Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier was developed in the 19th century in the Aire valley in Yorkshire to hunt otters and rats along rivers. It later served as a messenger and medical dog in the First World War.

It was also one of the first police dogs in Europe.

Intelligent, confident and humorous, the Airedale is playful with children and protective of its family. It can be independent and stubborn.

It needs varied, positive training, as it bores easily.

This is a fairly robust breed. Hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism and some skin conditions should be monitored.

Regular veterinary follow-up is recommended.

Good-quality food matched to its activity suits it.

Avoid excess weight.

It needs one to two hours of daily activity: running, games, tracking and swimming.

It makes an excellent hiking companion.

The Airedale copes fairly well with moderate heat, especially with a coat kept short. In summer, walk it during the cool hours, with water. It needs a house with a garden and an active family; in an apartment it needs lots of outings.

Its wiry coat needs weekly brushing and stripping or clipping every two to three months. It sheds little.

Clean its beard after meals.