Short History of the Breed

Airedales came from Yorkshire, England, probably around the mid-1800's. Originally, they were bred to hunt otter. People would put to task a pack of Otterhounds along with a terrier or two. According to the airedale FAQ, The airedale may be the "Old English Black-and-Tan Terrier," the "Broken-coated Working Terrier" and the "Rough-coated Black-and-Tan Terrier" outcrossed to the Otter Hound among others. It may also involve crossing with a Border Collie or another sheepdog.

Since they were bred to be used in hunting and the breed was developed competitively with other breeds at the time, they were bred to be able to hunt, fight, and think better than other dogs.

Airedales do some work today as hunting and police dogs but mostly they are just pets.

Physical Description & Size

The airedale breed is known as the "king of the terriers" because it is the largest of all terrier breeds. They share most of the common physical characteristics of other terriers, such their distinctive head and relatively square snout. They are similar to Welsh Terriers, but are much larger; and to Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers and Lakeland Terriers though larger and with a different coat. A full-grown airedale can be around 65-85 pounds. (The definitive physical description of the airedale is on the American Kennel Club website as the AKC airedale Breed Standard.)

It's worth noting that Airedales have hair, not fur, and as a result, are generally hypoallergenic.

Airedales tend to be great athletes, and can -- and need to -- play and exercise a lot! You'd not want to get an airedale unless you have a yard for them to play in, or else plenty of room at a daycare or other facility. For young Airedales in partcular, the more exercise the better -- for your sanity. A tired airedale is a happy airedale.

Temperament

Airedales are known for their abundant and strong personality. Described with words like cocky, self-assured, strong-willed, brash, and zealous, Airedales tend to be strongly independent and determined. Incredibly persistent, when they get their mind on something, they do not give up. (Ben's favorite example is the night Jackson spent a whole hour struggling to get his Kong out from under the bed.) Airedales are generally loyal to a fault (they want to be where you are) and incredibly protective of their families and their homes, and so they make great watchdogs. They also tend to be great with kids: patient and playful.

Dog Care (exercise, grooming, diet)

Click "EasyEdit" and start writing the Needs of this breed.

Health Issues, Life Expectancy

Like most large dogs, Airedales are susceptible to hip dysplasia. (When acquiring a puppy, you should check whether the parents had any hip issues.)

AKC Group

Airedales are a member of the AKC Terrier Group. Airedales, within the Terrier Group, are known as the "King of the Terriers" because they are the largest terrier.