The Airedale Terrier King of Terriers

 

The Airedale Terrier is the largest and hardiest of all the terriers and,  an all-round useful dog has no superior.

It is generally conceeded that the Airedale had its origin in the valley of the Aire in England. The now extinct old English Terrier had the nerve and fire for dry land hunting, but was lacking the "nose" and too, did not have a coat that was water repellent enough for water work.. A cross between this terrier and the Otterhound was the solution to the problem of obtaining a satisfactory all-purpose dog. An ancient breed the Otterhound has been known in Britan since the early 13th century where he was used to hunt the Otter that robbed the rivers of their fish. On this continent the Otterhound has been used to hunt mink, raccoon, mountain lion and bear. This is an attractive rough coated breed measuring from 22 to 27 inch at the shoulder and weighing from 65 to 115lbs. 

These ancestors of our present day Airedales were far from them in appearance and were not even called Airedales but first they were known as Waterside Terriers, then as Bingley Terriers.

It was in 1879 that classes for Airedale Terriers, as such, were provided at shows. The Airedale Terrier became known as the original "3 in 1 dog." That means that they could hunt feathers, retrieve waterfowl & track/tree fur of any type. With these additions to the definition of the Airedale Terrier we now own a dog who can  "do it all."

The Airedale Terrier is a medium sized dog.  The breed measures about 23" at the withers, the coat is dense hard and double; tan with black or dark grizzle 'saddle' markings.Both sexes should be sturdy, well muscled and boned.

The Airedale is not quarrelsome, but if attacked, can master any other dog his own weight and usually more.

Airedale Terriers are eager to learn, and remember their lessons well. The trick is to stay on your toes and know what to ask your Airedale Terrier.  Many times the Airedale Terrier will learn a task on the first or second try only to be bored when asked to do the same task repetitiously.

In whatever  aspect you choose to train your Airedale Terrier-conformation hunting/working obedience, agility or search & rescue-- the trainer must remain calm, in control & keep a positive outlook. Positive reinforcement training will give you an Airedale Terrier who is not only anxious to learn but ready to meet whatever challenge you place before him or her.