Airedale Terrier Dog Breed Information

The Airedale Terrier is the largest among other terriers and this why fondly referred to as the “King of Terriers”. Active and energetic, this sporting dog is also known for its intelligence. Its confidence makes it a good companion for the pet owners who can rely on this lovely dog at any time and in any situation.

It has also been blessed with a playful nature that makes it a delightful friend for its owners. Initially created to catch rats and otters, this breed actually originated from Yorkshire’s Aire Valley. Know more about this dog….

Star Rating:

Characteristics	Stars (based on 5)
Adaptability
Trainability
Health
All-round friendliness
Exercise Needs
Apartment friendly
Affection levelGrooming

Interesting facts about Airedale Terrier dogs:

• Airedale Terrier dogs have won Four Best in Show crowns that is considered as the highest honor attained by any dog.
• Besides being called as “the King of Terriers”, it has several other nicknames, like Waterside Terrier.
• It was used by the Police Department for Rescue and Search operations.
• The name of the breed has been given the famous Aire River in Yorkshire.
• Two Airedales lost their lives in the Titanic tragedy.
• The first Airedale coming to America was named Bruce.
• Its intelligence and courage is well known.

Is Airedale Terrier Dog right breed for you?

Some famous Airedale Terrier Dogs:

• Warren Harding, Woodrow Wilson and Calvin Coolidge

More information on the Airedale Terrier Dog:

History:

The History indicates that during World War I, the services of a brave and courageous Airedale Terrier, Jack were used, who faced the artillery and delivered a very important message to its battalion. In this mission, Jack got severely injured. It broke its jaw and one of its legs was shattered. Though, the mission was completed successfully, Jack passed away soon after. For its remarkable services, Jack was posthumously awarded with the Victoria Cross for exceptional courage and bravery shown. Airedale Terriers were bred as a multi purpose dog and they proved to be good hunters. They could swim well and were as keen as any Terrier. These dogs come under the category of working dog and today they are known for their obedience, agility and hunt tests. They are also quite friendly with kids and get well along with them.

Largest among other terriers, the Airedale was created in 1853 when an Otterhound was cross bred with Black and Tan, Rough coated Terrier. The dog loved to hunt for rats and otters.

Description:

Square in appearance, the Airedale Terrier is the largest among other Terriers. The size of its skull and muzzle is almost the same and the head is flat and long. Black nose looks quite distinctive and its teeth have a scissor bite. Dark colored, small eyes gaze at you without flinching. The ears are V shaped and fold slightly towards the head. It has a deep chest and level back. The tail is high on the back. Tan and black and tan with grizzle are two coat colors. The outer coat is hard, dense and wiry while the undercoat is soft and short.

Personality

The Airedale Terrier is an independent, hard working and a sturdier athletic dog. It has a lot of energy, drive and stamina. Airedale loves to chase rats, dig and bark. When owning an Airedale Terrier, it is imperative that its temperament and personality is studied. With socialization and appropriate training, the Airedale Terrier gels well with the kids. Its independent nature may become a little troublesome for its owner, but it is nothing that cannot be worked out. Once trained, this dog will surely be a pride for its owners who will love to enjoy its fun loving, active and comic personality. A lot of exercise is needed by them as they love to enjoy a fairly active life.

Health

Airedale Terrier dogs generally enjoy a good health, but may suffer from some health problems once in a while. Some of the problems that may be faced by these dogs are-

Hip Dysplasia

This is a condition which is inherited by the dogs and the thigh bone doesn’t fit well with the hip joint. When suffering from this disease, the dogs may experience lameness and pain in their rear legs. For proper problem diagnosis, X-ray may be suggested by the veterinarian. As the dog grows older, it may suffer from arthritis. This is why dog breeders avoid breeding Airedale Terrier dogs with this problem, since it is an inherited disease.

Allergies

This is a very commonly seen problem in Airedale Terriers. They may suffer from food allergies and as such the owners need to be very careful while feeding them. They must avoid all those things that may result in an allergic reaction. They may also suffer from contact allergies, thus it is imperative that they are kept away from certain flea powders, bedding, dog shampoos, etc. They may also suffer from inhalant allergies and they may be required to stay away from dust, pollen and mildew.

Hypothyroidism

This is a thyroid gland disorder and can result in hair loss, epilepsy, hyperpigmentation, lethargy, skin conditions and pyoderma. With proper diet and medication this problem can be solved.

Umblica Hernia

This problem may be present in the dog from birth, wherein internal organs or fat accumulated in the abdomen area may protrude from the umbilicus against the abdominal wall. In case of a small hernia, there is no need to go for any invasive treatment, but if the hernia is large, surgery may be required.

Care:

Since this dog is a working dog, it needs a lot of exercise to maintain its energy levels and stamina. The dog needs regular exercise on a daily basis. It is quite comfortable in the cold as well as hot weather; hence can be taken for its usual walk everyday, irrespective of weather conditions. Jogging and brisk walk is quite ideal for these dogs. They are intelligent, so training them is not very challenging.

Feeding:

Airedale Terrier dogs must not be given more than 1.5-2.5 cups of high quality, dry food in a day. They must not be allowed to take heavy meals at one time. Instead, they must be given small meals intermittently. Depending on their age, size, built and metabolism, the quantity of their food must be decided.

Grooming:

It is not very challenging to groom an Airedale Terrier dog. It sheds normally, particularly at specific times of the year. Regular brushing will keep a control on shedding and its coat will stay tangle free. Periodic bathing is recommended. Though, the dog doesn’t have many wrinkles, but they must be dried efficiently after being washed. Lanolin containing baby wipes may be used doe face cleaning. These days, Aloe Vera wipes are also available which are good for their skin. Monthly trimming of nails is necessary. Ears must be checked on a regular basis to see if there is any redness, dirt or foul odor emanating as it may be an indication of infection in the ear.

The ears may be wiped clean using cotton ball dampened with a pH balanced ear cleaner. The dog’s teeth must also be cleaned on a regular basis. It can be given food items that remove tartar and plaque buildup. All these factors will help you to enjoy your Airedale Terrier pet dog and ensure that it remains healthy and continues to amuse you and guard you with its loyalty.