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Characteristics, History, and Health
Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier is a breed of dog that originated in the Aire Valley of Yorkshire, England, during the mid-19th century. It was developed by crossbreeding the Otterhound and the Old English Black and Tan Terrier, with the goal of creating a versatile and fearless working dog capable of hunting various game, including otters and rats. The breed gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in the United Kingdom and the United States, where it was used for hunting, police work, and as a military dog during World War I. Its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility also made it popular as a family companion.
Main Info
- Origin
- Aire Valley of Yorkshire, England
- Lineage
- Terrier Lineage
- Alternate Names
- Bingley Terrier, Waterside Terrier, Airedale
- Life Expectancy
- 11-14 years
- Average Male Height
- 23 inches
- Average Female Height
- 23 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 50-70 pounds
- Average Female Weight
- 50-70 pounds
- Coat Length
- ShortMedium
- Coat Type
- Wiry
- Coat Colors
- Black & Tan, Grizzle & Tan
- Coat Pattern
- Solid/None
Genetic Predispositions and Health
Airedale Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, genetic screening is recommended. They can suffer from hip dysplasia, gastric torsion, and hypothyroidism. Genetic testing for conditions such as coagulation factor VII deficiency, degenerative myelopathy, hyperuricosuria, and protein-losing nephropathy can assist veterinarians with diagnosis and proactive care, as well as help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs..
Personality and Behavior
Personality-wise, Airedale Terriers are known for their confident and outgoing nature. They are often described as being courageous, energetic, and playful. They are highly intelligent and trainable, but can also be independent and stubborn at times. Airedales are generally good with children and can be protective of their family. They have a strong prey drive due to their hunting background and may not be suitable for households with small pets, such as cats or rodents.
Airedales are active dogs that require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They enjoy activities such as walks, runs, and play sessions. They are also known for their keen sense of smell and have been used as search and rescue dogs.
It's important to note that while general breed characteristics can provide insights into a dog's behavior, individual dogs may exhibit variations based on their genetics, upbringing, and training.
Fun Facts
The breed has been used for wartime guard, messenger duty, rodent control, and hunting birds and games. Airedales were one of the first to be used in Germany and Great Britain for police duty.
Many U.S. Presidents owned Airedale Terriers, such as Woodrow Wilson, Warren G. Harding, and Calvin Coolidge. Author John Steinbeck also had an Airedale Terrier as a companion.
References
Fogle, B. (2009). The encyclopedia of the dog. DK Publishing.
https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/c_dg_airedale_terrier
https://www.pawprintgenetics.com/products/breeds/155/
American Kennel Club (AKC) - Airedale Terrier: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/airedale-terrier/
The Kennel Club (UK) - Airedale Terrier: https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/dog-breeds/airedale-terrier/
Airedale Terrier Club of America: https://airedale.org/
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