The handsome and dignified Airedale, the largest terrier breed, has a hardworking history. Developed in Yorkshire, England, near the Aire River, he is the result of a cross between the early Black-and-Tan Terrier mixed with the larger Otter-hound. He was expected to hunt down foxes, badgers, weasels, otters, and water rats.

Noble and bold, but also kindhearted, the Airedale likes to make friends with people; playing with children gives him great joy. Airedales are high-energy dogs, but they can be perfectly happy in the city if given lots of exercise. That means more than just being in the backyard with a ball and a bone: They love human company. They are also protective and like to be “top dog” in the family. For that reason, they make great watchdogs.

The Airedale has a wiry coat that needs clipping every few months; or it can be allowed to grow out into its woolly, natural shape. He is a tan dog with a dark midsection, sometimes with white on his chest.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance: Sturdy, well muscled.

Size, Proportion, and Substance: Height—males, 23 inches at the withers; females, slightly less.

Fun Facts

Airedales have great courage and have been used to hunt big game in Africa and India. They were among the first breeds used as police dogs in Germany and Great Britain. And they have been dependable message carriers in several wars, able to get information delivered fearlessly, even when injured.

Excerpted from The Complete Dog Book For Kids © 1996, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.