Airedale Terrier

Terrier Group

Also known as: King of Terriers, Ratter, Duck dog, Big-game hunter, Three-in-one hunting dog

Size Category:Large
Height:23 inches
Weight:50-70 pounds
Life Span:11-14 years
Compare Airedale Terrier

Affectionate With Family

How affectionate a breed is likely to be with family members, or other people he knows well. Some breeds can be aloof with everyone but their owner, while other breeds treat everyone they know like their best friend.

Good With Young Children

A breed's level of tolerance and patience with childrens' behavior, and overall family-friendly nature. Dogs should always be supervised around young children, or children of any age who have little exposure to dogs.

Good With Other Dogs

How generally friendly a breed is towards other dogs. Dogs should always be supervised for interactions and introductions with other dogs, but some breeds are innately more likely to get along with other dogs, both at home and in public.

Openness To Strangers

How welcoming a breed is likely to be towards strangers. Some breeds will be reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the location, while other breeds will be happy to meet a new human whenever one is around!

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Note: Scores reflect typical breed tendencies. Individual dogs may vary based on training, environment, and genetics.

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Note: Some traits may be unavailable for certain breeds due to limited or inconsistent data from recognized sources.

Care Guide

  • ●Airedale Terrier grooming requires minimal upkeep but benefits from regular attention
  • ●Weekly brushing maintains coat appearance and reduces shedding indoors
  • ●Mats should be gently separated by hand then combed out if found during brushing
  • ●Full grooming sessions—including bathing, brushing, and stripping/clipping—are recommended 3-4 times yearly
  • ●Owners or professional groomers can handle these sessions
  • ●Proper grooming may help reduce allergens for sensitive individuals.

Colors & Markings

Colors

Black & TanGrizzle & Tan

Health Information

Airedale Terriers are typically robust and healthy, but responsible breeders prioritize screening for conditions like hip dysplasia, a hip joint malformation. Regular ear cleaning is essential to prevent debris buildup and wax accumulation, while consistent teeth brushing helps maintain their oral health.

Recommended Health Tests

Hip EvaluationCardiac ExamOphthalmologist EvaluationKidney Disease Screening (CHIC)

📜 History

The Airedale Terrier originated in the Aire Valley of northern England, near the Scottish border, during the Industrial Revolution. Developed by working-class factory workers and mill hands in the mid-1800s, this breed was crafted to embody their rugged, fearless spirit. Known as the 'King of Terriers,' the Airedale was bred for hunting ducks and rats, with poaching likely contributing to its development. The breed’s creation involved mixing several existing types, including the Otterhound, extinct English Black and Tan Terrier, and traces of Irish and Bedlington Terriers, possibly with setters, retrievers, or herding dogs. Their versatility extended beyond hunting, excelling as messengers, sentries, and guard dogs in World War I. In North America, Airedales thrived as all-purpose hunting dogs, skilled in waterfowl, upland game, and furred prey. Beyond their working roles, they’ve also served as actors, athletes, police K-9s, guardians, and even babysitters, showcasing their legendary adaptability.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Airedale Terrier can be good with children if properly socialized. They are generally friendly but may have their limits when it comes to rough handling.
No, the Airedale Terrier is considered a low-shedding breed. While all dogs shed slightly, this breed is much easier on your furniture and clothes tailored for those who dislike cleanup.
The Airedale Terrier has average trainability. They can learn commands well but might require consistent repetition and motivation.
The Airedale Terrier requires moderate grooming. Brushing a couple of times a week should keep their coat in good condition.
The Airedale Terrier can be a suitable choice for a first-time owner who is willing to do their research and dedicate time to training and care.

🔗Related Breeds

Breeds similar to Airedale Terrier

American Staffordshire Terrier

American Staffordshire Terrier

8/10
80% Compatibility
Border Terrier

Border Terrier

6/10
60% Compatibility
Bedlington Terrier

Bedlington Terrier

6/10
60% Compatibility
Australian Terrier

Australian Terrier

6/10
60% Compatibility
Compare Airedale Terrier with American Staffordshire Terrier

Overview

About This Breed

The Airedale Terrier is a friendly, courageous, and clever breed known for its bold and fearless nature. Highly affectionate with family and protective, it thrives on mental and physical stimulation, making it an engaging companion for active owners. Its playful and energetic demeanor, combined with a strong watchdog instinct, ensures it remains alert and loyal.

🎭Temperament

OutgoingFriendlyAlertConfidentIntelligentCourageous

Purpose

Hunting (rats, ducks, and big-game), versatility as a messenger, sentry, guard dog, and working dog in various roles (e.g., military, police, herding).

Breed for

Badger, otter hunting

Best Suited For

Active families or individualsOwners with experience in training strong-willed breedsHomes with space for exercise and play

Ideal Owner Profile

This breed is best suited for an experienced or confident owner who can provide structured training, ample exercise, and mental challenges, ideally in an active household with older children or adults.

Training Difficulty

Moderate

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Common Challenges

Owners may face challenges with stubbornness during training due to the breed's intelligence and independent streak, as well as the need for consistent mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviors.

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About Our Data

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