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The Airedale originated in West Riding, Yorkshire England. The name of dog actually comes from the area of West Riding called the Valley of the Aire, hence the Airedale Terrier. Oddly enough, this dog was bred to hunt otter, so what better way to create a dog that does that exact deed then to add an Otterhound and a Terrier together! The history of the breed shows it a few names, such as the Old English Black and Tan Terrier, the Rough Coated Black and Tan Terrier and the Waterside Terrier. Historically this breed dates back to the 19th century and has become ever more agile and intelligent.
The Airedale is an extremely intelligent dog and has a very high learning ability. They are responsive and very active making them great guard/watch dogs. As terriers are bred to do, the Airedale hunts small game such as otters and other small animals. This breed is an excellent family dog and is great with small children as they are very tolerant and gentle. They love affection and need a lot of exercise as they are high energy dogs, so regular long walks and preferably an off leash area or backyard to run around in would be ideal.
Weighing in at 45- 70 pounds (20-32 kgs) and averaging around 23 inches high, the Airedale is known as the “King of Terriers” as it is the largest in the Terrier group. The coat is quite wiry and short but doesn’t shed that much! Instead, this dog needs to be stripped of its coat because unlike other breeds that shed regularly or “blow their coats” , this dog does not, so “stripping” the coat is necessary for this breed. Black and tan are the AKC standards for colouring of this dog. As for the tail of the dog, it is to be docked, which is done quite quickly after birth (3-5 days actually) but isn’t required for the breeds standards. The eyes should be dark and small and the ears should be small and floppy but not out of proportion for the size of the breed.
Unlike some purebred dogs, the Airedale is relatively hearty as its not prone to any genetic diseases except for Hip Dysplasia which is in only some of the blood lines of the breed. As most terriers do, Airedales are prone to dermatitis caused by food and can have thyroid gland problems(either to active or not active enough.)
This dog excels in training as they are agile, responsive, intelligent and strong. Agility, hunting, and obedience would be fun for both the owner and the dog as these are the breeds strongest abilities! This dog is easy to medium level for owner training and constancy is the key!
For this breed, stripping of the coat is necessary because they don’t shed as regularly as some other dogs do. Stripping is done by a groomer who takes a serrated knife and pulls out the loose fur. As for the tail of the dog, it is usually docked ( meaning to be shortened by way of surgery) and this is done at around 3-5 days after birth! The breed standard states that this is not necessary as it is somewhat a controversial subject of owners and dog fanatics.
The breed is categorized in the Terrier Group. They are ideal family dogs and would do the best in either a big apartment or a house that has a big backyard. The Airedale Terriers average life span is between 12-15 years. They have about 5-12 pups per litter. When obtaining a baby Airedale Terrier, keep in mind that every puppy is different and to research your breed before bringing the baby home!
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