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Life expectancy: 10 - 12 years
Weight: 20 - 23 kg
Height at withers: 56 - 61 cm
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Did you know that the Airedale Terrier is called the King of Terriers? It is actually an offspring of the Black and Tan Terrier, which unfortunately no longer exists today.
History
The Airedale Terrier is originally from the Airedale and Wharfdale regions of Yorkshire, England. They were first known as Waterside Terriers. Local hunters in the 19th century wanted a Terrier that could hunt otters and vermin, as well as work as a guard dog. So they crossed this dog with an Otterhound to make it a better swimmer that was big enough to handle badgers and otters.
Airedale Terriers were also used as draught dogs for carts, as police and army dogs. The ancestors of the Airedale Terrier were called Working, Waterside or Bingley Terriers. They could even be found in Africa and Canada as hunting dogs for larger game. During World War II, they served as police and sentry dogs. Today, most Airedale Terriers are simply kept as pets, only a few are still used as working dogs.
Character of the Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier has all the traits of a Terrier. They are friendly, pliable and courageous. These dogs are real fun-lovers and love people. They are devoted companions and love to go for a walk or a drive. Airedales are not afraid, but they are not troublemakers either. They are quick-witted and always ready for action. An alert Airedale Terrier is perfect as a watchdog and family dog.
Health
Airedale Terriers usually live to be 10 to 12 years old and are generally very healthy. Some of them have eye problems, hip dysplasia and skin infections. With dry skin, you need to adjust the ratio of omega-6/omega-3 fatty acids in their diet.
Care
You should take good care of your Airedale Terrier. Their coat should be plucked at least twice a year. If they go to shows, they need a bit more grooming. The excess hair between their pads needs to be trimmed. If their coat is not plucked, there will be a lot of hair in the house. Their beards need to be washed every day to get food particles out. So, if you are looking for a lively, devoted dog, the Airedale Terrier might be your ideal mate!
We have come to the end of this article. We hope we have helped you. If you have any comments or questions about this article, we would love to hear from you!
