Airedale Terrier Breed description: Character & Co

What are typical characteristics of Airedale Terriers?

They combine robustness and elegance. Their lovable nature and strong nerves make them the perfect family dog for both young and old. Despite their temperament, they are very eager to learn, which makes them suitable for different kinds of training. They show themselves to be extremely alert when it comes to protecting their house and family. They are also extremely loyal souls that want to please their master. Their innate passion for hunting can be kept under control with a sensitive training approach. 

What should be considered when keeping Airedale Terriers?

In general, Airedale Terriers are not very suitable for first-time dog owners due to their hunting instinct and their strongly developed self-confidence. They quickly take the lead if they are not trained in a consistent way.

Their lively mind needs to be kept busy with different kinds of stimulation. There are many ways in which you can satisfy their urge to move.

This includes

• taking them on bicycle trips together,
• jogging,
• running besides the horse or
• training on the agility course.

However, you should refrain from rough treatment or overly strict words. This is something that won't work with them.

As with many breeds that have wiry hair, you have to take care of the Airedale Terriers' grooming. You should have their coat trimmed regularly about every three months. This bring the advantage of them shedding almost no hair with it. Clipping is not recommended, since this way the coat will lose its special colour and will look soft and shaggy.

What are typical diseases of Airedale Terriers?

They are considered to be very robust dogs. Nevertheless, 

• hip joint dysplasia may occur. This is an acquired or congenital malformation of the acetabulum, which can have
• lameness as a result. Other abnormalities are a predisposition to
• retinal diseases or
• dermatitis (inflammatory reaction of the skin).

What to consider in regards to Airedale Terrier breeding?

Airedale Terrier breeders must ensure that aggressive or frightened dogs are excluded from breeding. Dogs with physical abnormalities or behavioural disorders should also not pass on their genes. Breeders can only obtain a breeding license if they work with healthy animals.

Special features if you are interested in an Airedale Terrier

Once you have decided to give the Airedale Terrier puppy a new home, there are other places to go besides the classic breeding club that specialises in the placement of puppies. Ask for example at animal shelters or animal welfare associations, because there are always Airedale Terriers in need. Another address is the Airedale Klub für Terrier e. V. which also publish information about dogs in need under the tab "Mediation". Here you also can find further information on buying an Airedale Terrier.

In any case, you will end up as the proud owners of a very smart dog, whose relatives have already been allowed to live in the house of actor John Wayne or US President Calvin Coolidge.