The Airedale Terrier: Is This the Breed for You?

There are many different breeds in the world, each has its own mannerisms, good points, faults and disorders. Which is right for you? One has to take many things into account before deciding which breed would be a good fit in their busy lives these days.

Over the years I have had many different breeds myself and have also had the opportunity to pet sit for a variety of dogs. One of the most interesting dogs that I have had contact with is the Airedale Terrier. Often referred to as the "King of Terriers" by many Airedale owners because it is the biggest and as far as they are concerned the best of the terrier breed.

From my experience it is a versatile breed that is excellent at being a loving companion, fearless guard dog, great hunter and a good family dog. It does seem to have some strange quirks such as tossing its head back and forth while making a noise like a bear but one gets use to that rather quickly. At first it can sound a bit on the scary side but it means no harm.

Airedales are rather on the large side but seem to do all right in a small area as long as they are walked regularly and given plenty of exercise. Of course they would prefer to be outdoors and doing the job they were originally bred for a hundred years ago, but these days there isn't that much need for a good dog to hunt otters. These large terriers love the water but are just as at home in the desert and even in the cold climate of the arctic.

The Airedale is a clean, pretty odorless dog that doesn't need bathing often. This type of terrier is referred to as a two coated dog as it has a wiry outer coat with a heavy undercoat that has a softer texture. It needs special grooming and unless you are ready to take on the responsiblity of doing it yourself it can be costly because of the size of the dog. At first glance this breed looks very majestic and handsome with its unique hair cut and long beard. But once you are with one for the day you realize that this cute beard is not what it is cut out to be! While drinking the dogs beard hangs in the water bowl becoming sopping wet and unless you stand over him every time he drinks to mop his face one ends up with a trail of water across the floor at least 10 feet long! Keeping the dogs bowl out in the yard can help with this but his face is usually always wet either way.

Due to the size and stong willed behavior of this breed it is highly recommended to have good obedience training. It is like a bull on a leash and unless you want to be drug down the street it is a good idea for you to be the one in charge at all times. It is a very intellegent breed that learns easily but does have a mind of its own when it wants something. They are even tempered but if they are provoked by another animal they will give it their all as they were bred for their courage, tenacity and true terrier spirit.

Although they are courageous and high spirited the Airedale is also known for being and extremely kind dog and wonderful with children. They have a deep instinct to protect others which makes them an ideal guardian with every thing from your children to any farm animals that may need watching over on your property.

There are a few health ailments to be aware of if you are considering an Airedale. Being a large breed of dog this makes it a candidate for hip dysplasia. Most large breeds are at more risk for this health problem than the smaller types of dogs, a good thing to keep in mind when deciding which breed is right for you. Airedales tend to be gun-shy or scared of loud noises such as thunder and have also been noted for being afraid of sudden flashes of light like lightning or the flash of a camera. If continually subjected to the abrupt loud noises and sudden flashes of light they can become quite neurotic in behavior. Excessive panting, drooling, pacing and diarrehea are some of the neurotic behaviors that I have noticed in the one that I have had contact with.

When all things are taken in account the Airedale is a fun, loving and enjoyable dog to be with. As with all breeds there are pros and cons, it just depends on your personal likes and dislikes as to the decision if this breed would be a good fit in your life.