Like many dog breeds, the original Airedale terrier looked much different than the dog people are familiar with today. Originally known as the Bingley and Waterside terriers, these dogs descended from a type of black and tan terrier that is now extinct. Later crossed with the otterhound, and even later with the Manchester terrier, the modern Airedale was developed only a century ago in York. Named after the Valley of the Aire, the breed was commonly used to hunt vermin on farms. The breed was also popular in India, where it was used to hunt large game. Today’s Airedale is a companion dog, although it still enjoys the hunt now and then. These dogs make excellent police and military dogs, and are a good choice for any owner wishing to compete in obedience.
The Airedale Terrier is among the larger terriers and has long legs and strong jaws, attributes of a perfect hunter. This breed has a distinctive feature thanks to their dense, wavy coat.
Personality
The Airedale Terrier is a very energetic and lively dog breed. It is protective and makes a great watchdog. Airedale Terriers are very affectionate towards their owners, but they can be stubborn and headstrong. They need a strong hand when it comes to training otherwise they can be domineering. This dog needs vigorous exercise on a daily basis, otherwise they get frustrated. They are good house dogs as long as they get daily mental and physical exercise. They have strong hunting instincts and are sometimes scrappy with other dogs.
Breed Characteristics
| Type: | Pure |
| Family: | Hunters |
| Function: | Companion |
| Origin: | Europe |
| Preferred Climate: | Any Climate |
| Group: | Terriers |
| Life Span: | 10-12 Years |
| Nicknames: | Waterside Terrier, Bingley Terrier, Airedale, King of Terriers |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
Airedale Terrier Build Information
The Airedale Terrier is among the larger terriers and has long legs and strong jaws, attributes of a perfect hunter. This breed has a distinctive feature thanks to their dense, wavy coat.
| Size: | Medium |
| Length (Male): | 22-27 in. |
| Length (Female): | 22-24 in. |
| Weight: | 41 – 65 lbs |
| Litter Size: | 5 – 10 Puppies |
| Tail Dock or Crop: | Docked |
Behaviour and Personality
The Airedale Terrier is a very energetic and lively dog breed. It is protective and makes a great watchdog. Airedale Terriers are very affectionate towards their owners, but they can be stubborn and headstrong. They need a strong hand when it comes to training otherwise they can be domineering. This dog needs vigorous exercise on a daily basis, otherwise they get frustrated. They are good house dogs as long as they get daily mental and physical exercise. They have strong hunting instincts and are sometimes scrappy with other dogs.
| Activity Level: | Active |
| Affection Level: | Very Affectionate |
| Aggressiveness Level: | High |
| Barking: | Moderate |
| Energy Level: | Active |
| Good to Other Pets: | Friendly |
| Guardian Skills: | Yes |
| Independant: | Moderate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Friendly |
Appearance
The Airedale terrier requires a moderate amount of grooming. While the Airedale does not grow a long coat, the fur it does grow needs to be clipped. A typical terrier cut strips the fur on the dog’s back, flanks and stomach close to the body. The fur on the legs and the bears are left a bit longer. Aside from professional grooming, you will want to give your terrier a bath at home. Bathe your dog as often as it gets dirty. If you use a pet-safe shampoo, you cannot over bathe your pet. Clean your terrier’s ears and clip its toenails once a month at a minimum.
| Colors: | Black & Tan |
| Shedding: | None |
| Grooming: | High Maintenance |
| Coat Type: | Wiry |
Airedale Terrier Common Health Conditions
In general, this breed of dog is a healthy one. Airedale’s are prone to eye problems, skin infections and hip dysplasia. Most breed aficionados recommend putting fish oil in your terrier’s food to keep its skin healthy. If you are going to purchase your terrier from a breeder, be sure that it is a reputable one. These breeders only mate healthy animals, and they take steps to ensure that their litters are sound. If you rescue an Airedale, be prepared for the fact that you will not know the health history of its line.
Airedale Terrier Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
Get a Free Pet Insurance Quote
Breed Talents and Facts
The breed needs plenty of vigorous exercise. The average lifespan of the breed is 11 years. Beards should be washed daily or after every meal. This breed is a good choice for people who suffer with allergies. The breed starts to mellow after about two years of age.
| Training: | Moderately easy to train |
| Hunting Companion: | Yes |
| Jolly for Jogging: | Yes |
| Sighting Capabilities: | No |
| Ideal for Tracking: | Yes |
| Retrieving Skills: | No |
| Pointing Breed: | No |
| Herding Skills: | No |
| Dutiful Watchdog: | Yes |
| Security Guard Capable: | Yes |
| Police Performer: | Yes |
| Wet Water rescues: | No |
| Assist Disable Owners: | No |
| Dog Sledding: | No |
| Able to Perform Dog Carting: | No |
| Agile/Zippy: | No |
| Fun with Lure Coursing: | No |
| Obedient: | Yes |
| Possible Schutzhund Work: | No |
| Trainable for Tricks: | No |
