Airedale Terrier
Quick Summary
Intelligent, versatile terriers best suited for active owners. Excellent watchdogs requiring consistent training and exercise. Ideal for families seeking a loyal, protective companion.
Contents
Weight Range
50-70 lbs
♂ Male: 50-70 lbs
♀ Female: 50-70 lbs
Height Range
58-58 inches
♂ Male: 23-23"
♀ Female: 23-23"
Life Expectancy
11-14 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #85
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Terrier Group
Originally bred for Developed in the Aire Valley of Yorkshire during the 1800s, these versatile dogs excelled in hunting otters and vermin while serving as capable farm dogs and family protectors
Popularity
#60
Moderately popular breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 23"-23" |
| Female Height | 23"-23" |
| Male Weight | 50-70 lbs |
| Female Weight | 50-70 lbs |
| Coat Length | 2/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $800-2000 for purchase, plus setup expenses. Monthly costs average $100-200 for food and basic care. Annual veterinary expenses range from $500-1000, with additional grooming costs.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Confident and outgoing terriers with high intelligence and strong protective instincts. Display moderate to high energy levels requiring regular exercise. Generally friendly with family but can be reserved with strangers.
Social Needs
Airedales thrive on family interaction and need regular social engagement. Generally good with other dogs when properly socialized, but may require supervision. Can tolerate short periods alone with proper training.
Breed Overview
Airedale Terriers stand as the largest of all terrier breeds, featuring a distinctive wiry black and tan coat with a noble, square-built frame. Their muscular build combines strength with agility, while their alert expression and beard-like facial furnishings create an intelligent, characterful appearance. Known for their versatile abilities, these dogs display a perfect balance of power and grace in their movement.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Intelligent and trainable
- ✓ Excellent watchdog
- ✓ Low shedding
- ✓ Versatile working ability
- ✓ Good with families
Cons
- ✗ Requires regular grooming
- ✗ Can be stubborn
- ✗ High exercise needs
- ✗ May chase small animals
- ✗ Strong prey drive
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Friendly, Clever, Courageous |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Eager to Please |
| Grooming Needs | 2-3 Times a Week Brushing |
| Shedding | Occasional |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise including brisk walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation activities. Moderate to high intensity level activities are preferred, with a mix of fetch, agility training, and interactive games.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Airedales require 2-3 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for protein content and joint-supporting nutrients. Regular feeding schedule helps maintain healthy weight.
Feed 2-3 cups of high-quality dry kibble daily, split into two meals. Choose protein-rich foods with joint-supporting supplements. Adjust portions based on activity level and weight. Fresh water should always be available.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Best suited for homes with secure yards. Adapts well to suburban or rural settings with ample space for exercise. Tolerates various climates but needs indoor access during extreme weather.
Requires minimum yard space of 500 square feet. Thrives in suburban or rural settings with secure fencing. Can adapt to apartment living if exercise needs are met through regular outdoor activities.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Born in the Aire Valley of Yorkshire, these terriers emerged from working-class roots in the mid-19th century. Local factory workers and farmers developed the breed by crossing Otterhounds with various terrier breeds to create a versatile hunting companion.
Historical Purpose
Developed in the Aire Valley of Yorkshire during the 1800s, these versatile dogs excelled in hunting otters and vermin while serving as capable farm dogs and family protectors.
Fun Fact
Airedales served as military messenger dogs in World War I and were among the first police dogs in Britain.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular professional grooming needed every 8-12 weeks. Daily exercise requirements must be met. Early socialization crucial for balanced temperament.