An
airedale is is the quintessential terrier in an extra large
package with an extra dose of humor!
Airedales can be good pets for an active family with time
for a dog. While rescue is a great choice for family who would
like a previously housebroken dog, families with young children
may want to consider a puppy- since dogs raised with children
are much less likely to fear or play inappropriate with children.
An Airedale is not a good choice if you work long hours or
aren't very active. An Airedale Terrier can quickly become
destructive if crated too much and exercised too little.
The Airedale Terrier was bred as a working dog and in the
past was a favorite breed for police work. The Airedale still
considers himself a working dog and enjoys having a "job",
even if that job is agility, obedience work, or entertaining
children with tricks.
If raised with love and a firm hand, an Airedale Terrier
is an intensely loyal, protective, and fun-loving companion.
Grooming Needs: Airedales should be brushed
weekly and most owners choose to have the dog groomed every
6-8 weeks. (A long coat requires more frequent brushing, but
some owners prefer the "teddy bear" look of a unclipped
Airedale) A show airedale is "stripped" of his undercoat,
but Airedales as pets are usually clipped. In most areas of
the U.S. It is difficult to locate a breeder experienced in
grooming Airedales. Try using our Airedale Groomer Directory
to locate a groomer near you. Airedale Terriers shed little, if any, and should not be
bathed too frequently.
Size: A healthy airedale will be approximately
22-24 inches at the shoulder. Beware of breeders boasting
that they breed extra large or "Oorang" Airedales--
the breed standard is 22-24 inches. To purposefully breed
a larger or smaller dog is to destroy the breed's purity and
tradition. Oorang airedales were developed during the 1930's
when airedales were farmed like livestock and dogs of this
size usually carry the medical and behavioral problems associated
with the 1930's airedale. If you are looking for an extra
large airedale please consult a rescue group rather than support
an unethical breeder.
Ask specific questions and learn more about Airedales through
the Airedale Terrier Google Group
If you plan to bring an Airedale into your home you will
be doing yourself and your new companion a favor by researching
the breed further. We have read and recommend the following
books:
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