Airedale Terrier A Loyal And Courageous Companion!
Background and Description of the Airedale Terrier:
The Airedale Terriers, are the largest of the terrier group and are often referred to as the king of terriers.
Originating in the valley of Aire in Yorkshire, England, they were cross-bred with the Otterhound and were
once known as Waterside Terriers.
Sport-huntsmen used them in pursuit of Otters. However, they are
equally adept and astoundingly quick, as rat catchers. Yet, even more versatile, Airedales also excel in
setting, retrieving and flushing, and have hunted with great agility, the fox, badger, weasel, foumart,
and water rat. Other nations have used them for big game hunting.
During times of war, the Airedale was used to carry messages, and as a camp guard dog. He carried out
his duties very well, never abandoning the task even if injured. Police work has been another area of
notable achievements. This breed has been a beloved dog among celebrities, including former president
Warren Harding and actor John Wayne. Mr. Harding's dog, Laddie Boy, was given birthday parties with his dog friends
and is commemorated by a statue at the Smithsonian Institution. He also gained the distinction of receiving
the most press coverage of any White House dog, with stories about him running almost daily.
Appearance:
Height: 22-24 inches Weight: 44-70 lbs.
Color variations: Tan with a black saddle
Coat and Care:
The Airedale Terrier has a hard, dense and wiry outer coat, with a second soft undercoat.
Daily brushing is needed to prevent matting. The coat is waterproof and sheds little, meaning that the dead
hair has a tendency to build up in the coat and needs to be regularly removed. On occasion, the Airedale will
"blow" his coat all at once in a heavy shedding.
If you acquire an Airedale you are planning to show, the coat must be stripped which is a method
of pulling out the loose/dead hair. It is done with
a serrated edged knife and is quite time consuming. A professional groomer can do this, or you can learn the
technique yourself.
There is also a great tool for home grooming double-coated dogs that makes short work of removing the accumulation
of dead hair in the undercoat.
It's called
The FURminator
and not only do dog owners rave about it, but their pets seem to love it and sit still while having their treatment.
The Furminator also leaves the coat looking shiny and healthy and is amazing for keeping shedding under control.
Personality and Traits:
You'll never meet a more loyal and loving dog than the Airedale Terrier. He is a fearless watchdog,
though not aggressive. Extremely resilient and adaptable. Intelligent, eager to please and very playful.
Loves being part of the family and thrives on attention. Like most terriers, he can be a digger if bored
or not given enough companionship.
Training is best done by using creativity and variety or your
terrier will lose interest and start looking for something more exciting to do. Airedales are very intelligent
thinkers and respond enthusiastically if you give them positive feedback and let them know when they are
pleasing you. Harshness will not get the job done, but patience and affection will.
As for getting along with other dogs, just see how gentle the Airedaale is with a Norwich Terrier puppy in this
video and judge for yourself:
Activity Level:
Airedales, while enjoying a high amount of activity, are usually quiet and low key snugglers inside the
home. Long walks on a daily basis will result in a very contented dog.
Space Needs:
The style of home isn't so important as the need to get significant exercise. Apartment will do, but this
breed also enjoys romping around outside.
Children:
The Airedale Terrier is a great dog for children. They are patient and gentle and love a game - several
in fact!
Elderly:
The Airdale would make a very loving and protective companion for the elderly, providing they can be
given sufficient exercise.
Book Recommendations:
NEW OWNER'S GUIDE TO AIREDALE TERRIERS Covers the necessary information owners need, from
training, feeding and showing, to skin and coat care, dental care, breeding and genetics. Many color
photos.
AIREDALES This breed, originating in the British Isles, is very popular among dog fanciers and is a frequent
winner at dog shows. The Airedale makes a devoted family member. Covers information on training, exercise,
grooming, feeding, and much more.
AIREDALE TERRIER (KCB) Covers breed history, characteristics, puppy selection, feeding, training, health care and behavior.
Also discusses preparing for the puppy's arrival, housetraining and potential puppy problems. Many color
photos.
Share Your Airdale Pictures
Visit
Smilebox.com and create amazing greetings with your dog photos, videos, and music. Email them free.
This dog has a beautiful carriage and is very photogenic. I am sure that proud owners are always
taking pictures they want to share with family and friends.
Now you can do this with a Smilebox, a system that lets you easily create amazing dog ecards
greetings or invitations, announce a new dog with a slideshow or e-postcard, make dog e-scrapbooks, send
dog e-birthday cards, thank you cards, and much, much more. Use it for family photos and
occasions as well.
Visit Smilebox.com and try this amazing free service today!
and not only do dog owners rave about it, but their pets seem to love it and sit still while having their treatment.
The Furminator also leaves the coat looking shiny and healthy and is amazing for keeping shedding under control.
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