Airedale Terrier
Appearance
| Airedale Terrier Quick Summary | |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | King of Terriers |
| Origin | England |
| Lineage | Pedigree |
| Size | Medium |
| Height (at withers) | 22-24in (56-61cm) |
| Weight | 55-65lbs (25-30kg) |
| Hair Colour(s) | Tan, red |
| Lifespan | 13-15 years |
| Energy Level | Moderate |
| Litter size | 9 |
| Shedding | Low |
| Grooming | Medium |
| Barking Tendency | Mild |
| Exercise requirements | High |
| Ease of training | Medium |
| Suitability for kids | Low |
| Animal compatability | Low |
| Aggression levels | Medium |
| Distress if left | Low |
The Airedale Terrier is a sturdy looking dog and the largest of the terriers, giving rise to its nickname of The King of Terriers. It has a flat, elongated head, a deep chest, and straight front legs. It wears a rough, wiry coat that resists dampness, generally coloured black or grizzle mixed with tan, which is lined by a softer undercoat. It has a distinctive face and expression, with a beard, and the ears fold forward. The tail is short, does not curl over the back, and is often docked.
Temperament
Airedale Terriers are confident, intelligent and often couragous dogs. As a result they make protective and loyal pets as well as good entertainers. They are agile and energetic and need plenty of play and exercise to keep them occupied, otherwise they can become bored and destructive. Like all terriers, they can be stubborn and willful and are therefore best suited for experienced dog owners, as firm yet positive training is required. They make good watchdogs and are usually either friendly or polite with strangers. This breed can be aggressive towards other dogs and also have a high prey drive, meaning they are not the best choice of dog for those with smaller pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs. And as they can play a little rough at times, they are not suitable for families with smaller children.
History & Skills
Airedale Terriers originate from England, and due to their hardy constitution, alertness, intelligence, and speed in obeying commands they were used for a number of purposes, including military work, controlling vermin, and hunting. During World War One they were used as ambulance dogs for locating wounded soldiers on battlefields. As well as being good hunters, Airedale Terriers are also very strong swimmers, which is why they were once called the Waterside Terrier. Their previous talents for locating soldiers wounded in battle is often used today by both the police and the military, who put them to work in search and rescue situations.
Breed Specific Ailments
Airedale Terriers tend to live between 13-15 years. This breed has a high pain threshold and a hardy constitution, so detecting illness can often be difficult. Vigilance is required to detect any early symptoms of disease, including hip dysplasia, von Willebrand’s disease and low thyroid function. Like many terriers, they are also vulnerable to skin allergies.
Grooming
Airedale Terriers are low shedders when groomed regularly and so may be suitable for those suffering from allergies. The coat should be brushed a few times each week in order to keep it in good condition, but bathing is only required when necessary (although the face may need regular washing to remove food). The beard should be combed on a daily basis to keep it clean and hygienic, and the bottom and areas between the foot pads will need to be kept trimmed and tidy. For show dogs, stripping of the dead coat may be required every few months.
Exercise & Environment
These dogs are natural athletes and love any form of physical exercise, such as running and swimming, and especially active play such as fetch.
Recognition
 | FCI - Federation Cynologique Internationale | |
 | The Kennel Club (UK) | |
 | AKC - American Kennel Club |
Breed Clubs
Coming soon!
Owners Gallery
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