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Airdale Terrier

Phonetic Pronunciation: AIR-dail TAIR-ee-uhr

Description

The Airdale Terrier was developed in the county of York over a hundred years ago by crossing the English Black and Tan terrier and the Otterhound. This King of Terriers was an intelligent, hardy and all purpose dog which was adept in the water, on land, at work and with the family. Originally used in World War 1 to carry messages to soldiers behind enemy lines and by the Red Cross to find injured soldiers.  Even though there are still working lines out there, today they are primarily companion dogs.

Temperament

This highly intelligent and independent Airedale Terrier can be stubborn. Patience and consistency in training will be rewarded as the Airedale Terrier has been known to reach great heights in competitive obedience, and dog agility alike.  With their great sense of humour, these dogs will provide their owners with unique and entertaining company and because they are so smart will pick up quickly what is wanted from them. If socialized early with children, the Airedale Terrier will do okay, however may be a little too rough for the really small ones.  They are friendly with strangers, but at the same time are courageous and protective.  Being more than happy to please, they get along with other household pets, but can try to dominate other dogs.

Appearance

Height:  56-61cm (22-24in)
Weight:  18-29kb (40-65lb)
Group: Terrier

Airdale Terriers have a bristly, harsh wire coat which is resistant to dampness.  Along with its v-shaped ears which fold slightly to the side and forward it has a black nose and a tail that is carried high, but should not curl over the back. Along with a soft undercoat the wiry outer coat should be tan with black (or dark grizzle) markings and some seen with a bit of red in the black and/or a small white star on the chest. The legs (all the way to the thigh), chest, undersides, head and ears should be tan with occasionally the tan seen extending up to the shoulders.

Grooming

Airedales Terriers have a hard, short-haired, double coat and regular clipping of the coat will be required 3 or 4 times a year, depending on the climate thus eliminating much of the shedding process. Daily brushing is recommended. Trim excessive hair between the pads as necessary and daily washing of their beard is advisable to remove food residue and burrs

Life Expectancy

10-12 Years (approx) 

Health Concerns

Even though the Airedale Terrier is a very hardy breed, some may suffer from eye problems, hip dysplasia and skin infections. If your Airedale Terrier does develop dry skin, he should be fed an adjusted omega-6/omega-3 fatty acid ratio in the diet.

Suitability

Airedale Terriers need to be taken for lots of long walks and even though most of them love to play with a ball, swim, or retrieve objects, once fully grown will happily run alongside a bicycle. After the first couple of years they will mellow out a bit and not be so demanding, but be aware without enough attention and exercise this dog will become restless and bored and more than likely become mischievous. The Airedale Terrier is not really suited to apartment life as they are very active indoors and will thrive better with at least an average-sized yard.

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