The Airedale Terrier is an intelligent and playful dog breed. They are capable working dogs and are excellent sporting dogs. Airedale Terriers are a sturdy, medium-sized dog breed with an athletic build and plenty of energy to match. Here are a few more facts about Airedale Terriers:

1. They Are Known as the “King of the Terriers”

The Airedale Terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888 and is part of the Terrier Group. They are called the “King of the Terriers” because they are the largest dog breed in the Terrier Group. These medium-sized dogs stand between 22 and 24 inches tall at the shoulder and usually weigh between 50 and 70 pounds on average once they are fully grown.

2. Airedale Terriers Are Capable Working Dogs

Although they are part of the Terrier Group and are an excellent sporting dog, the Airedale Terrier also makes a very capable working dog. Although they can be stubborn and are one of the most independent dog breeds, they are also highly trainable and capable dogs that excel at a wide variety of activities. They were originally bred to chase down and catch otters and rats in the 1800s, but have served in several other job capacities throughout history.

During World War I, they were used as military dogs and messengers for the British Army. In both Germany and in Great Britain, the Airedale Terrier was one of the earliest dogs to serve as police dogs. They have also been used as search and rescue dogs. In fact, they were one of the first dog breeds to serve in that capacity! They are even considered one of the best dog breeds for farms too!

3. They Are Prone to Barking

As terriers with a lot of energy, a high prey drive, and a protective instinct, Airedale Terriers can be prone to barking. They will often bark to alert you of animals, people, and other things on and near the property.

Because their barking is rooted in instinct, you won’t be able to stop it completely. But, you can train your dog to stop barking early on to redirect it, make it manageable, and keep it from becoming a nuisance behavior.

4. Airedale Terriers Used to Be One of the Most Popular Dog Breeds

Although they are still a popular dog breed, the Airedale Terrier used to be one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. They’re even among some of the popular presidential pups. Three successive presidents, Woodrow Wilson, Warren Harding, and Calvin Coolidge, all owned Airedale Terriers.

Aside from U.S. Presidents, there have also been other notable Airedale Terrier owners. John Wayne had an Airedale Terrier when he was young. John Steinbeck also had an Airedale. Airedale Terriers still top the list of most popular show dog breeds.

5. Their Facial Hair Serves a Purpose

Airedale Terriers are known for their distinct two-tone tan-and-black coats and their beards and mustaches. Although their beard and mustache help give them a distinctive and distinguished look, they also serve a purpose.

This facial hair kept twigs, burs, and other debris from getting stuck to their face. This kept things away from their nose and mouth and prevented interference while they were tracking and chasing game while out on a hunt.

6. Airedales Tend to Like Water

In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make good running partners, Airedale Terriers are also great swimmers. Although individual dogs will vary, overall, Airedale Terriers tend to like water. This makes swimming and playing in water great low-impact activities for your Airedale Terrier when they are a puppy and throughout their life.

Once they are fully grown and cleared by the vet for higher impact activities, then you can try a variety of sporty things that an Airedale is sure to excel at. Their prey drive and affinity for the water can make them a great candidate for dock diving. But, until they are fully grown, it’s best to keep things low-impact to avoid damaging developing bones and joints.

Is an Airedale Terrier Right For You?

These are just a few facts about Airedale Terriers. These dogs tend to be a good fit for families with an active lifestyle. They will be happy as long as they get to spend time with their family and have some room to run.

If you think this dog breed could be the right fit for you and your family, learn more about the breed, and then check out the available Airedale Terrier puppies. Who knows? You could end up finding the perfect addition to your family!