ATerrier
Breed Guide

Terrier

Airedale Terrier

“King of the Terriers.”

The 'King of Terriers' — a versatile, wiry-coated working dog with a bold spirit.

Add My Dog Photo Gallery

Size

Large

Weight

50–70 lb

Lifespan

11–13 years

Energy

High

Grooming

High

At a Glance

Quick Stats

Group

Terrier

Size

Large

Height (M/F)

23 in / 22 in

Weight (M/F)

50–70 lb / 40–55 lb

Lifespan

11–13 years

Exercise Needs

High

EnergyHigh
TrainabilityIntermediate
GroomingHigh
SheddingLow
ExperienceIntermediate

The Breed

Overview

Developed in Yorkshire's Aire Valley to hunt rats and otters, the Airedale later served in war and police work. Its wiry coat, versatility, and bold spirit earned it the title 'King of Terriers.'

Origin

England (Aire Valley)

Original Purpose

Hunting rats and otters, later war and police work

Temperament

Bold, intelligent, loyal, energetic

Best Known For

The 'King of Terriers' — a versatile, wiry-coated working dog with a bold spirit.

Character

Temperament

Airedales are typically bold, intelligent, and loyal. They are the largest terriers, with a wiry coat and a long 'king of terriers' head. They are versatile workers and devoted family dogs with a stubborn streak.

Affection & Family

Devoted and loyal to the family.

Independence

Bold, intelligent, loyal, energetic

Social Behavior

Variable — can be scrappy; socialize early.

Protective Instincts

Bold, intelligent, loyal, energetic

With Children

Typically good with children.

With Other Dogs

Variable — can be scrappy; socialize early.

Movement

Energy & Exercise

Needs an hour-plus of vigorous daily exercise — walks, play, and work. They are energetic and intelligent.

Recommended Activities

ObedienceAgilityLong walksHikingFetchTrail walksHunting

Partnership

Training

Smart but stubborn and independent; need patient, consistent handling. They think for themselves.

Trainability

Intermediate

Experience Level

Intermediate

Coat Care

Grooming

A wiry coat that needs regular hand-stripping or clipping — high maintenance. They shed little.

Grooming Needs

High

Shedding

Low

Wellness

Health

Watch for hip dysplasia, eye conditions, and skin issues. This guide is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for veterinary advice.

Every dog is an individual. This guide is general and educational — not a diagnosis or guarantee. Always consult a veterinarian for breed-specific or personal health concerns.

Heritage

History

Bred to hunt and later serve in war and police work, the Airedale's versatility and courage still suit obedience, agility, and an active family life.

Origin

England (Aire Valley)

Original Purpose

Hunting rats and otters, later war and police work

Lifestyle Fit

Best For

HIGH ENERGY
FAMILIES
ACTIVE OWNERS
HIKERS
HIGH GROOMING
WORKING

Apartment Suitability

Possible with adequate exercise.

Yard Requirements

A fenced yard is recommended.

Real WagLine Dogs

Meet Airedale Terriers on WagLine

No WagLine dogs of this breed yet.

Be the first Airedale Terrier on WagLine.

Add your dog to the breed hub and start sharing adventures with owners of the same breed.

Add My Dog

Discovery

Find Airedale Terriers near you

Discover WagLine dogs of this breed around your area. Only locations owners have chosen to share are shown — never exact private addresses.

Find Near Me

Breed Community

Airedale Terrier Community

Join 0 members following the Airedale Terrier community. Share adventures, training tips, and stories with owners of the same breed.

0

Members

0

Posts

0

Dogs

Breed Posts

From the Airedale Terrier community

View all

No posts yet

Be the first to share a Airedale Terrier post — adventures, training, or a tip.

On WagLine

Popular Activities

Most popular with Airedale Terriers on WagLine.

01Obedience
02Agility
03Long walks
04Hiking
05Fetch
06Trail walks
07Hunting

Based on structured breed recommendations for now — these will reflect real WagLine activity as the community grows.

More To Explore

Related Breeds

More breeds from the Terrier group.

JTerrier
Terrier

Jack Russell Terrier

Small

Energy: Very High · 1 WagLine dog

A small, fearless earthdog with boundless energy and a big-dog attitude.

View Breed Guide
ATerrier
Terrier

American Staffordshire Terrier

Medium

Energy: High · 0 WagLine dogs

A stocky, powerful, people-loving terrier with courage and a soft heart for family.

View Breed Guide
STerrier
Terrier

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Small

Energy: High · 0 WagLine dogs

A compact, muscular 'nanny dog' — brave, affectionate, and devoted to family.

View Breed Guide

The Directory

Find a reputable Airedale Terrier breeder

Search AKC-registered, health-tested breeders for the Airedale Terrier in your area.

Search Breeders

WagLine

Know Your Breed. Meet Your Dogs.

Add your Airedale Terrier to WagLine and join a community of owners who share your breed.