Airedale Terrier

Name: Airedale Terrier
Official name: Airedale Terrier
FCI Number: 7

The nature of the Airedale Terrier breed

Airedale Terriers are intelligent, energetic and courageous dogs with a kind and friendly nature. They are very teachable and love to engage in a variety of activities and training, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their confidence and alertness make them good watchdogs, yet they are very friendly and sociable with people, especially children. They need firm but affectionate training and are ideal companions for active families who can provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation.

Height of the Airedale Terrier breed

Airedale Terriers are the largest of the terrier breeds. The standard height of this breed is:

    58 to 61 cm at the withers.
    Females: 56 to 59 cm at the withers

Coat of the Airedale Terrier breed

The coat of the Airedale Terrier is hard, dense and wiry, with a soft undercoat that provides protection against weather and injury. It is of medium length and is usually trimmed to maintain the correct texture and appearance. The typical coat colour is black with tan (rust), with black covering the back and parts of the tail, while tan is on the legs, chest, head and belly. Regular grooming, including brushing and trimming, is essential to maintain the coat's health and appearance.
Airedale Terrier coat colour

The coat of the Airedale Terrier is typically black with a tan (rust) colour. The black covers the back and parts of the tail, while the tan is on the legs, chest, head and belly, creating the breed's characteristic two-tone look.

History of the Airedale Terrier

The history of the Airedale Terrier dates back to the 19th century in England, specifically to the Aire Valley in the county of Yorkshire. The breed was created by crossing the Old English Black and Tan Terrier with the Otterhound and other terriers. The aim was to create a versatile working dog, capable of hunting small game and working in the water. Airedale Terriers quickly became popular for their versatility, intelligence and courage, and were used not only as hunting dogs, but also as guard dogs, military dogs during both world wars and later as service dogs in the police and rescue services. Today, Airedale Terriers are valued as companions and as competition dogs in various sports and disciplines.

Advantages - why get an Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is a great companion due to its intelligence, teachability and energetic nature. This breed is very versatile, suitable for various types of training and dog sports, making it an ideal partner for active owners. Airedale Terriers are also known for their friendly and courageous nature, they are loyal to their family and get along well with children. Their coat, which is coarse and less shedding, requires regular maintenance but is not as demanding as some other breeds. The combination of these qualities makes them an excellent choice for those looking for an active, smart and devoted dog.

Disadvantages - why not to get an Airedale Terrier

This breed is very active and needs a lot of physical and mental stimulation, which can be difficult for owners with less active lifestyles. Airedale Terriers also require regular grooming, including brushing and clipping to keep their coat in good condition. They can be stubborn and independent, requiring patient and consistent training. Their strong hunting instinct can lead them to chase smaller animals, which can be a problem in households with other pets. If not properly socialized, they can be aloof towards strangers.