The Airedale Terrier is
known as the ‘King of the Terriers’ not merely because it is the largest,
but because of it’s many qualities and characteristics.
The breed was formed in
the second half of the nineteenth century by fanciers in the Aire and
Wharfe valleys of Yorkshire. The exact origins of the breed are uncertain,
however it is generally accepted that the Otterhound and rough-coated
working terriers were involved in the effort to produce a larger and
gamier type of terrier to deal with larger vermin.
Since the early days the breed has been much refined to produce the
handsome Airedale of today. The breed has a reputation for being an
excellent guard dog whilst not being an aggressive nature. His
intelligence and temperament have earned him a place of affection in the
minds of all those who have been fortunate enough to live with him.
The breed is naturally
affectionate and will never be happier than when with its owner. As the
largest of the terriers they enjoy an active life but provided they are
sufficiently exercised are equally well suited to a rural or urban
setting. Their waterproof coat benefits immensely from a daily groom and
will require stripping two or three times each year which is normally a
job for the professional groomer.
Anyone looking for a loyal, intelligent
dog, alert and always ready for a romp will, in choosing an Airedale be
starting a lifelong association with the breed and can expect to be
rewarded handsomely.
