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A Guide To Breeds - Terrier
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Description
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The Airedale is a strong muscular dog, being the tallest member of the terrier group, with a harsh wiry coat, long
flat head and a deep chest. Their waterproof double coat is bristly and coloured tan with black or dark grizzle
markings and lies straight and close to the body. A well balanced dog, the Airedale stands square with a level back
and very straight front legs, the tail is carried high and usually docked. The V shaped ears fold slightly forward and
out to the side, the nose is black and the teeth meet in a level or scissors bite.
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Breed Origins
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The Airedale Terrier was developed from the extinct black and tan terrier in the 19th century in the Airedale area
of Yorkshire by otter hunters who needed a terrier to hunt otter and vermin but also to double as a guard dog.
Large strains were crossed with the otterhound to produce a dog robust enough to tackle adult badgers and
otters. Later the breed was crossed with the Irish Terrier (and possibly the Welsh Terrier) leading to the Airedales
current size and type.
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Temperament
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Airedale Terriers are fun loving and playful when they are puppies but need firm handling and extensive
socialisation and training starting at a young age to combat their natural dominance. If raised correctly they are
good with children but may be a little rough for the smaller ones. Once maturity is attained the Airedale is a
friendly, adaptable and courageous dog showing all the terrier characteristics, they are not very aggressive
towards other dogs but will stand their ground if challenged. They are devoted companions, very protective
towards their families and ready for a walk or a ride in the car at any time.
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Care
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The Airedale requires a daily brush to stay tidy and comfortable and the coat is shed twice per year - professional
stripping is recommended at these times. Bath only when necessary.
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Exercise and Feeding
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Airedale Terriers are naturally active dogs and need a reasonable amount of exercise daily plus time spent playing
games that require them to use their considerable intelligence. Splendid swimmers they enjoy the water but care
should be taken that they do not endanger themselves in water. An adjusted omega -6:omega-3 fatty acid ratio in
the diet is recommended if the dog suffers from dry, itchy skin.
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Potential Health Problems
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Airedale Terriers as a breed are robust and healthy dogs rarely requiring vet visits other than normal health
checks and vaccinations. There are a few breed specific problems particularly skin irritations when the dog is not
adequately groomed and older dogs are at a higher than normal risk of developing tumours. Hip dysplasia is also
an issue with this breed and as such exercise needs to be restricted until the dog is one year old.
Health & Nutrition - This growing sections of Beantown Dogs includes an alphabetical listing of canine health
issues as well as information on nutrition.
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Kennel Club Group
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Terrier
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General Size
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Large
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Exercise requirements
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Medium
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Adult Height
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Female: 20-23 in
Males: 23-24 in
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Suitability for Children
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Medium
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Adult Weight
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45-50 lbs
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Compatibility other pets
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Medium
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Average Lifespan
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10 - 14 years
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Grooming Requirements
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High
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Note: The breed registries indicated above are the most recognized of all-breed registries. The breed may also be recognized by
other registries not indicated here.
* The FCI is the World Canine Organization, which includes members (one member per country) that each issue their own pedigrees
and train their own judges. The FCI recognizes 332 breeds, with each being the "property" of a specific country. The FCI is not a
breed registry nor does it issue pedigrees.
