Airedale Terrier Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Airedale Terrier is the king of terriers, the largest of the group, with the intelligence and energy to match. It was bred in Yorkshire's Aire valley to hunt otters and rats, and later served as a messenger and guard dog in war.

Origins and appearance

The breed developed in the nineteenth century in the Aire valley, from crosses between Old English Black and Tan Terriers and Otterhounds. Airedales are athletic and square, with a long head, a bearded muzzle, a folded V-shaped ear and a hard, wiry black and tan coat. Males can reach about sixty-five pounds.

Temperament

Airedales are intelligent, confident and playful. They bond closely with their family and are often boisterous and funny. They are independent and strong-willed, with a strong prey drive. They may be dominant with other dogs. They need leadership and plenty of exercise. They are often good with children, though their size and energy require supervision.

Exercise

They need an hour or more of vigorous exercise daily, such as running, hiking, swimming and games. They excel at tracking, agility and obedience. A bored Airedale digs, chews and barks. Use a secure fence and leash. See recall training guide.

Training

They are very intelligent and quick, but not always willing. Training should be consistent, firm and fun, with variety. Early socialization is important. House training is usually straightforward.

Coat and grooming

The wiry coat needs brushing weekly and hand-stripping or clipping every few months. See wire coat dog grooming guide. Clean the beard, trim nails and check ears. Shedding is light.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Skin allergies. See dog skin allergies
• Hypothyroidism. See hypothyroidism in dogs
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Cancer in older dogs
• Heart disease

Living with an Airedale

They suit houses with a fenced yard, and active families. They enjoy outdoor adventures. Supervise around small pets.

Behavior and daily management

An Airedale needs a daily job. Combine runs, swimming and training, and rotate puzzle toys. Teach impulse control and a settle cue, and be firm and fair. They thrive in households that include them in activities.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bouncy and mouthy. Provide a crate, chew toys, early socialization and basic training. Avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for professional grooming, quality food for a medium-large dog, training classes and routine vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include underexercising, skipping training, neglecting grooming and allowing dominance with other dogs.

Questions to ask a breeder or rescue

Ask about hip, thyroid and heart screening, family history of cancer and bloat, and the parents' temperaments.

Is it the right breed for you?

An Airedale suits active families who want a clever, versatile and playful dog. It may not suit a sedentary household or one with small pets. For a smaller cousin, see the Welsh Terrier.

Training notes

Airedales are clever and often decide for themselves whether a cue is worth following. Use rewards, humor and variety, and keep sessions brisk. Teach impulse control early, since a large bouncy dog can knock over children or older adults. Consistent rules and plenty of exercise prevent most behavior problems.

What the breed is like indoors

Indoors, an exercised Airedale is a cheerful, clownish companion that wants to take part in everything. Expect a big dog's enthusiasm, a lot of attention seeking and a habit of carrying toys around the house.

The takeaway

Airedales are big, bold and brainy, and they need exercise, training and regular grooming.