Scottish Terriers probably date back to the early Middle Ages. Their small size compared to other dogs contrasted strikingly with remarkable strength and tremendous courage. In ancient times, rats, hamsters, and other small rodents were considered the scourge of England. Scottish terriers were called upon to cope with them, at the same time to scare away badgers and foxes. Moreover, Scotland, with its swampy climate, needed the help of terriers more than the south.