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Airedale Terrier

Airedale Terrier
History:

Country/Date of Origin: England/19th Century

The king of terriers was developed to hunt otter in Yorkshire, England. The breed resulted from the crossing between the now extinct English Black, the Tan Terrier and the Otter Hound. The Airedale has the best of its hound and terrier ancestors. A breed of many talents, Airedales have been and are still used as bird dogs, big game hunters and military and police dogs.

 Other Names Body Type Personality Coat Health Concerns

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Waterside Terrier, Bingley Terrier

AKC Group: Terrier

Breed Club: Airedale Terrier Club of America

Rescue Club: Airedale Terrier Club of America Rescue & Adoption

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Body Type:

  • Overall impression is of a large, robust, long legged terrier full of fire and spirit
  • Height: 22-24 inches (at shoulder)
  • Weight: 44-50 pounds
  • Whiskers and a goatee
  • Button ears are folded forward and carried to the side of the head; they are not altered
  • Docked tail is carried high but not curved over the back

Personality:

  • Legendary loyalty
  • Totally trustworthy with children
  • Eager to please and learns easily
  • Fiery temper shows when around other dogs

Coat:

  • Harsh double coat that can be either straight or wavy
  • Airedales are all tan with black or grizzled saddle
  • Wiry coat requires professional grooming; pets are trimmed with clippers, but show dogs are hand plucked
  • Waterproof coat inherited from Otter Hound ancestors

Health Concerns:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Skin allergies and hot spots
  • Gastro-enteritis
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Tasty Tidbits:
  • Largest of the terrier tribe
  • Loves to swim
  • Puppies born black
  • Beloved pet of three successive American presidents: Harding, Coolidge and Hoover.
  • Also fancied as hunting companion of Teddy Roosevelt