A remarkable Airedale terrier named Jack, serving as a World War I service dog, was honored with the prestigious Victoria Cross. His valiant act involved delivering a crucial message to request additional reinforcements. Even though he sustained severe wounds from shrapnel during his mission, he displayed unwavering determination and completed his task. In recognition of his exceptional bravery and sacrifice, Jack was posthumously bestowed with the Victoria Cross, a distinguished award among British soldiers.
Airdale Terrier
With unique fur and a distinctive appearance, the Airedale Terrier often looks like a wise old man. Hailing from the beautiful dales of Yorkshire, England, this breed is a delightful concoction of wit, charisma, and boundless energy.
Country of Origin
United Kingdom
Breed Group
Terrier
Height
Male 23-23 In
Female 22-22 In
Weight
Male 44-50 Ib
Female 40-47 Ib
Life Span
10-13 years
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In a Nutshell
The Airedale Terrier, fondly known as ‘The King of Terriers,’ has earned this title due to its impressive size, strength, and unwavering spirit. Among the most versatile dog breeds globally, the Airedale has distinguished itself as a skilled hunter, a formidable athlete, and a loyal companion. Airedales epitomize the alertness and willingness commonly found in terriers, only on a larger scale. Despite their bigger size, they share similar traits with their smaller terrier cousins – being bold, determined, and occasionally stubborn. While Airedales are docile and patient with children, they remain steadfast and courageous in safeguarding their homes and loved ones. Thanks to their famous “do-it-all” attitude, Airedales excel in various sports and family activities, making them outstanding companions for active households.
Life With a Airdale Terrier
Low (1)
High (5)
Energy level
Trainability Level
Amount of Shedding
Tendency of Barking
Exercise Needs
Kid Friendly
Pet Friendly
Looks & Personality
Being the largest of all terrier breeds, The Airedale is a well-built, muscular dog with a dense coat that lies straight and close to the body. The outer coat is hard, wiry, and stiff while the undercoat is shorter and softer. With long, muscular legs, Airedales carry themselves with a regal demeanor, and their distinctive head, sporting a beard and mustache, dark eyes, and neatly folded ears, reflects their keen intelligence.
With its intelligence, outgoing nature, and confidence, the Airedale Terrier brings joy to its human companions with a delightful playful demeanor. However, novice pet owners and those living in apartments should exercise caution. These dogs possess high energy levels and require ample exercise, and their intensity might be overwhelming for first-time dog trainers. Nevertheless, if you can fulfill their physical needs and offer them sufficient space to run and play, you will be rewarded with a loving, playful companion that will adore the entire family, including the children.
Initially, Airedales may appear somewhat aloof towards strangers, underscoring the importance of early socialization and training. Despite their high intelligence, they can also exhibit a touch of stubbornness or independence, necessitating a firm yet gentle approach from a young age. While Airedales are not typically excessive barkers, their terrier lineage may manifest in tendencies towards digging and chewing.
Common Health Problems
Airedale Terriers are susceptible to certain health problems such as cancer, hip and elbow dysplasia, allergies, digestive problems, dental issues, and heart problems
A tip from a vet
Airedales are intelligent and active dogs that thrive on mental challenges and regular exercise. Provide them with daily playtime, interactive toys, and opportunities for training and learning new tricks. Engaging in activities like agility, obedience training, or scent work can keep them mentally sharp and prevent boredom, which may lead to behavioral issues. Regular exercise is also essential to keep them physically fit and prevent obesity.
A tip from a trainer
Airedales are highly intelligent and easily trained, but if they get bored they are known to become a bit stubborn. Make sure to change up instructions to keep their attention.
Be patient with them if they get bored, and keep training sessions short, yet varied. They can also do very well with advanced training like obedience classes and agility
Did You Know
The Airedale Terrier has been featured in various movies and television shows. One notable appearance is in the 1921 silent film “The Kid,” where an Airedale named “Scraps” played a significant role alongside Charlie Chaplin.
U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt owned an Airedale Terrier named “Peter,” who accompanied him on hunting trips and became well-known for his hunting prowess.
Despite not being classified as a water dog, many Airedales possess strong swimming abilities, making them effective in water-related activities.
In The News
The History Behind the Breed
The Airedale Terrier, hailing from the Airedale and Wharfedale regions of Yorkshire, is a descendant of the now-extinct Black and Tan Terrier. Local otter hunters desired a versatile terrier that could assist in otter and vermin hunting while also serving as a reliable guard dog. To achieve this, they crossed large working strains of terriers with the Otterhound, resulting in a dog capable of handling adult badgers and otters.
Further improvements to the breed were made through crosses with the Irish Terrier and possibly the Welsh Terrier, which helped establish the desired size and type of the Airedale Terrier. Beyond his role as a terrier, the Airedale has demonstrated exceptional abilities as a gundog, especially in working with large ducks due to his agile and powerful swimming prowess. Over time, Airedales have been employed in various roles, such as pulling carts, serving as guard dogs, police dogs, and even assisting in military duties.
Famous Airdale Terrier Owners
Theodore Roosevelt, Fred Astaire, Charlie Chaplin, Helen Keller, Richard Nixon, John Wayne, Sigmund Freud
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