The largest of all Terriers, the Airedale Terrier hails from Yorkshire, England and the first recorded breed classes took place at the Airedale Agricultural Society show in 1864. Also called the Waterside Terrier, this dog is a powerful swimmer. It is also referred to as the “King of Terriers” because it is 22 to 24 inches ( 55-61 cm) tall at the shoulders and weighs 44 to 50 pounds (20-23 Kg). The Airedale Terrier is a muscular, active dog, readily joining in children's games. It is outgoing and friendly and is a wonderful family dog, a companion for the country or the city. Its life expectancy is 13 years, although individual dogs have lived for shorter or longer periods.
The Airedale has small dark eyes and a keen expression. Combined with its quickness of movement, the Airedale always appears to be expecting something to happen. It is alert and fearless, but not aggressive. The Airedale tail is set high on the body and it is carried proudly erect when it has been docked (cut short shortly after birth). Because of current laws in some countries, the custom of docking dog's tails in now almost a thing of the past.
The Airedale Terrier has a hard, dense, wiry double coat which is waterproof. It sheds twice yearly and in between shedding periods, its coat needs occasional stripping to alleviate tangles and mattes. The body saddle, top of the neck and surface of the tail are black and the rest of the dog is tan. No other colour combinations are acceptable.
The Airedale Terrier, like all Terrier breeds, is a great vermin hunter, but today, it is mainly used as a great family dog, although it is occasionally used as a guard dog or police dog.
Its ears are “V” shaped, the forelegs are straight and thickly boned. It has small, round, compact feet with well cushioned pads and arched toes. Thighs are muscular and powerful and the stifles are well bent. Its beard covers very powerful jaws which operate in a scissor like manner.
The Airedale Terrier is believed to have originated from the crossing of an Old English Rough-Coated Black and Tan Terrier with an Otterhound. This dog has a tendency to be stubborn and also to get involved in street brawls with other dogs. It likes activity and daily walks should be provided.
If you are interested in an active, outgoing friendly dog, then you may want to consider and Airedale Terrier as a pet for your family.
Until next time,
Teia
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