Airedale Terrier

Originating from the British Isles, the Airedale Terrier is the largest of the Terrier family.

It gained popularity in the 1900s as it was first used for catching rats and otters. The breed is thought to have been developed by crossbreeding various terrier breeds, including the Otterhound, Bull Terrier, Tweed Water Spaniel, Bingley Terrier, and Black and Tan Terrier. 

1. Otterhound-Source : AKC
2. Bull terrier - Source: AKC
3. Airedale Terrier - Source : AKC

This mix of genes created a dog larger than most terriers of the time, with a shaggy coat that protected it from cold and hot weather.

The breed's name is derived from the river Aire that runs through the valley in the West Riding of Yorkshire. Here, Airedale was used as a working dog in catching varmints and hunting river rats. 

The breed was called the " Waterside Terrier" and became known as the "Airedale Terrier."

During World War I, Airedale served multiple purposes, such as messenger, carrier, and explosive detector. However, it was in Germany where this Britain-origin breed gained popularity for its functions during the war.

The Airedale Terrier Club of America (ATCA) is the oldest and largest national breed club for Airedale Terriers in the United States. The club traces its origins back to 1884 when a group of Airedale enthusiasts in New York City formed the "Airedale Terrier Club."

In those early days, the primary purpose of the club was to organize the showing of Airedales at dog shows.

The Airedale Terrier is a fascinating dog breed with a diverse range of personality traits that make them stand out. From their high intelligence to their athleticism and loyalty, Airedales have a unique set of characteristics that contribute to their charm.

• Intelligence and Trainability

The Airedale Terrier is celebrated for its exceptional intelligence, a trait that renders them highly trainable. These dogs exhibit prowess in various canine sports, excelling notably in agility, obedience, and flyball. 

Their quick learning abilities make them ideal candidates for obedience training and the mastery of tricks, with some Airedales even showcasing extraordinary talents such as skateboarding. Their obedient nature makes them easy to train, so you won’t have to employ extensive training methods.

• Athleticism and Energy

The Airedale Terrier stands out for its remarkable athleticism and high energy levels, demanding regular and engaging exercise to maintain their well-being. 

Proficient swimmers, these dogs revel in water-related activities, and their enthusiasm extends to playing fetch or chasing a ball. Notably, they are recognized for a distinctive "Brazilian jiu-jitsu" style of fighting, utilizing powerful jaws and agile body movements.

• Training tips to regulate their high-energy

Airedale Terriers are energetic and intelligent dogs that require proper training to channel their energy positively. Consistency is crucial in their training regimen, establishing a routine for teaching commands daily. Patience is also key, as behaviors take time to develop, requiring persistence and understanding.

To train them effectively, it's important to keep them happy and healthy through regular exercise, including walks, runs, and play sessions. Incorporate their instinctive "Brazilian jiu-jitsu" style of fighting into training. This can be achieved through controlled play sessions or agility training. Positively utilize their athleticism during these activities.

Here is a video of how to train your Airedale Terriers:

• Loyalty and Protective Instincts

Fiercely loyal and devoted, Airedale Terriers form strong bonds with their owners, becoming lifelong companions. Their natural suspicion of strangers manifests through vigilant barking when someone approaches their home. 

While their protective instincts make them excellent guard dogs, Airedales are not inherently aggressive. They reserve their aggressive behavior solely for situations where they perceive a genuine threat to their family.

The Airedale Terrier boasts a strong and tall build that sets it apart as the "King of Terriers." This breed exhibits a well-balanced, sturdy frame coupled with an alert and intelligent expression. Here are some key aspects of their physical features:

• Airedale Terrier Size

The Airedale Terrier is a medium-sized terrier breed from England. They are the largest terrier breed and can weigh between 40 to 65 pounds, while an Airedale puppy weighs around 12-20 pounds. The average Airedale Terrier height is 24 inches at the shoulder.

Airedales are well-muscled with a robust build, showcasing strength and endurance. Their chest is deep, providing ample lung capacity for sustained activity. The breed's physical attributes make them agile and capable of excelling in various activities, including agility competitions.

• Coat color

Airedale Terriers have a short, stiff outer coat that is dense and harsh to the touch. Common coat colors include black and tan, dark grizzle and tan, and black. 

They have a thick undercoat that protects them from cold weather and keeps them cool in hotter climates. 

• Head

The head of an Airedale Terrier is long and flat, giving an impression of strength and intelligence. Their eyes are small, dark, and expressive, reflecting the breed's alert and lively nature. Airedales also sport V-shaped ears that fold slightly to the side, adding to their endearing charm.

Airedale Terriers are exceptional in various roles: affectionate family companions, vigilant watchdogs, and skilled competitors in agility. Their adaptability and intelligence make them well-suited for a range of functions, bringing joy, loyalty, and a competitive edge to any setting.

If you're considering adopting an Airedale Terrier, you might be wondering whether you should get a male or a female. While both genders make great pets, there are some notable differences between them. 

Here's what you need to know about the gender differences of Airedale Terriers.

• Size

One of the most obvious differences between male and female Airedales is size. On average, males weigh about 10% more than females. This difference in size can be attributed to males having more testosterone, which leads to more muscle mass. 

Male Airedale weighs around 50-65 pounds while females weigh around 40-50 pounds on average. 

• Temperament

While all dogs have unique personalities, there are general trends regarding temperament and gender. Generally, female Airedales tend to be more loyal and affectionate than males. They're also typically less aggressive and more easygoing. 

Males, on the other hand, are often more independent and aloof. They're also usually more territorial and protective of their families. 

Of course, these are just generalizations - there are always exceptions to the rule!

• Health

Gender can also affect your dog's health. For example, sterilizing or neutering your pet will help reduce its risk of certain cancers. Males are also more likely to develop urinary stones and hip dysplasia than females. 

The portion and calories your Airedale Terrier should be consuming depends on the dog’s size, age, and present health conditions, if any. 

However, it's important to maintain a healthy and nutrient-dense diet. Usually, they are recommended 1.5 cups or 2.5 cups of their dry food. 

As these are active dogs, you must keep a check that they are having enough to eat. You can check by examining whether his ribs are protruding or not. 

Treats and sweets are a good way of keeping Airedale happy and essential for training, but keeping a balance is crucial. But be mindful not to overdo treats or overfeed in general can lead to obesity.

While Airedale Terriers are generally robust and healthy, like any breed, they may be susceptible to certain health conditions. Here are some health considerations for Airedales:

• Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to instability and potential arthritis. This condition can cause discomfort, lameness, and reduced mobility. While genetics play a role, factors like rapid growth and excessive weight can exacerbate the condition.
  
  Take preventive measures such as maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding rapid growth through a balanced diet and moderate exercise. Choose a breeder who screens for hip dysplasia in their stock.

• Hyperthyroidism: Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces an excessive amount of thyroid hormone. Airedales may be prone to this condition, which can result in weight loss, increased appetite, restlessness, and skin issues.Schedule regular vet check-ups to monitor thyroid function. Maintain a healthy weight and minimize exposure to potential thyroid-disrupting factors.

• Von Willebrand's Disease: Von Willebrand's Disease is a hereditary bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency or dysfunction of the von Willebrand factor, a clotting protein. Airedale Terriers may be susceptible to this condition, which can lead to prolonged bleeding after injuries or surgeries.
  
  Preventive measures to be aware of this disease is to avoid breeding from parents with a history of the disease. Conduct genetic testing before breeding to identify carriers. Be vigilant for signs of excessive bleeding and seek prompt veterinary care for injuries.

Brushing is one of the most important things you can do for your Airedale Terrier's grooming. Not only does it help remove dirt, debris, and knots, but it also helps distribute natural oils throughout the coat. This prevents matting and keeps the coat healthy and looking its best. 

Here are a few tips for brushing your Airedale Terrier:

• Start with a good quality bristle brush or comb. You may also want to invest in a slicker brush to help remove knots.
• Be sure to brush in the same direction of hair growth. Start from the head and work your way down the body. 
• Also, take care of directions when hand stripping their dead hair. Otherwise, the process can be painful for them. 
• Pay special attention to areas that tend to mat, such as behind the ears, under the arms, and on the legs. Use a detangler spray if necessary. 
• Brush your dog outside or in a well-ventilated area to avoid making a mess in your home. 

Since they have a thick, wiry coat, you should brush your dog once a week. However, daily brushing is even better if you have the time.

How much do Airedale Terriers shed?

Airedale Terriers are known for their low shedding, making them a good choice for individuals with allergies. While no dog is entirely hypoallergenic, the Airedale's coat, being a double coat, does shed minimally. 

Bathing an Airedale Terrier is not as difficult as it may seem. These dogs only need to be bathed about once every month or so unless they get dirty. Cleaning your Airedale Terrier's ears is an important part of taking care of them. Wax buildup can lead to infection, so it's important to clean their ears regularly using a cotton ball soaked in ear solution specifically designed for dogs.

Consider adoption through reputable Airedale Terrier rescue groups to provide a loving home for a dog in need.

Aire-Rescue.org

AiredaleRescueGroup.com

If you're thinking about welcoming an Airedale Terrier into your family, it's crucial to know the average cost. Typically, Airedale Terrier price ranges from $800 to $2000. Here are some trusted sources if you’re looking for an Airedale Terrier for sale:

Marketplace.AKC.org

Good Dog

• Famous people who have owned Airedale Terriers include Presidents Teddy Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson, author Ernest Hemingway, actor Charlie Chaplin, and musician Bob Dylan.
• Appeared in the Breed judging show 2023.
• During World War I, over 3,000 Airedale Terriers served with British forces as messenger dogs, Red Cross dogs, and ratters (dogs who kill rats). 
• One famous wartime Airedale was Sergeant Stubby, who served with the U.S. Army’s 102nd Infantry Regiment and was awarded several medals for his bravery during battle.

1. Sergeant Stubby - Source : Wikipedia
2. Airedales as war dogs -Source: BBC
3. Airedale as police dog -Source: DogwoodDales Airedale Terriers of Texas

• In WW2, they served in various roles: search and rescue, sentry duty, and guard duty. 
• The Airedale Terrier is one of only a handful of breeds successfully used as police dogs.