Overview
The Airedale Terrier, known as the King of Terriers, is the biggest of the British terrier breeds. It has a hard, wiry black-and-tan coat, a long head and a confident, alert expression.
The breed is intelligent, loyal and strong-minded. It makes a lively companion and guardian for active owners who can offer both firm training and plenty of activity.
History
The breed was created by working-class people in the mid-nineteenth century in the valley of the River Aire in the West Riding of Yorkshire. They crossed the old rough-coated Black and Tan Terrier with the Otterhound and other terriers. It was shown as Bingley or Waterside Terrier until 1879, and the Kennel Club recognised the name Airedale in 1886.
Airedales reached North America in the 1880s and were used extensively in World War I to carry messages and mail and to find wounded soldiers. The breed also contributed to others, such as the Yorkshire Terrier.
Appearance
A square, muscular terrier, about 58 to 61 cm tall at the shoulder in males, with females slightly smaller, and weighing roughly 19 to 25 kg. Larger strains, such as the Oorang type in North America, may be considerably heavier.
The outer coat is hard, wiry and close-lying with a softer undercoat, typically a black or dark grizzle saddle with tan on the head, ears and legs. The tail is set high and traditionally carried erect.
Temperament
Airedales are intelligent, independent and stoic, and they are devoted to their owners. They can be stubborn and strong-minded, and they bring a typical terrier's drive to chase small animals.
They are lively, fearless and good guards, yet affectionate and playful with their families. They need firm, patient and consistent training, and are best socialised early to get along with other dogs and household pets.
Care and exercise
Airedales need plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation, such as long walks, play and training games. They can be destructive if bored.
The wiry coat does not shed much but needs regular brushing and professional hand stripping or clipping about every six to eight weeks. Although often called hypoallergenic, they have not been shown to produce significantly lower allergen levels than other dogs.
Health
A UK study found a life expectancy of about 12 years. Cancer is the most common cause of death, and hip dysplasia occurs somewhat more often than average, especially in the larger strains.
