Airedale Terrier

General Information - Airedale Terrier

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History

The Airedale Terrier was developed about a hundred years ago in the country of York from the ancient Working Terrier. "The King of Terriers," the Airedale was named for the Valley of the Aire in England, where lots of small game flourished. Originally known as the Waterside Terrier and used as a vermin hunter. The breed was later crossed with the Otterhound to make him a better swimmer. In addition to his role as a small game hunter, the Airedale has been used to hunt big game in Africa, India and Canada and as a police dog and army sentry dog in World War II.

Today the Airedale is primarily a companion dog. Some of the Airedale's talents are guarding, watchdogging, hunting, tracking, military work, police work, and competitive obedience.

Temperament

The Airedale Terrier is an independent, territorial dog breed. It is intelligent, but often stubborn and headstrong. It makes a good house dog as long as it gets daily mental and physical exercise. Initially suspicious of strangers, the Airedale Terrier makes a good watchdog.

Upkeep

This is an active breed that needs a chance to get vigorous exercise every day. Its needs can be met with a long walk, a strenuous game or a chance to hunt and romp in a safe area. It can live outside in temperate climates, but it is better suited for indoor sleeping. Its wire coat needs combing twice weekly, plus scissoring and shaping (clipping for pets and hand stripping for show dogs) every one to two months.