The Cairn Terrier originated over two hundred years ago in the Highlands of Scotland and on the Isle of Skye. No one has been able to discover the breed's exact origin.

However, It is reasonably certain that the Cairn is one of Britain's oldest Terrier breeds. From a study of art and written works, also records, it seems that the Cairn we know today differs little from aboriginal Highland Terrier of centuries ago.

What is known is that for centuries a hardy, short-legged dog was bred by gamekeepers and crofters in the northern reaches of Scotland. This little dog was of no distinct breed. Some had prick ears, some ears were dropped. Most had harsh, weather-resistant coats. They were small, hard-working dogs who earned their living by hunting everything from rats to badgers.

The Cairn (that name did not crop up for the breed much before 1910) was not bred for looks but for gameness in going to ground.

It is said that many of this little "Earthdog" were without the tips of their noses, a disfigurement caused by underground encounters from which they emerged victorious but scarred. This was considered a badge of honor. However, it is also led to a common misconception that Cairn were bred to go to ground and kill their prey.

They're loud barking, still very much in evidence today, let their masters know where they were underground as they worked their quarry.