A Guide to the Airedale Terrier, The King of Terriers Why This Breed is the 'King of Terriers'

BY | June 18 | COMMENTS PUBLISHED BY
A Guide to the Airedale Terrier, The King of Terriers

The Airedale Terrier originates from England, where it was bred to excel at hunting vermin, and was later bred with the Otterhound.

Large BreedHip DysplasiaPyoderma (Skin Infection)Airedale Terrier

Is This Breed Right for You?

  • 1The Airedale Terrier temperament makes them family-orientated dogs who are friendly and easily adaptable.
  • 2These dogs are alert and courageous which makes them perfect guardian pets.
  • 3Daily exercise is recommended for them so they may not be the best breed for someone too busy to take them out.

HISTORY

The Airedale Terrier, also known as the king of terriers and Waterside Terrier, originated in the valley (or dale) around the river of Aire in Yorkshire, England (hence Airedale). A combination of the Black and Tan Terrier (now Welsh Terrier) and the Otterhound, the Airedale Terrier has all of the vermin hunting skill of their Terrier ancestors and the swimming skill of their Otterhound side, making them a very versatile sporting dog, and earning their nickname, "king of terriers.

Quick Facts

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    Size

    Large

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    Lifespan

    10-13 years

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    Hair Length

    Medium, Short

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    Male Height

    22-24 inches (56-61 cm)

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    Male Weight

    50-65 pounds (23-29 kg)

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    Female Height

    22-23 inches (56-58 cm)

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    Female Weight

    40-45 pounds (18-20 kg)

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    Litter Size

    8-12 with an average of 9 puppies per litter

Personality

The Airedale Terrier exhibits all the terrier characteristics. This breed of dog is very fun-loving, friendly, and adaptable. Airedale Terriers are extremely devoted to their family. Being an alert and courageous dog, these dogs are excellent for protection..

Color

Airedale Terriers have a black body with tan markings on the legs, head, chest, and tail. A small white patch on the chest is acceptable as is a slight amount of red in the black parts of the body.

Health Concerns

Though a very healthy breed of dog, some Airedale Terriers are prone to:

Appearance

The Airedale Terrier is an intelligent and muscular dog breed. They have long flat head, deep chest, v-shaped ears, short and wiry double coat, and a tail that is carried high. The coat comes in tan with black or dark grizzle markings. Normally, an adult Airedale Terrier can grow up to a height of 2224 inches and weigh around 4065 pounds.

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