All About the Breed: Airedale Terrier

Also known as the Waterside Terrier, Bingley Terrier, and simply the Airedale, the Airedale Terrier is an intelligent and independent breed. But how do you know whether you are ready to purchase a pet and if this breed is right for you? This information is absolutely necessary in making the decision to purchase a pet.

History

The origin of the Airedale Terrier can be traced back to 19th century England, where the working class people created the breed by crossing the Welsh Terrier and the Otterhound.

Throughout its history, the Airedale Terrier has been most commonly used as a hunting dog and companion, proving its superior strength and fearless ability to chase game into areas such as dens, and always emerge the victor, catch intact.

In 1914, the United Kennel Club recognized the Airedale Terrier, followed by the American Kennel Club in the 1940’s.

Today, while the Airedale Terrier has attained an underground popularity as a hunting and companion dog, the breed remains rather rare outside of Europe and the United States.

Personality Traits

Best known for its fearless and courageous nature, the Airedale Terrier loves to hunt, play, and stay busy. This breed is extremely loyal and protective of its owner and territory. These dogs are highly intelligent, yet stubborn, overly confident, and independent, causing difficulty in training. As a pet, the Airedale Terrier is loyal, obedient, loving, and affectionate, enjoying time outdoors and being in the middle of the family.

Train-ability

Due to its stubborn and independent nature, the Airedale Terrier can be somewhat difficult to train initially. Once the basic training and commands are understood, these dogs generally respond well to ongoing training. This breed is highly intelligent and has the ability to learn to perform most any task its trainer is willing to take the time to teach.

Establishing immediate dominance and trust is key to successfully training the Airedale Terrier. These dogs respond best to a stern yet gentle approach by a patient, confident, and strong handler.

Benefits and Disadvantages of the Breed

There are many benefits to owning an Airedale Terrier, such as its no hassle, low maintenance coat. This breed is highly intelligent and has the ability to learn to perform many impressive tricks and tasks. When properly socialized from a young age, the Airedale Terrier gets along well wit small children and other pets, known for its gentle approach to children. These dogs are very territorial and protective of their owners, making an excellent watch dog and deterrent to would-be intruders. The Airedale Terrier is obedient, loyal, loving, and affectionate, making an amazing hunting dog, family pet, and companion alike.

Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages to owning an Airedale Terrier. These active and athletic dogs require large amounts of daily exercise and room to run and play. Anyone wishing to purchase this breed lacking the adequate amount of time and space to dedicate to the dog is strongly advised against doing so. An Airedale Terrier not receiving the proper amount of exercise and space will often act out by destroying property, chewing, barking, whining, and ignoring basic training such as housebreaking.

The Airedale Terrier has a strong instinct to hunt and will occasionally indulge in a good chase. When on the run, this breed is surprisingly quick, and may pose a threat to other animals, neighborhood pets, and small woodland creatures. The Airedale Terrier must be leashed or properly secured at all times when outdoors.

As previously mentioned, the Airedale Terrier remains rather rare outside of Europe and the United States and can prove difficult to obtain. Individuals seeking to purchase this breed often encounter such challenges as inability to locate a breeder, high prices, and being placed on long waiting lists.

Common Health Concerns

While the Airedale Terrier is typically known as a healthy and hearty breed, they do suffer from a few health problems, including: hip dysplasia, dermatitis and skin sensitivity, likeliness to develop various cancers, and bloat.

Now that you know all about the breed, do you think you are ready to own an Airedale Terrier? Remember, purchasing a pet is a big decision and should be discussed thoroughly and seriously with your entire family.

Sources:

http://www.akc.org/breeds/airedale_terrier

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/airedale_terrier