by Lian Slayford-Wei

Created on: December 20, 2009

Dog Breeds: Airedale Terrier

The largest of the Terrier dogs, the Airedale is referred to as the King of the Terriers. Faithful, loyal and possessing great personalities, the Airedale Terrier are a perfect companion for a family home, especially if you suffer from allergies as they are a non-shedding dog.

Origin and History:

The birthplace of this breed is in Airedale, a Yorkshire valley in the United Kingdom during the 19th century. They were bred by cross-breeding a Welsh Terrier with an Otterhound. Initially, they were known as the Waterside Terrier since they were used for hunting around the banks of the rivers Wharfe, Calder and Aire. In addition to this, they were also called Bingley Terrier and the Rough Coated Terrier until breeders settled on the name Airedale in 1879. The first Airedales were imported into America in the 1880’s.

Airedale Terrier’s were used extensively during the First World War where they were used extensively to carry messages behind enemy lines. In addition to this, the Red Cross used this breed to help locate wounded soldiers. There are many inspiring tales of brave Airedales who pushed through all sorts of dangers and suffered great injuries to deliver their messages.

Breed Standard:

The largest of the Terrier group, the Airedale stands around 58 – 61cm (23 – 24 inches) for males and 56 – 59cms (22 – 23inches) for bitches. The skull should be long and flat but not too narrow between the ears. The upper and lower jaws are strong, powerful and deep, the lips of the Airedale are tight and the nose black.

Eyes should be dark, bright and sparkling, showing that terrier intelligence and enthusiasm. Light coloured eyes are considered faults and not at all desired. Ears are V-shaped and small, but in proportion to the dog’s body.

The neck of an Airedale should be muscular, gradually widening to the shoulders and the rest of the body. Forequarters should be long with flat shoulder-blades. The back should be strong, lean and short leading to short, lean thighs and hindquarters. Feet should be small and neat in appearance with well-cushioned pads.

In the past, tails were docked. Docked tails would have been at the same height as the head and would not have curled over the back. Undocked tails should be set on high and not curled over the back either.

The coat of an Airedale is hard, wiry and lies straight and thick to the body. The saddle, neck and top surface of the tail should be black; all other parts should be tan. The tops of the ears are generally a dark tan colour. White patches between the legs are accepted.

Personalities:

The personality of an Airedale Terrier is one of a loyal and faithful companion. Due to the considerable amount of exercise they need, Airedale’s are not recommended as a first time pet nor for those living in apartments. They need constant, undivided attention and a large fenced-in garden to play in. Be careful though – Airedale’s love to dig so it’s best if you don’t mind a few holes in your garden!

Airedale’s are great for those dog lovers who suffer from allergies as they do not shed. However, they will need regular brushing to keep that beautiful coat in good shape. It is recommended that three or four times a week is sufficient and they will need regular baths as well.

Kennel Clubs:

The American and British Kennel Club’s offer great information on this lovely breed for anyone considering owning an Airedale Terrier.

http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/64

http://www.akc.org/breeds/airedale_terrier/index.cfm

Learn more about this author, Lian Slayford-Wei.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.