Airedale Terriers

Originating from Airedale in Yorkshire, England, the Airedale Terrier is one of the larger terrier breeds. Initially they were bred to hunt otters, and later they became useful as police dogs. Airedales are large terriers, some weighing 70 pounds, and standing up to 20 inches in height. Females tend to be slightly smaller. They have a coarse, wiry coat that is typically brown and black. Airedales are known for being very independent, strong willed dogs. When training an Airedale, persistence is a must to compensate for their stubbornness. This often pays off, because Airedales have been known to be a successful breed in obedience and dog agility competitions.

Allowing an Airedale to socialize and be around other animals when they’re young is important to developing a calm temperament. Without experience when they’re young, Airedales are often aggressive towards other animals. Airedales are very good with children because of their energetic, playful personalities.

Airedales may be kept as either indoor or outdoor dogs. While they would prefer to be inside surrounded by people, they’re physically capable of being outdoor dogs. Even if your Airedale is an indoor dog, a big, fenced in yard is still needed to provide adequate exercise room. They’re big dogs that require a substantial amount of space. Barking is usually not a problem with Airedales, they tend to only bark when given a good reason.

Grooming helps reduce shedding, and because Airedales have such rough coats, it’s important to groom them at least once a week. If you wait any longer than a week, their coat will feel almost impossible to brush through. As with any dog, keep their nails trimmed and brush their teeth when needed.

Exercise is important to an Airedale’s health, and a daily walk is recommended; as well as a game of fetch or something similar. They have lots of energy and they won’t be happy without a chance to use it! The type of food you use is also something that needs careful consideration. If you choose to use a commercial dog food, Airedales typically thrive on a lamb and rice variety. Feed your dog twice daily, as opposed to leaving a bowl filled with food out all day. Read the ingredients carefully when selecting a dog food; anything labeled as a by product or preservative in the ingredients is unnecessary and non-nutritious. Tocopherols are the only preservatives that can actually be beneficial because they’re made of vitamin E. Other ingredients to avoid include beef tallow, BHA, BHT, cane mallases, and Ethoxyquin.

It’s possible to make your own food if you choose. Fresh, cooked chicken and turkey are beneficial because of all the protein they contain, and a variety of vegetables can be fed to dogs. Avoid garlic and onions if you choose to make your own food. If you make your own food, it’s essential to make sure you’re feeding your Airedale nutritionally balanced meals. An Airedale should receive 2-3, 1 cup servings of protein (chicken, lamb, turkey) should be offered, 2, ½ cup servings of veggies (carrots, broccoli, peas, celery, spinach) and 1, ½ cup serving of starch (potatoes, oatmeal) should be offered as well.

Hip dysplasia is a common health problem with Airedales, and it’s believed to be hereditary. A veterinarian can test for this disorder in a routine vet trip. If your Airedale does have hip dysplasia, both surgical and non-surgical therapies are available. Dermatitis is another common issue with Airedales, and can often be difficult to spot beneath their rough coat. Dermatitis can be caused by allergies, improper diet and genetic causes. If you notice your dog constantly itching or any abrasion on your Airedales skin, take your dog to the vet for a checkup.