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Article Series: Dog Breeds, Breeders & Breeding
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Dog
Breeds: Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier is not called the “King
of Terriers” for nothing. This dog is the tallest terrier from
the entire breed family. One of its primary progenitors are
the Black and Tan and the old English Terriers. They were medium-sized
dogs whom highly admired by Yorkshire hunters that would go
after all sorts of prey, ranging from small rabbits to fox.
Not only were they reliable hunters of land animals, these
Terriers were also prized as great bird retrievers. Sometime
during the mid-1800s, many of these Terriers were bred with
Otterhounds. The goal was to create a dog that had increased
water hunting skills as well as a stronger sense of tracking.
The result was a sharp looking dog that became excellent otter
hunters.
These otter hunting dogs became the breed that we know of
today referred to as the Airedale Terrier. Their name was actually
called “Waterside Terriers” at first, but was changed to the
Airedale in 1878.
Terrier enthusiasts began to show these dogs in ringside competitions.
To further the appreciable beauty of the Airedale Terrier,
they were mixed with both Irish and Bull Terriers. By the early
1900s, the well-known Terrier and champion “Master Briar” became
the father of today's Airedale Terriers.
Master Briar produced dogs that highly influenced the breed
in the United States. They picked up popularity as strong hunters,
proving themselves to be worthy at hunting big game. However,
after the end of World War I their numbers declined and today
they are a rare breed to come across, yet their great reputation
remains the same.
Personality
The Airedale Terrier is considered to be the most versatile
of the Terrier dog breed group. They are adventurous, bold,
and love to play. Highly intelligent and a bit stubborn, training
may take some time. However, with the right amount of training
time, these dogs are obedient, loyal, and make excellent watchdogs.
And so long as the Airedale Terrier gets plenty of mental and
physical stimulation, they can make obedient house pets.
Taking Care Of Your Airedale Terrier
Airedale Terrier dogs require a lot of exercise. Without enough
physical exertion, they tend to get bored easily and can be
quite destructive, if left alone inside the house. Long walks
or active games should provide plenty of stimulation to can
take care of these needs.
Airedale Terriers are able to live outside during cold climates
but like all house dogs, it's always best to have them sleep
inside with the family. Grooming takes a bit of extra work
than most breeds, due to its long wiry coat. A thorough combing
2 - 3 times per week is ideal. Clipping and scissoring is also
recommended about every eight weeks or so.
Health Information
The average lifespan for healthy Airedale Terrier dog is between
10 and 14 years. They are a very healthy breed in which CHD
is the only major health issue that may come up. Minor concerns
include gastric torsion and hypothyroidism.
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: 2009
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