Airedale Terrier

ATTRIBUTES: Friendly, Courageous, Clever

GROUP: Terrier Group

ACIVITY LEVEL: Regular Exercise

BARKING LEVEL: Medium

COAT TYPE: Wiry

COAT LENGTH: Short, Medium

SHADDING: Occasional

SIZE: Large

TRAINABILITY: Eager To Please

CHARACTERISTIC: Best Family Dogs, Medium Dog Breeds

Breed Overview

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Ancestry

Otterhounds, Various Terrier Breeds

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Origin

England

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Registration

1988

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Size

21 - 23 Inches

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Weight

50 - 70 Pounds

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Expected Life

11 - 14 Years

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY +
Independent
Lovey-Dovey
LOVE WITH CHILDREN +
Unwise
Good With Children
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS +
Unwise
Good With Other Dogs
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT
No Shedding
Hair Everywhere
+
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS
Monthly
Daily
+
DROOLING INTENSITY
Less Likely to Drool
Always Have a Towel
+
COAT TYPE
+
COAT LENGTH
+
FRIENDLINESS
Reserved
Everyone Is My Best Friend
+
LIVELINESS
Only When You Want To Play
Non-Stop
+
VIGILANCE INTENSITY
What's Mine Is Yours
Vigilant
+
ADAPTATION CAPACITY
Lives For Routine
Highly Adaptable
+
OBEDIENCE LEVEL
Self-Willed
Eager to Please
+
STAMINA LEVEL
Couch Potato
High Energy
+
VOCALIZATION
Only To Alert
Very Vocal
+
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL
Loaf
Needs an Activity
+
COLORS
+
PATTERNS
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CARING WITH FAMILY
Independent
Lovey-Dovey
Affection levels within a breed towards family members or those well-acquainted can significantly differ. Some breeds exhibit a reserved nature showing affection almost exclusively to their owner whereas others adopt an approachable demeanor treating every known individual as if they were their closest friend.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN
Unwise
Good With Children
A breed's capacity for patience and tolerance towards children's antics as well as its general disposition towards family compatibility, varies significantly. It's crucial to always monitor interactions between dogs and young children or children of any age who haven't spent much time around dogs to ensure safety and positive experiences for both.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS
Unwise
Good With Other Dogs
A breed's innate disposition towards friendliness with other dogs varies. While direct supervision during meetings and introductions with other dogs is always recommended some breeds naturally exhibit a higher propensity for amicable relations with their canine counterparts both within the household and in communal settings.
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT
No Shedding
Hair Everywhere
The amount of fur and hair a breed is likely to shed varies significantly. Breeds known for their high shedding rates will demand more frequent grooming sessions, have a higher likelihood of triggering specific allergies and necessitate more regular house cleaning routines including vacuuming and lint rolling to manage the fur they leave behind.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS
Monthly
Daily
The necessity for grooming including bathing, brushing trimming or other forms of coat care differs widely across breeds. When considering the level of grooming effort required it’s important to evaluate your available time patience.
DROOLING INTENSITY
Less Likely to Drool
Always Have a Towel
The propensity for drooling varies among breeds. If you prioritize cleanliness and order in your living environment, selecting a dog known for producing copious amounts of saliva which can result in slobber streaks on your arms or large damp patches on your clothing might not align well with your lifestyle preferences.
COAT STYLES GUIDE
Wiry
COAT SPECTRUM
Short, Medium
FRIENDLINESS
Reserved
Everyone Is My Best Friend
A breed's inclination to be friendly towards strangers can differ significantly. Certain breeds exhibit reserved or cautious behavior towards all unfamiliar individuals regardless of the setting whereas others are consistently enthusiastic about the opportunity to meet new people showing a warm and welcoming demeanor anytime someone new is present.
LIVELINESS
Only When You Want To Play
Non-Stop
The level of enthusiasm for play that a breed maintains even beyond puppyhood varies widely. Some breeds sustain their desire for engaging activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their mature years showcasing a persistent playful spirit. On the other hand, others may prefer a more laid-back lifestyle content with spending most of their time relaxing on the couch alongside you.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY
What's Mine Is Yours
Vigilant
A breed's predisposition to alert you to the presence of strangers varies. Such breeds are more inclined to respond to any perceived threat be it the mailman or a squirrel darting past the window. However these same breeds often have the capacity to warm up to strangers once they enter the home and are acknowledged and accepted by their family members demonstrating their adaptability and protective instincts.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY
Lives For Routine
Highly Adaptable
The simplicity with which a breed manages adjustments including transitions in residence auditory environments meteorological conditions routine schedules and various day-to-day shifts.
OBEDIENCE LEVEL
Self-Willed
Eager to Please
The simplicity of training your dog and their openness to learning new skills can significantly vary. Certain breeds are naturally inclined to please their owners and eagerly adopt new commands while others exhibit a more independent streak preferring to follow their own whims and desires regardless of the time or place.
STAMINA LEVEL
Couch Potato
High Energy
The level of physical activity and mental engagement required by a dog breed can differ significantly. Breeds with high energy levels are constantly on the move, always keen for their next exciting activity. They dedicate their days to sprinting, leaping and engaging in playful antics. On the other hand breeds with lower energy demands resemble homebodies content to lounge and drift into sleep.
VOCALIZATION
Only To Alert
Very Vocal
Medium
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL
Happy to Lounge
Needs a Job or Activity
The requirement for mental stimulation to keep a breed content and healthy significantly varies. Dogs bred for specific purposes often need tasks that engage their decision-making problem-solving and concentration skills. If these intellectual exercises are lacking such dogs are likely to invent their own forms of entertainment to stimulate their minds. Unfortunately the "projects" they choose might not align with what their owners would prefer underscoring the importance of providing appropriate mental challenges to keep them engaged in a positive manner.
COLORS

Description

Registration Code

Black & Tan

018

Grizzle & Tan

110

PATTERNS

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About The Breed

Renowned for their substantial size, notable strength, and indefatigable spirit, Airedale Terriers have rightfully garnered the moniker 'The King of Terriers.' Occupying a prestigious position among the globe's most adaptable dog breeds, the Airedale Terrier has proven its mettle as a hunter, athlete and faithful companion.

As the largest breed within the terrier category male Airedales reach approximately 23 inches at the shoulder with females standing slightly shorter. Their coat is dense and wiry and is predominantly tan punctuated with black markings. The breed's long muscular limbs contribute to a dignified posture while their elongated heads adorned with characteristic beards and mustaches, dark eyes and neatly folded ears exude sharp wit. The very embodiment of an attentive and eager terrier though in a larger frame Airedales possess the bold resolute and sometimes headstrong nature typical of terriers. They exhibit a gentle and patient demeanor with children while standing firm in the defense of their family and home. Airedales thrive on their can-do approach shining in a vast array of sports and recreational family pursuits.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Airedale Terrier: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

Health

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Airedales typically enjoy robust health and conscientious breeders prioritize screening for health issues like hip dysplasia, a condition characterized by an improperly formed hip joint. It's important for an Airedale's ears to be routinely inspected and cleaned to eliminate any foreign substances and prevent excessive wax accumulation. Moreover, maintaining a regular dental care routine including frequent teeth brushing is crucial for their overall well-being.

Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association:

  • Hip Evaluation

  • Kidney Disease Screening (CHIC)

  • Cardiac Exam

  • Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Health

Grooming

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The Airedale boasts a short wiry coat that demands minimal upkeep making it relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming. Engaging in weekly brushing sessions not only maintains the coat's appearance but also serves the dual purpose of removing dead hair thereby reducing the amount of fur shed around the home. Such routine grooming has been beneficial for individuals with dog allergies as they discover that cohabitating with a well-groomed Airedale doesn't exacerbate their symptoms. During these weekly grooming sessions any detected mats should be gently separated with fingers before being carefully untangled with a comb. Comprehensive grooming—which includes bathing, brushing, and either stripping or clipping the coat—should be undertaken three to four times per year. This level of grooming can be managed by the dog owner or entrusted to a professional groomer depending on preference and expertise.
Health

Exercise

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Terriers are widely recognized for their vivacious energy levels and the Airedale Terrier being the largest among them possesses an abundance of this spirited vitality. It's crucial to direct this energy into safe and positive activities. Airedales are notably fond of engaging in playtime with their family members making them excellent companions for shared activities. To sufficiently meet an Airedale's exercise needs, a daily play session of moderate duration coupled with several walks or opportunities to roam in a secure backyard throughout the day is recommended. Such routines help channel their energy constructively. While Airedales are known for playing nicely with children it's important to monitor interactions with very young children such as toddlers closely. Given their sizable yet robust build coupled with their exuberant nature Airedales can unintentionally cause accidents. Hence supervision ensures that playtime remains safe and enjoyable for both the children and the dog.
Health

Training

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Given the Airedale Terrier's notable size he stands as a medium-sized canine but towers over other terrier breeds along with his robustness and lively temperament embarking on obedience training comes highly recommended. At the very least an Airedale should be versed in fundamental obedience commands including "come" ,"sit", and "stay." The breed's keen intelligence paired with its propensity to form strong bonds with family members generally facilitates a smooth training process. It's essential for owners and trainers to remember that with a high level of intelligence comes a susceptibility to boredom. Hence training sessions that incorporate variety and novelty will likely yield better outcomes compared to those that are monotonous and repetitive. Moreover an Airedale left to its own devices for extended periods can resort to undesirable behaviors out of boredom. Providing engaging and challenging toys can be a great strategy to keep an Airedale entertained and mentally stimulated during those times when direct interaction isn't possible thereby encouraging positive behavior patterns.
Health

Nutrition

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The Airedale Terrier will thrive on a diet of high-quality dog food whether it's commercially produced or prepared at home under the guidance and endorsement of your veterinarian. It's important that the chosen diet is suited to the dog's specific stage of life, whether they are a puppy, an adult, or a senior. Given that some dogs may have a tendency to gain excess weight monitoring your Airedale’s calorie intake and weight is crucial.Utilizing treats effectively during training can be immensely beneficial; however it's essential to moderate the quantity of treats to avoid the risk of obesity. Being informed about which human foods are safe for dogs and which should be avoided is important for safeguarding their health. If you have any Doubts about your dog's dietary needs or their weight management consulting with your veterinarian is advisable.Ensuring that your Airedale has continuous access to clean fresh water is a fundamental aspect of their care helping to maintain their overall health and well-being.

Historiography

Before the advent of the 20th century the Aire Valley, nestled in the north of England and not far from the Scottish border, emerged as one of Britain's pivotal manufacturing heartlands. Amidst the fervor of the Industrial Revolution in the mid-1800s the resilient and intrepid Airedale Terriers were conceived by the valley's factory workers and mill hands mirroring their own sturdy and audacious spirits. It presents an intriguing contrast that the esteemed 'King of Terriers' was not a product of noble breeders but rather the innovation of the working class.

Airedales were designed to be formidable and dauntless in the pursuit of ducks and rats and it's widely speculated that they occasionally engaged in poaching as well. Emblematic of a breed hailing from an industrious community the Airedale's creation was a deliberate act combining several breeds to achieve the desired traits. Notably the Otterhound and now-vanished breeds like the English Black and Tan Terrier were instrumental in the Airedale's lineage. Careful observation also reveals influences from the Irish terrier and Bedlington terrier and it's plausible that setter’s retrievers and herding dogs contributed to the breed's development as well.

Airedales distinguished themselves in the British Armed Forces during World War I performing with honor as messenger’s sentries and guard dogs. Across the Atlantic in North America the breed earned acclaim as a versatile hunting dog proficient in tracking waterfowl upland gamebirds and terrestrial game. This multifaceted capability aligns with what many Airedale owners know firsthand about the breed's legendary versatility. With roles ranging from ratter and duck hunter to big-game tracker herder protector soldier entertainer athlete police K-9 and even caretaker the Airedale Terrier has demonstrated time and again why it rightfully claims the title of the 'King of Terriers.

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