Edie MacKenzie

Edie MacKenzie is a published author, traveler, dog lover, and tortoise enthusiast. Passionate about what she does, her books provide peopel a firm grounding in the dog breed and their unique characteristics with a nice touch of humor.

Focus on the Airedale Terrier

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A medium-sized, athletically built dog, the Airedale can stand up to 24 inches at the withers, and weigh as much as 65 pounds. It is the biggest of the true terrier breeds, and is often known as the ‘King of Terriers’

They have a wiry, black and tan coat and a unique ‘square’ profile, which makes them easily recognizable. The Airedale has the typical, ‘game’ terrier temperament, with an alert and energetic demeanor that suggests they are ready to meet any challenge.

The breed originated in Yorkshire, England in the area between the Rivers Aire and Wharf. The original cross was between the Otterhound and Welsh terrier, and was called by a number of names, including Waterside terrier, Bingly terrier, and the Rough coated terrier

The breed was recognized by the UK Kennel Club in 1886, and thereafter was known as the Airedale Terrier.

By this time the breed had already gained a reputation as a hard working, trustworthy dog, and this saw it make the transition from a purely hunting dog, to one that became a favored breed of the police and military.

These are active, independent and highly intelligent dogs. They are generally easy to train, but have a decidedly stubborn streak and also become bored quite easily. It is therefore important to base training on short, very focused sessions.

But the Airedale isn’t just all work and no play. These fun-loving dogs have a decided sense of humor and a genuine love of life. They love to play and make excellent pets for the right owner.

The Airedale is a generally healthy dog although it is not immune to the medical problems that typically affect purebred dogs. Hip displaysia, eye problems and skin disorders (especially hot spots) occur in the breed. Bloat, a serious, often fatal, condition can also occur if the dog is exercised too soon after a meal. Average lifespan for the breed is 12 years.

The rough wiry coat of the Airedale requires a daily brush down to keep it in good condition. The coat will also have to be professionally hand stripped a couple of times a year.

The Airedale is a low shedding breed, so it is a good for those who have a particular aversion for dog hair. It may even be suitable for allergy sufferers.

They ideal owner for an Airedale is someone who is reasonably active and can give the dog a lot of attention and daily exercise. These dynamic terriers are simply not suited to the lazy life, and will not do well in an apartment.

As with most active breeds, they will look for ways to amuse themselves if they are bored, and this can lead to destructive behaviors like digging, chewing and problem barking.

If you’re looking for a name for your Airedale Terrier, the best advice is to visit a dog names, website. The one that I recommend is Puppy Names HQ, which has a huge database of excellent dog names including 1000s of girl dog names.

Examples Of Terriers (Part 1)

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Airedale Terrier: The Airedale terrier is a large dog with tremendous play drive. Exercise is imperative for this breed. Should you attempt to cheat your Airedale out of running, he will climb the walls. Airedale terriers have been found by trainers to be comical, energetic, easy to train. This breed is also very capable of protection or police work. Airedales require regular professional grooming, and many are actually plucked instead of cut. A well-groomed Airedale is a happy Airedale.

American Staffordshire Terrier: The American Staffordshire terrier is a close relative to the English Staffordshire bull terrier. Similar to the American pit bull terrier in appearance, this breed is AKC registered. The American pit bull terrier is still often bred for its fighting drive. The American Staffordshire terrier is more commonly bred for the show ring. As with all dogs, there are exceptions. We do not mean to imply that every American Staffordshire terrier will be gentle and that all pit bull terriers will be aggressive. Everything considered, many people recommend this breed for its loyalty toward family and its desire to comply.

Australian Terrier: The Australian terrier is a spunky little guy that is lively, stubborn, smart, adorable, and often slow to housebreak. It takes an assertive owner to command the respect of an Australian terrier. You would be marveled at the fine performances offered by this breed at obedience matches. Once you have earned his respect, you have gained a great little dog.

Bedlington Terrier: The Bedlington terrier resembles a lamb, is as stubborn as a mule, and is as cute as a bunny. Trainers who work with the lovely Bedlingtons claim that they can be trained like a dream and capture their hearts. She was great with the family and possessed the uncanny ability to read their minds. Some have a genetic predisposition to liver disease, but it is important to know that diagnostic tests are available in order to rule out this problem in your potential puppy.

Bull Terrier: The bull terrier is generally recognized as the dog of General George Patton or as Spuds McKenzie. This breed is known for its aggression toward other dogs and small animals. They do however tend to have good relationships with children because they perceive the youngsters’ vulnerability as part of the pack they should protect. Many trainers have trained bull terriers in obedience with good success. Unfortunately, obsessive-compulsive behaviors have been noted in this breed, which can be exhibited as tail chasing, obsessive licking, and self-mutilation.

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