is going to dig in order to help himself feel better.

Fortunately there are ways in which you can help diminish your puppy's digging behavior so that it is less destructive to your belongings while at the same time giving him a place to dig without being punished for it.