Airedale Terrier
Also known as: King of Terriers
The Airedale Terrier is the King of Terriers — the largest of all terrier breeds. Originally bred for hunting otters along the River Aire in Yorkshire, they are versatile, athletic, intelligent and courageous. Used as police dogs, military dogs and hunting dogs, the Airedale is as capable as they are characterful.
About
The Airedale Terrier is the King of Terriers — the largest of all terrier breeds. Originally bred for hunting otters along the River Aire in Yorkshire, they are versatile, athletic, intelligent and courageous. Used as police dogs, military dogs and hunting dogs, the Airedale is as capable as they are characterful.
History
Developed in the Aire valley of Yorkshire in the mid-19th century by crossing the Old English Black and Tan Terrier with the Otterhound. They served in both World Wars as messenger and rescue dogs. President Theodore Roosevelt kept Airedales at the White House.
Care & Health
Hip screening is recommended. Airedales need substantial daily exercise — a bored Airedale is a destructive Airedale. They are slow to mature and have a "teenage rebellion" phase. Their wiry coat needs hand-stripping rather than clipping to maintain its weather-resistant properties.
Quick Facts
- Origin
- England
- Life Span
- 10–13 years
- Size
- large
- Hair Shed
- little
- Grooming
- Twice a week
- Good with Kids
- high
- Exercise Needs
- high
- Feeding Cost
- $20–$25 p/w
- Colours
- Tan with black or dark grizzle saddle.
Exercise
Exercise needs: high
At least one hour of vigorous exercise daily. Loves running, swimming and off-leash play in secure areas.
Health Considerations
Recommended Insurance for Airedale Terrier
Airedale Terriers are predisposed to several health conditions that can result in significant veterinary bills.
- ■Hip Dysplasia — typical treatment cost: $3,000–$8,000
- ■Hypothyroidism — typical treatment cost: $300–$800/year ongoing
- ■Gastric Torsion — typical treatment cost: $2,000–$5,000 (emergency surgery)
- ■Dermatitis — typical treatment cost: $1,000–$5,000+
A comprehensive pet insurance policy can help cover the cost of diagnostics, surgery and ongoing treatment for these conditions. Many Australian providers offer plans starting from around $30–$60 per month for larger breeds, with annual benefit limits of $10,000–$25,000.
🛡️ Don’t wait until it’s too late
Pre-existing conditions are never covered. Insuring your Airedale Terrier while they’re young and healthy gives you the broadest coverage at the lowest premium.
Get a quote — cover your Airedale Terrier from day one →Grooming
Hard wiry coat requires hand-stripping twice a year and regular brushing.