Airedale Terrier

The breed dates from the mid-19th century and results from crosses of otterhounds and old English black, a breed today disappeared. Originating from northern England, in the Yorkshire region and more precisely from the Aire valley from which it takes its name. It was originally created to hunt the otter and the rat. Although nowadays it is mainly devoted to a career as a companion dog, it nevertheless remains used as a big game hunting dog and especially for hunting bears in Russia. It was selected by the British army during World War II for its tenacity and courage. It is also a jewel of the British police. It is at the origin, with the Rottweiler, the Schnauzer and the Newfoundland, of a dog breed created for the Soviet army: the "Black Terrier". It has been recognized as a breed by the Central Canine Society since 1963.

Playful, independent but cuddly, it devotes adoration to its master. Sociable with its peers, it is kind to the animals in its household, cats included. It has good abilities for training for defense and guarding. It possesses excellent sense of smell, it is intelligent with a very quick mind and understands the slightest order at first glance. But it remains a terrier, therefore stubborn. One must know how to make it love you for it to obey at first command. The Airedale needs daily physical activity, a long walk and active games are essential to it.

The Airedale measures approximately 60 cm at the withers for males, and 58 for females. Its weight is between 20 and 30 kg. Its long flat head shows small dark eyes, and lively. Small in size, its ears are carried to the side in a V, and folded. The coat is fawn except on the trunk, with a black or dark gray jacket. The tail is traditionally docked a third; if left long, it is carried high, tip folded back on the back. It must not be curled. The Airedale body fits in a square, dry, well proportioned. The coat is dense, stiff, hard, like wire.

This dog is very adaptable, provided it is walked enough. Moreover, it will make an excellent companion. However, its "clingy" side, like all terriers, can sometimes go to excess. It is a sporty dog and apt for obedience if its education is done well, from the youngest age. Sociable with its peers, it does not tolerate aggression from these. It is a proud and solid terrier, with a powerful bite that does not fear combat and will never back down even in front of a larger opponent or wild animal. Hence the interest of good socialization. To live with a cat, it must be accustomed to its presence from its youngest age, its hunting instinct risking to take over. Playful, it appreciates the presence of children.