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Breed Description: The Airedale Terrier is the largest and hardiest of all the terrier breeds and a versatile all-around dog for hunting, obedience, agility and companionship.
Group: Terrier Group
Purpose of Breed: Originally bred by Southern Yorkshire men for hunting fox, badgers, otters and other game. They are also capable of tracking larger game like deer, wild boar and bear.
Country of Origin: Great Britain in the 1800s
Average Size: 44-50 lbs and 22-24 inches tall (at shoulder)
Color(s): Airedales are usually tan in the legs, underbody, chest and head, with slightly darker tan ears. The sides and upper parts of their body are black or a dark grizzle. Some strains of Airedale Terriers also sport white markings on their chest.
Coat Type: The waterproof coat is stiff, dense and wiry, but not bushy.
Grooming: The Airedale's rough, thick coat is relatively easy to maintain, but needs to be groomed and trimmed regularly to keep the dog from taking on a woolly appearance. Show dogs require professional grooming to emphasize breed standards. This breed requires standard care for eyes, ears, pads and nails.
Exercise Needs: Airedale's require a lot of regular exercise and should have a fenced yard. They benefit greatly from twice daily exercise and enjoy playing Frisbee, fly ball and the challenges presented by agility courses.
Temperament: Airedales are eager and responsive and highly adaptable. They make wonderful companions and are capable of learning and excelling at jobs other breeds are known for like hunting, agility-even search and rescue.
Common Ailments: Prone to hip dysplasia, eye problems and eczema.
Life Expectancy: Averages 12-14 years.
Trivia: The Airedale breed has been a popular companion for many notable figures in history. United States presidents Wilson, Harding and Coolidge all owned Airedales, as did actor John Wayne and author John Steinbeck.
More Information: Airedale Club of America
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