Airedale Terriers

Airedale Terriers are medium to large size dogs that can be nice family pets as well as effective guard dogs. The Airedale Terrier is also known as the Waterside Terrier or the Bingley Terrier. It is the largest of the terrier dog breeds and is sometimes known as the King of Terriers. The Airedale Terrier is originally from Great Britain where it was used for hunting, pest control, and in the military.

Though they usually get along well with children with whom they are raised or well socialized, Airedale Terriers may be too rough for small children. Many Airedale Terriers do not get along well with other dogs or other household pets. If an Airedale Terrier is to be kept with smaller pets, it needs to be socialized with those pets early since Airedale Terriers have a high predatory drive.

The Airedale Terrier dog breed has a coarse, wiry coat. They have a double coat, with a softer undercoat. The head and legs of Airedale Terriers are tan. The ears may be a darker tan or brown color than the rest of the head. The tail and the rest of the dog’s body should be black or other very dark, blackish color. The black areas of the body may contain some red. Airedale Terriers do not shed as much as many other dog breeds. The Airedale Terrier should be brushed a few times a week and the beard should be kept clean.

Airedale Terriers require a significant amount of exercise. If they are not sufficiently exercised, they may become destructive. This dog breed is intelligent, playful, and independent, but can be stubborn. The Airedale Terrier needs firm, consistent training or it can become domineering. Training may work best if done in short sessions since Airedale Terriers tend to get bored easily and may have trouble focusing their attention for long periods of time.

The average life span of an Airedale Terrier dog is ten to fourteen years. Airedale Terrier dogs typically weigh forty-five to seventy pounds. The average height of Airedale Terriers is twenty-two to twenty-four inches. Airedale Terriers are prone to medical problems of the hips, blood, and thyroid gland.