Airedale Terrier dog training guide - Courageous, Friendly, Intelligent Terrier breed from England
ZapTerrier Group

Airedale Terrier

Also known as: King of Terriers, Waterside Terrier, Bingley Terrier

Origin: England

CourageousFriendlyIntelligentConfidentVersatile

Size

Large

Weight

23-32 kg (50-70 lbs)

Life Expectancy

11-14 years

Energy

High

Trainability

High

Barking

Moderate

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Compatibility

Children
High
Other Dogs
Moderate
Strangers
Moderate
Cats
Low

History & Origin

Developed in the Aire Valley of Yorkshire, England in the mid-1800s by crossing Otterhounds with various terriers. Originally bred to hunt otters and rats, they became the largest of the terrier breeds. During WWI, they served as messenger dogs, sentries, and Red Cross dogs.

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Training Tips

Keep Training Varied

Airedales are highly intelligent and get bored with repetition. Mix up exercises and add new challenges regularly.

Early Socialization

Expose to various people, dogs, and situations early to prevent territorial aggression.

Channel Their Energy

These athletic dogs excel at agility, obedience trials, and barn hunt - give them a job.

Common Health Considerations

Hip Dysplasia

Moderate

Joint malformation causing lameness and arthritis

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus

Severe

Life-threatening bloat condition requiring emergency surgery

Hypothyroidism

Mild

Underactive thyroid causing weight gain and lethargy

Care Requirements

Exercise Needs

1-2 hours daily. Vigorous exercise including running, swimming, and interactive play.

Grooming Needs

Hand-stripping 2-3 times yearly for show coat. Regular brushing and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.

Drooling Level

Coat & Colors

Coat Type

WiryDenseDouble coat

Common Colors

Black and TanGrizzle and Tan

Famous Airedale Terriers

Laddie Boy - President Warren G. Harding's beloved Airedale who attended cabinet meetings and had his own hand-carved chair
Jack - WWI hero dog awarded the Victoria Cross for delivering a message under heavy fire

Train Your Airedale Terrier

Get personalized training plans based on your dog's unique temperament.

Training Guides for Airedale Terrier Owners

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Airedale Terrier Community

Photos and stories from Airedale Terrier owners around the world

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