The Airedale Terrier is the largest of the Terrier Dog Breeds.
Alternate Names
Airedale
Bingley Terrier
Waterside Terrier
Referred to as “The King of Terriers” due to their size.
Appearance
Has a resemblance to a Terrier
Body: A short, strong and level body with a deep, but not broad, chest.
Coat: Harsh, dense and wiry topcoat with a soft, fur-like undercoat. Broken-coated breeds shed less than smooth coated breeds.
Color: Usually a black saddle with a tan head, ears and legs; or a dark, grizzle saddle mixed with gray and white. The ears and beard are always tan.
Ears: Small and v-shaped.
Eyes: Small and dark.
Face:
Feet: Small, round and compact with thick well-cushioned pads and slightly arched toes.
Head: Long and flat with a slight narrowing from the ears to between the eyes.
Legs: The forelegs are perfectly straight, muscular and thickly boned, and the stifles are well-bent.
Neck: Short and straight.
Size:
Weight 50 – 70 pounds (23 – 32kg)
Height 22-24 inches (61 – 71cm)
Tail:
Behavior
Recommended for experienced dog handlers.
Not recommended for apartment living.
The Airedale Terrier is a highly energetic dog with a happy personality. They can be feisty, overconfident, and very demanding of what they want from you. They are avid swimmers and can adapt to most climates.
Although they are a reliable and protective family pet with an excellent temperament, the Airedale has a tendency to be aggressive and get into fights with other dogs.
The Airedale is independent, intelligent, strong-minded, and has a great sense of humor. They are also considered to be one of the easiest of all the terriers to train. However, they have a tendency, especially when convenient, to forget what they have learned.
This is not a dog suited for apartment life. If you are thinking of owning an Airedale please be sure you are able to provide regular daily exercise and play to keep them fit and happy.
Breed Type
AKC Group: Sporting Group
Terrier – The Airedale was used in World War One to deliver messages to soldiers behind enemy lines. They were also used by the Red Cross to locate wounded soldiers on the battlefield.
He is adept at hunting deer, wild boar and bear. They also hunt badger and otter. They were used by fishermen to hunt otter in England because of the otter’s appetite for fish.
Care and Grooming
Exercise: Regular daily exercise is necessary.
Grooming: Coat should be plucked two times yearly. Show dogs require more regular grooming. The Airedale’s harsh, dense and wiry topcoat can be difficult to groom.
Health
Life Expectancy: 12 – 17 Years
Possible Problems:
Allergies – could lead to skin problems
Bloat – Possible signs are anxiety, pacing, drooling heavily, and/or retching.
Hip dysplasia
Separation Anxiety – This may be evidenced by lack of trust or nervousness, especially when the owner is preparing to leave or just after they have left. The dog may show exaggerated signs of digging, chewing, salivating or urinating inside. Urination may increase if the dog is scolded. Being patient and allowing the dog to gain your trust is important in developing a confident, well-behaved Airedale.
Genetic Dispositions: Some lines are prone to Hip Dysplasia but this breed is otherwise generally free of inherited diseases.
Country of Origin
Great Britain (England) – originated in Yorkshire