Airedale Terrier
Description
The Airedale Terrier, often called the "King of Terriers," hails from Yorkshire, England, where it was bred in the mid-1800s by crossing Otterhounds with Old English Black and Tan Terriers. This breed was designed to be a fearless hunter, capable of tracking otters and rats alike. They carry a confident, outgoing attitude that matches their versatile working background, making them excellent companions for active families. Airedales weigh between 50 and 70 pounds and have a wiry, short to medium-length coat that’s usually black & tan or grizzle & tan. They’re playful and courageous but can show a stubborn streak, so consistent training is key. Their strong prey drive means small pets might not be safe around them, but they’re generally good with kids and protective of their home.
Grooming
Airedale Terriers sport a wiry, rough coat that needs regular upkeep to stay healthy and looking sharp. Their coat sheds very little, but dead hair tends to cling, so weekly carding is essential to remove loose strands and prevent matting. Use a light slicker brush gently to avoid damaging the coat texture. Professional handstripping every 8 to 12 weeks is recommended to maintain the coat's distinctive wiry feel and vibrant color, especially for show dogs. - Card coat weekly to remove dead hair - Use slicker brush lightly and carefully - Handstrip professionally every 2–3 months - Check ears and trim nails regularly - Bathe sparingly to avoid stripping natural oils Pro tip: When handstripping, focus on pulling out dead hairs by the roots rather than clipping, which dulls the coat’s texture and color. Black & tan or grizzle & tan coats don’t require special stain treatments but keep the beard clean to avoid food buildup.
Learn the Wiry routine:
→ Complete Wiry Grooming Guide
Walking
Airedales need about 100 minutes of exercise daily, split into two sessions to keep them engaged and well-behaved. Their wiry coat and muscular build make them great companions for brisk walks, runs, or even agility training. Because they have a strong prey drive, leash control is important, especially in areas with small animals. A typical day might look like this: a 50-minute morning walk with some off-leash play in a secure area, followed by a 50-minute evening stroll focusing on obedience and scent games. These sessions help burn off their energy and keep their minds sharp. Consistency is key; mixing physical activity with mental challenges prevents boredom and unwanted behaviors. Don’t forget to bring water and check for ticks after outdoor adventures.
Boarding
When boarding an Airedale Terrier, provide a crate sized between 42 and 48 inches to ensure enough room for comfort and movement. These dogs thrive on active play, so plan for two energetic play sessions daily combined with scent or brain games to keep their sharp minds busy. Avoid small-animal toys since their prey drive can turn playtime risky. Secure fencing is a must to prevent escapes during outdoor time. Staff should be aware that Airedales can be independent and sometimes stubborn, so patience and consistent handling are important. They enjoy interaction but also appreciate quiet time in their crate. Enrichment items like puzzle feeders or scent trails help reduce stress and keep them entertained. Regular updates to owners about their dog’s mood and activity level go a long way in ensuring a smooth boarding experience.