Airedale Terrier
Breed Summary
The Airedale has a classic terrier head with virtually no stop (forehead), long shaped skull, v-shaped ears tipped over, sporty beard and mustache, dark eyes, and a straight back with an erect docked tail. Forelegs should be perfectly straight, with plenty of muscle and bone. The outline is square and these dogs are sturdy. The top line of the folded ear should be above the level of the skull. Their scalp should be free from wrinkles, stop hardly visible and cheeks level and free from fullness. They were developed by making crosses between the Irish and bull terriers.
Coat
Length: Medium
Characteristics: Double coat, hard coat, wiry
Colors: Tan with black or grizzle saddle
Overall Grooming Needs: Moderate
Nutrition
The Airedales requires 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals to ensure their optimum growth. The diet should be given according to their different stages, like puppy, adult, and senior. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity in seniors, which may cause several problems later.
Training
Airedales are medium-sized, but the largest of the terrier breeds. Because of their size, strength, and rambunctiousness, obedience training is highly recommended. An Airedale should learn basic obedience commands such as come, sit, and stay. This intelligent dog requires various training sessions. They are very friendly and like human companionship.
Exercise
Airedales are generally known for their top energy levels. They love to play with other family members. A regular play session of moderate length, besides walking, should be enough to satisfy the Airedale’s exercise requirements.
Health Concerns
Airedales are healthy dogs, but some problems with hip dysplasia, a malformation of the hip joint may occur. An Airedale’s ears should be checked regularly to remove foreign matter and avoid a build-up of wax, and his teeth should be brushed regularly to avoid dental and periodontal diseases.
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 60 of 196
AKC Classification: Terrier Group
UKC Classification: Terrier
Exercise Requirements: > 40 minutes/day
Height: Female: 22 inches; Male: 23 inches
Weight: Female: 40-47 lbs; Male: 44-50 lbs.
Physical traits: Strong, Muscular, Long
Personality traits/Temperament: Friendly, Clever, Courageous
Energy Level: Very energetic
Tendency to Drool: Low
Tendency to Snore: Low
Tendency to Bark: Moderate
Tendency to Dig: High
Social/Attention Needs: High
Life Expectancy: 11-14 years
Fun fact
The Airedale Terrier is known as the “king of terriers” for his large size.
References:
1. American Kennel Club. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.akc.org/
2. Dog Breeds | Hill’s Pet. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/breeds
3. List of Dog Breeds | Petfinder. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.petfinder.com/dog-breeds/
4. All Dog Breeds - Complete List of Dog Profiles. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/profiles
5. Dog Breeds | Types of Dogs | Purina. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.purina.com/dogs/dog-breeds