Airedale Terrier Dog Breed: Information, Characteristics, Pictures & Facts
| Height | Weight (Female) | Weight (Male) | Lifespan | Colors | Suitable for | Temperament | Hypoallergenic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22-23 inches | 40- 55 pounds | 40 – 75 pounds | 10 – 12 years | black and tan | Families, playing, active, protection | Funny, protective, loving | Yes |
The King of Terriers
The Airedale Terrier is a breed of dog that originated in the Aire Valley of Yorkshire, England.
Developed in the 19th century by crossbreeding various terrier breeds such as the Otterhound and the Old English Black and Tan Terrier, they were originally bred for hunting small game and vermin.
However, their versatility soon made them indispensable farm dogs capable of herding cattle and even pulling carts.
Today, Airedale Terriers are known as “The King of Terriers” due to their size, intelligence, and fearlessness. They are a popular breed for both family pets and working dogs due to their lively personality and loyalty.
History of the Airedale Terrier Breed
The Airedale Terrier was first recognized as a distinct breed by the Kennel Club in 1886. Their popularity soared during World War I when they were used by British soldiers as messenger dogs due to their intelligence and bravery. In addition to their role in wartime, Airedale Terriers have also served as police dogs, rescue dogs, guide dogs for the blind, and even actors in Hollywood films such as “Benji”.
Despite facing extinction during World War II when many breeding programs were disrupted or abandoned due to rationing measures implemented by the British government at that time, dedicated breeders ensured that this beloved breed survived. Today’s modern non-pedigree or mixed-breed “Aussie” or “Ozzy”, could be considered descendants of early broken-haired or rough-coated ‘working’ terriers from England that were used for hunting vermin (rats), otters on riverside properties where fishing was done commercially with nets (thus requiring vermin control), livestock protection and as stockmen’s dogs that would accompany them on stock runs, and be wary of strangers and other livestock.
Why they are a popular breed
Airedale Terriers are highly intelligent, energetic, and protective dogs that make great family pets. They are adaptable to various living situations such as apartments or large homes with yards.
Due to their history as working dogs, Airedales need plenty of exercise and stimulation to keep them happy. They also require regular grooming due to their thick coat.
Their loyalty is second to none; they will form a strong bond with their owners and fiercely protect them when necessary. Their intelligence also makes them easy to train for obedience, agility, or even advanced tricks.
Overall, the Airedale Terrier is a well-rounded dog that has both brains and brawn. It’s no wonder they continue to be a popular breed among dog lovers worldwide.
Pictures
Appearance and Characteristics
| Breed Characteristics | |
|---|---|
| Temperament | |
| Affectionate with Family | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ |
| Good with Children | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ |
| Sociability with Dogs | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ |
| Friendliness towards Strangers | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ |
Airedale Terrier’s Size
Airedale Terriers are a medium-sized breed that typically weigh between 50 to 70 pounds. The male Airedale Terriers are usually larger than the females, with an average height of 23 inches compared to the female’s height of 22 inches.
They have robust, muscular bodies and square-shaped heads with floppy ears that hang close to their head.
Airedale Terrier’s Coat and Color
The coat of an Airedale Terrier is one of its coolest features. It is thick, wiry, and water-resistant with a soft undercoat that keeps them warm during cold weather.
Their coat color is typically black or dark brown with tan markings on their legs, chest, and face. One unique feature of the Airedale Terrier’s coat is that they do not shed much at all.
This makes them a great choice for people who have allergies or who prefer not to clean up dog hair constantly. However, they do require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and looking good.
Airedale Terrier’s Personality Traits and Temperament
The Airedale Terrier is known for being intelligent, energetic, and independent. They are highly adaptable dogs that can thrive in different environments as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. Airedales enjoy challenges like puzzle toys or learning new tricks which can help keep them engaged mentally.
They also love physical activity like running or swimming but should be monitored closely since they tend to be strong swimmers. Despite their high energy levels, Airedales can also be calm dogs when well-exercised.
Airedales can be trained to perform a variety of tasks, including obedience, agility, and tracking.
They are also excellent hunting companions and have been used to hunt game such as deer, boar, and pheasant.
However, their high prey drive means they may not be suitable for households with smaller pets.
Due to their high energy needs, the Airedale Terrier requires a lot of activity to prevent things like digging and tearing the house apart.
Leaving them alone for long periods of time can also lead to destructive behavior (chewing furniture, etc.)
The Airedale Terrier responds well to positive reinforcement methods and is best motivated by treats. It is important to keep training sessions fresh and interesting to prevent the breed from getting bored with repetitive exercises.
They are also known for being fiercely loyal to their family members but may require socialization early in life so they get used to meeting new people without becoming overly protective. Overall, Airedale Terriers make excellent companions for those who are active and enjoy spending time with a loyal and intelligent dog.
Highlights Of The Breed
- Airedale Terriers, like all Terriers, have a natural instinct for digging, chasing small animals, and barking. They are also known to collect human memorabilia, including socks, underwear, and children’s toys.
- As a high-energy working dog, the Airedale Terrier requires daily exercise to remain healthy and energetic. They are not well-suited for apartment living and require a home with a large, fenced yard.
- Chewing is another favored pastime of the Airedale Terrier, and owners should provide sturdy toys and a secure crate or kennel when leaving them alone at home.
Children & Living
Airedale Terriers, like all Terriers, have a natural instinct for digging, chasing small animals, and barking. They are also known to collect human memorabilia, including socks, underwear, and children’s toys.
As a high-energy working dog, the Airedale Terrier requires daily exercise to remain healthy and energetic. They are not well-suited for apartment living and require a home with a large, fenced yard.
Chewing is another favored pastime of the Airedale Terrier, and owners should provide sturdy toys and a secure crate or kennel when leaving them alone at home.
Temperament Traits
| Breed Characteristics (Higher = More Suited) | |
|---|---|
| Flexibility | |
| Apartment Living | ⭐️☆☆☆☆ |
| Good For New Owners | ⭐️⭐️☆☆☆ |
| Are They Sensitivite? | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ |
| Good With Being Alone | ⭐️⭐️☆☆☆ |
| Prefers Cold / Winter Dog | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ |
| Prefers Warm / Summer Dog | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ |
Health and Care
| Health and Grooming Needs (Lower The Starts = The Less) | Rating |
|---|---|
| Shedding | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ |
| Drooling | ⭐️☆☆☆☆ |
| Grooming Difficulty | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ |
| General Health (higher = better) | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ |
| Weight Management (Potential for weight gain) | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ |
| Size | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ |
As with any breed of dog, Airedale Terriers can face a number of common health issues throughout their lives. However, with proper care and attention, many of these issues can be prevented or managed effectively. Here are some of the most common health concerns faced by Airedales:
Common Health Issues
Airedale Terriers are generally a very healthy breed, but they may be prone to certain genetic health problems that can affect their quality of life. Some common issues that owners should look out for include hip dysplasia, which can lead to arthritis and mobility problems; skin allergies or infections; bladder stones; and eye problems such as cataracts or glaucoma.
To help prevent these issues from arising, it’s important to keep up with regular veterinary check-ups and to maintain good overall hygiene habits for your dog. This includes keeping them clean and groomed regularly, as well as providing them with a healthy diet that meets their individual needs.
- Hip Dysplasia: a genetic issue where the thigh bone does not fit properly into the hip joint. Some dogs experience pain and limping in one or both of their hind legs, while others may not display any visible signs of discomfort. Arthritis may develop as the dog gets older, so it’s essential to diagnose the issue through X-ray screening. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. If you plan to purchase a puppy, ask the breeder for evidence that the parents have been tested for hip dysplasia and are clear of any problems.
- Hypothyroidism: is a thyroid gland disorder that can cause various conditions such as hair loss, obesity, epilepsy, lethargy, hyperpigmentation, pyoderma, and skin conditions. Treatment options include medication and dietary changes.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): Refers to a group of eye diseases that cause a gradual deterioration of the retina. Dogs affected by PRA experience night-blindness in the early stages of the disease and eventually lose their sight during the day as it progresses. Many dogs with PRA can adapt to their limited or lost vision if their environment remains the same.
- Umbilical Hernia: is a condition that can be present at birth, where abdominal fat or internal organs protrude against the abdominal wall near the umbilicus. Small hernias can be left untreated, as some of them close on their own by the time the puppy is 6 months old, and some dogs can live with small hernias their entire lives without issues. Large hernias, however, require surgery, which is often done during the dog’s spay or neuter procedure. Surgery is necessary to prevent a more serious condition in which an intestinal loop drops into the hernia and causes life-threatening strangulation.
- Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis: is a rapid-onset disorder that causes vomiting and diarrhea with fresh or digested blood, and its cause is unknown. Because other diseases have similar symptoms, it’s diagnosed through a process of elimination. Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis requires immediate medical attention, and while it usually resolves in a few days, intravenous fluids are required to keep the dog hydrated. Failure to rehydrate may lead to disseminated intravascular coagulation, which can be fatal. Antibiotics and anti-ulcer medications are also used to treat the disorder.
- Cancer: is also unfortunately common in dogs. The type of cancer and its treatment success vary for each case. Some cancers require surgical tumor removal, while others are treated with chemotherapy or a combination of surgical and medical approaches.
Tips for Maintaining Their Health
One key tip for maintaining your Airedale Terrier’s health is to ensure they get plenty of exercise on a daily basis. This breed is highly active and energetic by nature, so they need lots of opportunities to run around and burn off excess energy. Regular walks or runs in the park are great ways to keep your dog fit and healthy.
In addition to exercise, it’s also important to pay attention to your dog’s dietary needs. Feeding them high-quality food that is rich in nutrients can help keep their immune system strong and minimize the risk of developing certain health problems over time.
Grooming Needs
Airedale Terriers have a unique coat that requires regular grooming in order to stay healthy and look its best. Brushing should be done at least once per week, although a daily brushing is even better. This will help remove any loose hair or debris and prevent matting or tangles from forming in the fur.
Bathing is also important, but it should not be done too frequently as it can strip the coat of its natural oils. Aim to bathe your Airedale Terrier no more than once every few months, unless they get particularly dirty or smelly.
Regular dental care is another key component of maintaining your dog’s overall health and well-being. Brushing their teeth regularly can help prevent issues like gum disease and tooth decay from developing over time.
Feeding
Feeding Recommendations: It is recommended to provide your Airedale with 2 to 3.5 cups of high-quality dry food divided into two meals per day.
It is important to keep in mind that the amount of food an adult dog needs varies based on factors such as size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level.
Each dog is unique and may require different amounts of food. For instance, an active dog may require more food than a sedentary dog. Additionally, the quality of food you choose for your dog also matters as better quality dog food provides more nourishment and requires less food.
To maintain your Airedale’s good health, it is recommended to measure their food and feed them twice a day instead of leaving food out all day.
If you are unsure if your Airedale is overweight, perform an eye and hands-on test. First, observe their waistline, it should be visible. Next, place your hands on their back with fingers spread downward and thumbs along the spine. You should be able to feel their ribs without pressing hard.
For more information on feeding your Airedale, consult our guidelines on selecting the right food, feeding your puppy, and feeding your adult dog.
Training and Exercise
| Trainability | Rating |
|---|---|
| Ease To Train | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Smart | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Potential For Mouthiness | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ |
| Prey Motivation & Frequency | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Loudness – Barking / Howling (higher = louder) | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ |
| Physical Needs | Energy Level | Intensity | Exercise Needs | Potential for Playfulness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | High | At Least 1 Hour / Day | Very High |
Best Training Methods for Airedale Terriers
Airedale Terriers are intelligent and easily trainable dogs. However, they can also be stubborn at times. Therefore, consistent training is necessary to teach them obedience and good behavior.
The best training method for Airedales is positive reinforcement training. Rewarding them with treats and praise when they follow commands correctly will encourage them to continue behaving well.
It’s also important to start training your Airedale early on, as their stubbornness can sometimes make it harder to train them as adults. Consistency in your approach is key, along with patience and a positive attitude.
Socialization is another important aspect of training for Airedale Terriers. They should be introduced to people, other dogs, and different environments from a young age so that they can learn how to interact appropriately in different situations.
Recommended Exercise Routines to Keep Them Healthy
Airedales are an energetic breed that require daily exercise to keep them healthy both physically and mentally. They enjoy running around in open spaces, playing fetch, going for walks or hikes with their owners or even swimming! As a general rule of thumb, they should have at least 30 minutes of exercise per day but may require more depending on their age and energy levels.
It’s essential not to over-exercise puppies or elderly dogs as this can lead to health problems. If you’re short on time during the day, you could incorporate exercise into everyday activities such as playing hide-and-seek games or taking the stairs instead of elevators when out walking.
In addition to physical activity, mental stimulation is crucial for Airedales’ well-being. Puzzle toys or interactive games that challenge their brains can keep them entertained while providing mental stimulation.
Remember that regular exercise not only keeps your Airedale healthy but also helps prevent unwanted behavior issues that can arise from pent-up energy. Providing an active and stimulating lifestyle is key to keeping your Airedale Terrier happy and healthy.
Fun Facts
Intelligence and Versatility
One of the most impressive characteristics of Airedale Terriers is their intelligence. They are often considered to be one of the smartest dog breeds, thanks to their natural problem-solving abilities and their willingness to learn. In fact, many Airedales have excelled in a wide variety of activities and sports, including obedience trials, agility competitions, hunting events, and even search and rescue missions.
Lifespan and Size
Airedale Terriers are a relatively long-lived breed compared to other large dogs. On average, they live between 10-12 years, although some well-cared-for individuals have been known to live well into their teens. Despite being quite muscular and athletic in appearance, Airedales are actually considered a medium-sized breed according to the American Kennel Club (AKC), with males typically weighing around 50-70 pounds and females weighing 40-55 pounds.
History as a Working Dog
The Airedale Terrier was originally bred in England in the mid-19th century as an all-purpose hunting dog that could chase prey on both land and water. They were prized for their tenacity and loyalty, as well as their ability to swim long distances in cold water without tiring. Later on, during World War I, Airedales were also used by the military as messenger dogs due to their intelligence and courage under fire.
Airedale Terrier In World War I
In World War I, an Airedale Terrier named Jack demonstrated immense bravery by delivering a crucial message to British headquarters amidst the dangerous battlefields.
Despite suffering from a shattered leg and broken jaw, Jack continued on and completed his mission, ultimately saving his battalion.
Although he passed away soon after, he was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross for “Gallantry in the Field.” Even today, Airedales exhibit the same courage and bravery as Jack.
Airedale Terrier In World War II
During World War II, Airedales served as messenger dogs and were recognized as war heroes for their valuable contributions. As their duties progressed, they were trained to locate injured soldiers and signal for assistance.
Airedales were employed by the British Army and the British Red Cross to carry out various tasks during wartime, including sentry work, message delivery, and transporting first aid supplies and carrier pigeons on their backs.
These amazing dogs were also trained to locate wounded soldiers on battlefields. The training of these Airedales commenced in Angus, Scotland.
Unique Characteristics of the Breed
“King of Terriers”
One of the most distinctive features of Airedale Terriers is their regal bearing – they truly look like royalty among terrier breeds! This earned them the nickname “King of Terriers” at dog shows throughout history. With sharp eyes that sparkle with intelligence under prominent eyebrows, a confident stance, and an alert expression, the Airedale exudes self-assurance and strength.
Non-Shedding Coat
Another unique trait of the Airedale Terrier is their coat – it does not shed like that of most other breeds. Instead, their fur grows continuously throughout the year, like human hair. This means they require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and tangle-free, but it also makes them a good choice for people with allergies who still want to own a dog.
Conclusion
Recapping The Airedale Terrier Dog Breed
The Airedale Terrier is a unique breed that has captured the hearts of many dog lovers. Originally bred as a working dogs in England, these dogs are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and feisty personalities.
With their distinctive look and energetic nature, Airedale Terriers are often regarded as the “King of Terriers”. As mentioned earlier in this article, Airedales have a dense wiry coat that requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best.
Their exercise needs are moderate but daily walks or runs will suffice. Early training and socialization is essential to ensure they develop into well-behaved pets.
Why They Make Great Pets
Airedale Terriers make fantastic pets for several reasons. Firstly, they have loyal and loving personalities which makes them great companions for families with children as well as individuals living alone. They love to play and get plenty of exercise making them ideal for active households.
Secondly, their intelligence means they can be trained to do many things easily; from basic commands like sit and stay to more advanced training such as agility or obedience competitions.
Airedale Terriers are not only charming but also highly protective making them excellent watchdogs who will keep your home safe from intruders while at the same time being affectionate with family members.
Overall these dogs make great pets due to their unique combination of qualities which include high energy levels combined with loyalty and affection towards their owners.
If you’re looking for a new furry friend that’s both entertaining and devoted then an Airedale Terrier may be just what you’re looking for!
