Airdale Terrier

Airdale Terrier

This large, wiry, hairy Terrier is characterized by its ever-alert expression and its loyalty to its owners.

History:

The Airedale is named after a river in the north of England that was famous for its otters. These small aquatic mammals were notorious for deleting the fish stock so highly prized by both professional and amateur fisherfolk, and so the Airedale Terrier was especially bred for that region. It was crossed from the Otter Hound and the now extinct Black and Tan Terrier. The combination of these two breeds provided the Airedale with the admirable characteristics of an excellent sense of smell, swimming ability, and a resilient strength.

Although initially known by various names including the Working Terrier, the Airedale was officially recognized as a breed in 1879. Although the Airedale was always too large to enter the narrow burrows of rabbits, it was especially good at tracking.

The Airedale's excellent sense of smell provided the English and German police forces with an excellent early recruit for their tracking services. However, it was during the First World War that the Airedale truly made its mark in history. Both the German and English armed forces used the Airedale in the battlefields. This strong dog was well-suited to the mud and water of the trenches and was used for both the early detection of opposing forces and for carrying dispatches in difficult terrain.

Physical characteristics:

A large, elegant dog with a well-proportioned body and a characteristic alert expression. Height: for the adult male 23 - 24 in (58.4 - 61 cm). Weight: no specific weight but generally proportionate to its height, around 45 - 60 lb (20.4 - 27.2 kg). Airedales should have a long flat skull with an elongated muzzle, and muscular jaws ending with a black nose. The small v-shaped ears should hang towards the side of the head. The stiff and wiry coat should be colored black and tan.

Behavior:

Although outwardly a gentle dog, new owners are strongly advised to strictly control the activities of their young Airedale, or it will quickly take over as leader of the family. In Africa, India, Canada, and America, the Airedale has been used to hunt lions and bears. Its history shows that the Airedale is a large dog that is readily trained.

However, wise owners will remember that this dog is very scent-oriented and may be readily distracted by interesting odors. The Airedale can make an excellent family dog as it is generally very sociable with people and other dogs, and is slow to anger. This hardy, resilient dog will thrive when given attention and regular exercise.

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