The King of All Terriers: The Airedale Terrier Breed

Terriers are among the most popular — and largest — groups of dog breeds, and the Airedale stands as the tallest and largest breed of all terriers. The Airedale terrier breed has a reputation for being uber-intelligent, very protective and wonderful family dogs. Their lineage dates back to the mid-19th century when they were bred as hunting companions in Europe and then messenger dogs during WWI (source: AKC.org). Do Airedale terriers make good pets? Short answer: Yep. Long answer: Scroll down and learn about their barking tendencies, grooming needs and other fun facts.

Do Airedale Terrier Breeds Bark a Lot?

Like all dogs, Airedale terriers bark to communicate with other dogs and their humans. Barks can indicate alarm, injury or illness, and a host of emotions, including fear and excitement. Before you decide the best approach to your curb dog’s barking, you must determine the reason behind his barks. You have a problem when your dog constantly barks while home alone or as a way to get your attention. This is often referred to as nuisance barking, and it can drive you and your neighbors crazy. The good news is you can address this behavior and help reduce the chances your Airedale terrier will continue his nuisance barking.

How to make an Airedale terrier stop barking

Airedale terriers tend to bark mostly out of boredom or lack of exercise. This energetic, rowdy breed must exercise a minimum of one hour every day when young. As an adult, the ideal amount of daily exercise is two hours, a combination of a long walk, two shorter walks, or agility training mixed in with a walk. It’s not uncommon for an Airedale terrier to be destructive when left home alone. Add that to the fact they bark when they’re bored, and you’ve got a twice-frustrated dog. That’s why mental engagement with chew toys and dog puzzle games is an absolute must. Ample physical exercise and mental stimulation will help your Airedale terrier burn excess energy and make him less likely to put up a fuss and launch into a barking frenzy. If you need to leave your Airedale terrier home alone, turn on a television, radio or smart speaker to programming that you listen to when you’re home. Although difficult for some pet owners, ignoring unwanted behavior like nuisance barking can get your point across to the intelligent Airedale terrier. Equally important is randomly recognizing and rewarding your dog with praise and treats whenever he’s quiet.

How to train an Airedale terrier to stop barking

If you hope to train your dog to stop barking, know that it will take time and patience. You’d also be wise to get everyone in your household, including regular visitors, onboard for the dog training fun. Remember how smart we said Airedales are? They’ll quickly figure out who is a soft touch versus who makes them toe the line (or paw the line). We recommend following the train, treat, repeat dog training method. First, you interrupt unwanted behavior with a distraction, such as an ultrasonic sound. Then you quickly give a voice command, such as “quiet” or “heel.” Wait for your dog to stop the unwanted behavior, then reward him with a treat. Repeat with patience and consistency.

Facts About Airedale Terrier Breed

Airedale terriers are the largest of the terrier breeds. This bold, stubborn, and determined breed is also docile and patient making them great pets for humans of all ages. Don’t be fooled though, Airedale terriers are very protective and won’t back down if they feel their home or family are threatened. Full of energy, Airedale terriers love to play with their family members and benefit from several walks a day. While this breed plays well with children, supervision is a must when Airedale terriers interact with toddlers or small children, as the breed’s strength and loud personality could lead to accidents.

Here are a few quick Airedale terrier info tidbits:

Size: Airedale terriers are medium-sized dogs that grow up to 23 inches in height and weigh 50 to 70 pounds.
Life expectancy: Airedale terriers live an average of 11 to 14 years.
Coat: Airedale terrier coats are dense and wiry and tan with black markings.
AKC group: Airedale terriers belong to the AKC terrier group.

Are Airedale Terriers Easy to Train?

Obedience training is highly recommended because of the Airedale terrier’s size, strength, and boisterous personality. At the very least an Airedale should learn basic commands, including come, sit, and stay. Rambunctiousness aside, this breed is highly intelligent and eager to please, which may make training easy. Positive reinforcement training goes a long way, so be sure to provide plenty of praise and treats. Offering a variety in your training sessions will prove more successful as Airedale terriers can get bored with repetition. However, you must practice patience and consistency.

Do Airedale Terriers Need Grooming?

The Airedale terrier’s short, wiry coat requires brushing two to three times a week. This routine grooming will help distribute the skin’s oils, keep the coat healthy and looking good. A plus to regularly brushing an Airedale terrier is it will remove loose, dead hairs that otherwise would shed on your clothes, furniture, or floors. Loosen matted hair with your fingers, then work apart with a comb. Airedale terriers require a full grooming session three or four times a year, which can be completed DIY or through a professional groomer. These sessions need to include bathing, brushing, and stripping or clipping the Airedale’s coat.

What If My Breed Is an Airedale Terrier Mix?

This intelligent, outgoing, and confident breed is a smart choice for breeding mixes. Since you never know what you’re going to get with a mix, it’s essential you research the parent’s genetic strengths and weaknesses. One thing’s for sure: An Airedale terrier mix will make an adorable, loveable companion. Here are some popular Airedale terrier breed mixes:

Airedale shepherd — Airedale terrier + German shepherd
Airedoodle — Airedale terrier + poodle
Chidale — Airedale terrier + Chihuahua
Goldendale — Airedale terrier + golden retriever
Lab’Aire — Airedale terrier + Labrador retriever
Schnairedale — Airedale terrier + schnauzer
Sealydale terrier — Airedale terrier + Sealyham terrier