The Airedale Terrier is the largest of the terrier breeds. The ‘King of Terriers’, as it is known, stands up to 24 inches and the shoulder, and can weigh up to 65 pounds.

The Airedale is an easy dog to recognize, as the breed has a pretty unique profile and a wiry coat that is always black and tan. These dogs display the typical ‘terrier temperament’, which is to say that they are alert, active and ready to face up to any challenge.

Like many terrier breeds, the Airedale Terrier originated in England, in an area of between the Aire and Whafe rivers. The early dogs were crosses between Welsh terriers and Otterhounds, and went under a number of names, including, the Rough Coated terrier, Bingly terrier and Waterside terrier.

As the standard became more defined the breed was recognized by the UK Kennel club (in 1886), and became know as the Airedale Terrier.

By this time the breed’s reputation for reliability and hard work had also been noticed. Originally used for hunting and for the ‘sport’ of ratting, they began now to be used as police dogs, and as messengers during World War 1.

These dogs are independent thinkers with a high level of intelligence. They can be easy to train but are known to be stubborn at times, and to lose focus when they become bored. You should therefore keep your training sessions short, and focused.

Despite their strong work ethic they are fun-loving dogs with a definite sense of humor. This makes them great pets for a family with the time and energy to keep them busy.

Airedales are robust dogs with a lifespan of about 12 years. They do however suffer from some common health problems, including, hip dysplasia, skin problems and eye problems. Hot spots are a common condition with this breed, while bloat may occur if you exercise the dog too soon after a meal.

The rough wiry coat of the Airedale requires a daily brush down to keep it in good condition. The coat will also have to be professionally hand stripped a couple of times a year.

Airedales are sometimes referred to as a non-shedding breed and while this is not entirely true, the breed sheds minimally, and may be suitable for allergy sufferers.

They ideal owner for an Airedale is someone who is reasonably active and can give the dog a lot of attention and daily exercise. These dynamic terriers are simply not suited to the lazy life, and will not do well in an apartment.

As with most active breeds, they will look for ways to amuse themselves if they are bored, and this can lead to destructive behaviors like digging, chewing and problem barking.

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