Airedale Terrier
Modified: 30-11--0001 00:00:00
The Airedale Terrier (or "Airedale") is a large terrier from Aire Dale, York-shire, England, in the UK. At 50 to 70 pounds (23-32 kg), its is the biggest of the terriers. Originally bred as an otter hunter, it was also called a "Waterside Terrier".
Coat
Like many terriers, it has a 'broken' coat, requiring regular stripping to maintain the coat and square terrier shape. A broken coat is a harsh, wiry topcoat with a soft, fur-like undercoat. Airedale Terrier's do not shed as much and are less likely to cause allergic reactions in people prone to dog allergies.
Stripping is the correct process for grooming an Airedale, using a serrated edged knife to remove loose hair from the coat. Airedales who aren't being shown are often clipped instead. This process, while easier on the dog and the groomer, softens the coat and fades the colour, and sometimes causes skin allegies for the dog.(As the loose hair that would normally moult is cut, so the roots remain within the hair follicles.)
The correct coat colour is a black saddle, tan head, ears and legs; or a dark grizzle saddle (black mixed with gray and white).
Tail
The Airedale's tail is usually docked within five days of birth, but this is not a requirement of breed standard authorities. However, to show an Airedale in the United States, the tail is expected to be docked.
Mouth
Airedales generally have black gums, and large teeth. Black gums normally points to poor health in dogs, but its a natural coloration in this breed
Temperament
The Airedale is sometimes used as a working dog or as a hunter and retriever. Ttypicall, they are a stubborn dog with a great sense of humour. Theya re well trainable with pateience and are great family pets.
Health
The Airedale is relatively free of inherited diseases except for hip dysplasia in some lines. Airedales, like most Terriers, do sometimes suffer from dermatitis. Airedales usually live for around twelve years, but living to 15 plus years is not uncommon
History
In the 19th Century, breeders in England created the Airedale Terrier by crossing the rough coated Black and Tan Terrier with the Otterhound. The result was an intelligent, hardy and good all round working and family dog. The Kennel Club of England formally recognized the Airedale Terrier breed. 1
The Airedale was used in World War One to carry messages to soldiers behind enemy lines and occupying the trenches. They were also used by the Red Cross to find injured soldiers on the battlefield. Their courage in the face of danger was legendary; there are numerous tales of airedales delivering their messages despite having received injuries which were to prove fatal.
Prior German Shepherd's beoming the international choice for law enforcement and search and rescue work, the Airedale terrier often filled this role.
Post-WW1, the Airedales' popularity increased quickly mainly due to stories of their bravery on the battlefield with many famous people owning one. more recently, they have slipped in popularity somewhat, more because other dogs have become more fashionable than for any issue directly relating to this breed itself.
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