Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is a medium-sized dog breed originating from England that was bred for hunting ducks and rats. Physically, its elongated face stands out, while temperamentally, these dogs are characterized by their intelligence, energy, and affection.

General details

The breed has a medium size and a balanced structure. Males can weigh between 20 and 23 kg, while females range between 18 and 20 kg. The height for males is between 58 and 61 cm and for females between 56 and 59 cm. Their life expectancy is 10 to 12 years. They belong to FCI Group 3, which includes Terriers.

Breed history in brief

The Airedale Terrier breed has its origins in the Aire Valley, Yorkshire (England) in the mid-19th century. The manufacturing community created the Airedale Terrier breed from breeds such as Otterhound and terrier breeds like the extinct Black and Tan Terrier, although the Irish Terrier and Bedlington Terrier may also have been involved. The goal of creating this breed was to obtain a highly versatile hunting dog. Hunting was not the only function of the Airedale Terrier, as during World War I they served as messengers, participated in search and rescue missions, and in the detection of land mines. In the early 20th century, they were recognized as a distinct breed and quickly gained popularity in the United States where they served as hunters, police dogs, or companion animals. Today, Airedale Terriers continue to work as service dogs, although they are also popular as pets among families.

Breed characteristics

Airedale Terrier is a breed with a medium to large size build, a muscular and well-proportioned body, and a deep chest. The tail is usually docked and is carried high and erect. The head is characterized by being long and rectangular with a strong and square jaw. The eyes are small, sunken, and dark, and the ears are V-shaped and fold to the sides of the head rather than toward the eyes. The coat of the Airedale Terrier is hard, dense, and of medium length. The hair is usually straight, although it can sometimes be slightly wavy if the coat is very hard. The undercoat is softer than the outer coat, which is more resilient and rigid. Additionally, the coat is hypoallergenic, making it unlikely to cause hypersensitivity reactions in people. The coat coloration is usually tan with black or grayish markings on the back, the back of the neck, and the top of the tail. The ears can have a darker tan shade than the rest of the head. Generally, dogs of this breed are striking and their appearance exudes confidence and intelligence. The Airedale Terrier is known as the "King of Terriers" for its size, strength, and versatility. Additionally, it is an affectionate and protective dog.

Common health problems

As with other dog breeds, the Airedale Terrier may have a certain disposition to health problems. Some of the most common disorders and diseases are hypothyroidism, cataracts, hip dysplasia, hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia and von Willebrand's disease.