About the Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is the largest of all terrier breeds best known as “The King of the Terriers”.

An adult Airedale can be a very comical, dignified, self-assured, courageous dog that is a bundle of fun.

This breed is very smart, but also independent and can be bold, determined and stubborn.

Unless you establish yourself as the alpha (number one), he can be headstrong.

Airedales are versatile working dogs, capable of learning a great deal, but they have an independent mind of their own and are not pushovers to raise and train.

They can be manipulative, and some are willful, obstinate, and dominant (they want to be the boss) and will make you prove that you can make them do things.

You must show them that you mean what you say.

Airedales are docile and patient with kids but won’t back down when protecting their family and home.

The Airedale is a hard-working, independent, and athletic dog with a lot of drive, energy, and stamina.

He is prone to digging, chasing, and hunting behaviors that come naturally to terrier breeds.

The Airedale is a lively breed, and he needs plenty of activity.

Young Airedales MUST have regular opportunities to vent their energy and mental stimulation to exercise their busy minds, otherwise they may become rambunctious and bored.

Providing enough socialization is important for an Airedale Terrier.

Most love everybody, but many others have protective instincts toward strangers.

Thus, Airedales need extensive exposure to friendly people so they learn to recognize the normal human behaviors.

Airedale Terriers were developed to hunt other animals so it is important to socialize them with cats if this is going to be a part of their life.

It is also very important to socialize your dog with other dogs to ensure that they are accepting of dogs of all breeds and sex.

Many have strong "prey instincts" to chase and seize cats and other fleeing creatures.

Grooming is an important part of Airedale ownership.

Airedale Terriers require hand stripping, or clipping and trimming every few months.