Airedale Terriers have served in the British military, the German police force, and the American White House. Perhaps best known as strong, brave, and energetic terriers, Airedales are the largest of the group. This dog loves to rise to every challenge, both physically and mentally, perhaps in part because of originally being bred as hunting companions. President Teddy Roosevelt claimed that an Airedale Terrier can “do anything any other dog can do, and then lick the other dog, if he has to.” The Duke himself, John Wayne, apparently borrowed the nickname from his childhood Airedale, Little Duke. Alert, eager, and very active, an Airedale Terrier is up for anything life brings its way.
Originally from England, this medium-sized, energetic, and active breed can grow to between 50-70 pounds and lives about 11-14 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Terrier breed group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Hunting |
| Origin | England |
| Breed group | Terrier |
| Average lifespan | 11-14 years |
| Size | Large |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 50 |
| Family | Terrier |
| Date of origin | 1800s |
| Original function | Guardian, police dog |
| Today's function | Pointing and retrieving |
| Average size of male | Height: 23 Weight: 55 |
| Average size of female | Height: <23 Weight: 55 |
| Other name | Waterside terrier, Bingley terrier |
| Energy level | High energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Very playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Shy |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Shy |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Friendly |
| Ease of training | Esay to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Very protective |
| Grooming needs | High maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS AN AIREDALE TERRIER'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Airedales are a lot of dog — they're diggers, chasers, and clowns. They're very playful, have lots of energy, and can be affectionate toward their favorite folks. An Airedale Terrier is intelligent, self-assured, and friendly. Airedales are devoted to their families, but as with any dog, best when supervised with children.
WHAT IS AIREDALE TERRIER BEHAVIOR LIKE?
Airedale Terriers are somewhat friendly with other dogs, so long as those other dogs know who's boss. (Hint: it's your Airedale.) They can be shy with other pets and small animals, but are generally stranger-friendly. This said, many are motivated and capable of protecting you and your home
Be sure to keep them busy — bored dogs can tend toward destructive behaviors, and a neglected Airedale will bark your house down.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN AN AIREDALE TERRIER?
Though headstrong, Airedale Terriers learn fast and are typically trainable — this dog wants nothing more than to earn your approval. But they're smarties, so start early, be consistent, and mix it up to hold their interest. A regularly exercised Airedale Terrier is a happy one.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO AIREDALE TERRIERS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Airedale Terriers are seasonal shedders and require weekly grooming. Brush regularly throughout the week, and schedule grooming and clipping or stripping at least once a season. (You can also hand-strip your Airedale Terrier yourself, but it's time-consuming.)
Their wiry hair coats can be tough to maintain at home; many Airedale aficionados prefer to leave maintaining the texture of this breed's broken coat to the groomer.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO AIREDALE TERRIERS HAVE?
This is a sturdy breed, but some Airedales are prone to hip dysplasia or bloat — know the symptoms, keep an eye on your dog, and contact your vet immediately if you notice a problem. Other Airedales have problems with hypothyroidism or colonic disease. If you've added an Airedale to your home, be sure to consult your veterinarian about these conditions.
