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Airedale Terrier: The King of Terriers

Airedale Terrier on top of a rocky hill looking at camera

The Airedale Terrier, often referred to as the "King of Terriers," is a breed that combines intelligence, tenacity, and a charming personality. With a rich history and a unique blend of traits, the Airedale has captured the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into every aspect of the Airedale Terrier, from its intriguing history to its temperament, care needs, and much more.

Breed History

A Journey Through Time

The Airedale Terrier's history is a fascinating journey that traces its roots to the Aire Valley in Yorkshire, England. This breed is the result of crossbreeding between the Otterhound and various terrier breeds in the early 19th century. The goal was to create a versatile hunting dog that could excel in water and on land.
The Airedale Terrier was initially known as the "Waterside Terrier" or "Bingley Terrier" due to its origins in the Aire Valley and the town of Bingley. It wasn't until 1878 that the breed was officially named the Airedale Terrier.

Versatile Working Dog

Airedales were originally bred for hunting otters and rats along the Aire River. They quickly gained a reputation for their versatility and fearlessness, which led to their adoption for various roles, including as police and military dogs during World War I.

Breed Group

The Airedale Terrier belongs to the Terrier Group, which comprises breeds known for their determination, courage, and hunting instincts. Airedales exemplify these traits with their tenacity and versatility.

Size

Airedale Terriers are considered a medium to large breed. Adult males typically stand around 22 to 24 inches (56 to 61 cm) at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller, ranging from 21 to 23 inches (53 to 58 cm). Their sturdy build and athletic physique make them a well-balanced breed.
Coat Colour and Appearance

Distinctive Appearance

Airedale Terriers are known for their distinctive appearance, characterized by a dense, wiry coat that comes in various shades of tan and a black saddle-like patch on their back. Their coat is often described as "broken," which means it is neither silky nor smooth but rather has a coarse texture.

Also Known As

The Airedale Terrier, commonly known as "Airedale," is also referred to as the Bingley Terrier and Waterside Terrier

A Unique Look

Airedales have a distinctive head with a long, flat skull and a pronounced top. Their dark, expressive eyes are set well apart, and their ears are small and V-shaped, folding over close to the head. Their straight, strong legs and a well-carried tail complete their look of confidence and strength.

What Are Airedale Dogs Known For?

Airedale Terriers are known for their versatile abilities. They excel in various roles, including:

Hunting: Historically, Airedales were prized for their hunting prowess, particularly in pursuing otters and rats. Their sharp instincts and fearlessness made them excellent hunting companions. 
Guardianship: Airedales are known for their protective nature and often serve as loyal guardians of their families and homes. 
Search and Rescue: Their intelligence and agility have led them to excel in search and rescue missions, especially in challenging terrains. 
Police and Military Work: Airedales have been used as police and military dogs due to their courage and obedience.

How Much Walking Does an Airedale Need?

Airedale Terriers are an active breed and require regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. On average, they need about 1 to 2 hours of exercise per day. This can include brisk walks, playtime in a secure yard, and mentally stimulating activities.

Why Do People Love Airedales?

People love Airedales for several reasons:

Loyalty: Airedales are fiercely loyal to their families and form strong bonds with their owners. 
Intelligence: They are highly intelligent and can excel in various activities and training. 
Versatility: Airedales are known for their versatility, excelling in hunting, guarding, search and rescue, and more. 
Charming Personality: They have a charming and playful personality that endears them to their families.

Why Do Airedales Shake?

Airedales, like many dogs, may shake or shiver for various reasons:

Cold: If they are cold, they may shake to generate warmth. 
Nervousness or Anxiety: Dogs may shake when they are anxious or nervous. 
Excitement: Airedales may shake when they are excited or anticipating something fun. 
Health Issues: In some cases, shaking can be a sign of underlying health issues, so it's essential to monitor your Airedale's behavior and consult a vet if you have concerns.

What Dog Is Airedale and Similar To?

Airedale Terriers share some characteristics with other terrier breeds due to their shared ancestry. Some terrier breeds that have similarities to the Airedale include the Welsh Terrier, the Scottish Terrier, and the Fox Terrier. However, each terrier breed has its distinct traits and characteristics.

What Does an Airedoodle Look Like?

An Airedoodle is a cross-breed between an Airedale Terrier and a Poodle. The appearance of an Airedoodle can vary depending on which parent breed's traits dominate. Generally, Airedoodles may have a wavy or curly coat like Poodles and often inherit the Airedale's distinctive facial features. The coat color can vary, but it typically combines shades common to both parent breeds, such as black, tan, and white.

What Breed of Dog Looks Like a Small Airedale?

The Welsh Terrier is a breed that resembles a small Airedale Terrier. Both breeds share a similar wiry coat, head shape, and facial expression. However, Welsh Terriers are smaller in size compared to Airedales, making them a more compact but equally charming option for terrier enthusiasts.

Continue reading our Airedale Terrier in-depth articles

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