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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier is the tallest member of the terriers with a harsh wiry coat,
long flat head, and a deep chest. Airedale's are well-balanced dogs standing square,
with straight front legs, and a level topline. The ears fold somewhat to the side
and forward. The teeth should meet in a level or scissor-like bite. They have a
double waterproof double coat with coarse hair, which needs to be stripped occasionally.
The coat, including legs, chest, undersides, head and ears should be tan. Black
markings should be in a saddle-like design on the Airedales' coat. A bit of red
in the black and/or a small white star on the chest are permitted when showing the
dog.
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Temperament
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The Airedale Terrier has a sweet disposition with a certain dignified aloofness.
They make exceptional playmates for children who are old enough for their high-spirited
play. This breed needs to feel loved and respected and they in return are intelligent,
courageous, loyal and protective. Airedales will be happy to please you if there
is nothing else pressing in the environment such as a chipmunk, another dog or food.
Airedales are naturally lively and can be very rowdy until properly trained.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 22-24" ; Weight: 50-65 lbs.
Female Height: 22-23" ; Weight: 40-45 lbs.
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Health Problems
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The Airedale is a very hardy breed, though some may suffer with eye problems, hip
dysphasia and skin infections. If your Airedale tends to have dry skin, he should
be fed an adjusted omega-6/omega-3 fatty acid ratio in the diet.
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Living Conditions
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Apartment living is not recommended for the Airedale Terrier. They are very active
indoors and do much better with a medium to large yard.
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Exercise
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Airedales were bred for active work and need plenty of exercise. They love to swim,
play ball or fetch. Once trained, they enjoy running alongside a bicycle. Without
enough attention and exercise, Airedales can become bored and get into a little
mischief.
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Life Expectancy
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About 10-12 years
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Grooming
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The Airedale Terrier's coat requires consistent regular grooming. Excessive hair
should be trimmed between the pads of the feet when necessary. If you keep the coat
stripped, you will see little or no shedding. Burrs can stick in the coat and beard
and the beard should be washed daily due to food residue.
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Origin
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The Airedale Terrier, also known as the "King of Terriers", is a descendant of the
now extinct Black and Tan or Broken-haired Terrier. The Black and Tan Terriers were
used as vermin hunters in the Airedale and Wharfedale areas of England. Unfortunately
they lacked the nose and swimming ability of the Otterhound used in the same area.
Strains of terrier and hound were crossed which formed the Airedale Terrier. In
the 1860s, the crossing of the Irish Terrier and possibly the Welsh Terrier, led
to standardization of size and type. Airedale Terriers were used chiefly as small
game hunters and occasionally used to hunt big game in Africa, India and Canada.
They have also been used as police dogs and army sentry dogs during World War II.
These days, the Airedale Terrier is primarily a companion dog. The Airedale is recognized
by the AKC and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC and UKC Terrier
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