Airedale Terrier

An affectionate and loyal dog, the Airedale is a playful companion. If socialised appropriately this breed makes a superb family dog. However, terriers are known for their tenacity and stubbornness and Airedales are renowned for their independence; this sometimes causes them to be aloof and unaffectionate.

A playful dog, but one that must be taught to ‘play nicely’; highly competitive, the Airedale seeks to win and does not lose graciously. Be wary of young children playing too roughly with this dog: their tolerance is short-lived.

A calm dog not easily excited. In fact, very little fazes such a breed that was designed to work with and dominate big livestock. The Airedale will not appreciate drama however, and rather than be timid amid excitement prefers to control a situation with force.

The Airedale can be trained to a high degree but this needs to be done sensitively and with variety. Airedales tend to get bored easily and seek to try to control the pace of the training. Be consistent and confident with an Airedale and the rewards will be apparent.

Like other terriers, the Airedale was born to enjoy a hunt and to never give up. Airedales have a high prey drive, which means that when tempted they are single-minded in the pursuit of their quarry. They are also lively and rowdy with lots of stamina.

Airedales will be loyal to their family and because of this can be wary of strangers. Good socialisation puts pay to this but if the trait is not addressed in the dog’s early years (with puppy classes, etc.) then problems will arise with unknown visitors to the family later in life.

A thoroughly independent dog, the Airedale was bred to work and to hunt by itself. Because of this it is a reliable and trainable dog but it has a tendency to do its own thing if not properly managed. The Airedale will seek to dominate where it can.

An Airedale will cope with solitude but only up to a point. Like any dog, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. If an Airedale is left alone it will become destructive. Terriers are on the whole excellent diggers and chewers but your furniture and carpets are in the firing line of a bored Airedale Terrier.

The Airedale is an exceptionally intelligent dog but requires proper training to fulfil its potential. Inconsistent and irregular training will bore this dog and you will be unable to hold its attention. Once trained the Airedale is obedient, but watch out for the signs of independence (previously touched on).

The Airedale is not a vocal dog but it is quick to let you know of approaching danger either when it is in the house or out walking.