Enter the ‘King of Terriers’. What has the Airedale Terrier done to earn this badge of honour? Should we start with its impressive combination of power and agility for a dog so small? Or its role as a clever little companion for the police forces? Or its unparalleled hunting instincts? Or its playful and protective nature that makes it a firm family favourite? There’s no shortage of accolades that cement this breed’s place at the top of the Terrier league. Let’s walk through the characteristics of the Airedale Terrier.

History

The Airedale Terrier is the biggest Terrier in the breed spectrum. Hailing from Yorkshire – the Valley of Aire, so the story goes – it was kept busy hunting the abundance of small game in that neck of the woods. Not a dog to let its diminutive size deter it from setting goals, this breed has also proved indispensable in the past for hunting big game in Africa, Canada and India.

Health

You can expect your Airedale Terrier to live on average 10 to 13 years.

Health conditions include bloat, colonic disease, eye problems, skin infections, hip dysplasia and thyroid issues.

Characteristics

The ‘small only in stature’

Airedale Terriers are playful to the point of boistrous and may not be suitable for having around small children. They’re smart, proud, and their hunting background and exceptional nose makes them ever so slightly wayward. A measured but firm approach to training with help you keep control of yours in public spaces. Regular and rigorous exercise – aim for an hour a day – will also help keep them cool, calm and collected. Beware aggression towards other dogs and socialise yours well.

Grooming

The thick, wiry coat of an Airedale sheds twice a year and will need tending to professionally to keep it looking spick and span. You should also aim to brush it three times a week – and arrange a trim once a month. Twice if you’re feeling generous.

Training

Airedale Terriers are easy to train as long as you practise a firm, calm and consistent manner.

Where to find an Airedale Terrier

Airedale Terrier Groups

Looking for fellow followers of the King of Terriers? Find an Airedale breed group below.
The South of England Airedale Terrier Club
National Airedale Terrier Association
West of England and South Wales Airedale Terrier Club
Midland Counties Airedale Terrier Club
Airedale Terrier Club of Scotland
Planet Airedale

Adopt an Airedale Terrier

Want to adopt an Airedale Terrier in need of a loving home? Find a rescue centre below.
Airedale Rescue
Terrier Rescue

Do you own an Airedale Terrier?

Source

If you own an Airedale Terrier let us know in the comments below and upload your picture to our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram tagging @DogBuddyCo.