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Airedale Terrier

Terrier Group

Energetic, intelligent, and confident

Airedale Terrier

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Breed Overview

Airedale Terriers, often referred to as the “King of Terriers,” are the largest terrier breeds known for their versatility, intelligence, and playful nature. They can make excellent companions for active families.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Medium to Large
  • Height Typically 23 inches (male), slightly less for females
  • Weight About 50-70 pounds
  • Lifespan 10 to 13 years
  • Coat Hard, dense, and wiry outer coat with a softer undercoat
  • Color Typically black and tan
  • Grooming Moderate; regular brushing and occasional trimming
  • Temperament Intelligent, confident, and courageous. They are known for their loyalty and friendly disposition.
  • Energy Level High
  • Intelligence High
Health Needs
  • Exercise Requires regular exercise, including walks and playtime
  • Trainability Highly trainable but may exhibit stubbornness; benefits from consistent, positive reinforcement training
  • Socialization Needs early socialization, enjoys being around people
  • Grooming Moderate; regular brushing and occasional trimming
  • Health Issues Generally healthy but can be prone to hip dysplasia, allergies, and heart disease
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Generally suitable with children, making a loyal family pet
  • Suitable Living Space Does best in an active household where they can get plenty of exercise and mental stimulation

About the Breed

Airedales are versatile dogs that were once used for hunting otters and game birds. They have also been employed in military and police roles. Their intelligence and trainability make them suitable for various dog sports and activities.

History of the Breed

Developed in the mid-19th century, Airedales were initially bred by working-class Yorkshiremen to catch otters and rats. They were later used as message carriers and guard dogs in World War I.

England

Fun Facts About the Airedale Terrier

What To Expect When Caring For an Airedale Terrier

Health

Generally healthy but prone to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia, allergies, and heart issues. Regular health screenings and vet check-ups are important.

Grooming

Their wiry coat requires regular grooming, including brushing and hand-stripping several times a year. They also require regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care.

Exercise

Airedales are high-energy dogs that need plenty of exercise. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are essential.

Training

Intelligent and eager to learn but can be stubborn. Early training and socialization are crucial. Positive reinforcement techniques work best.

Nutrition

A balanced diet suits their age, size, and activity level. Regular meals instead of free feeding to prevent obesity.

Caring for an Airedale Terrier requires commitment, especially in grooming and exercise. However, Airedales make loyal, entertaining, and loving companions for owners who can meet their needs.

Airedale Terrier Common Health Issues and Recommended Test

Airedale Terriers are generally robust dogs, but like all breeds, they are prone to specific health issues. Being aware of these common conditions and the recommended tests can help you maintain your Airedale's health throughout life.

Description: A genetic condition where the thigh bone doesn't fit snugly into the hip joint, which can lead to arthritis or lameness.

Description: Airedales can suffer from various allergies, such as food allergies, contact allergies, and inhalant allergies.

Description: A disorder of the thyroid gland that can cause symptoms like obesity, lethargy, and skin conditions.

Description: They are prone to skin infections and irritations, often related to allergies.

Description: Some Airedales may be prone to heart conditions, including heart murmurs and heart failure.

Hip Dysplasia

Description: A genetic condition where the thigh bone doesn't fit snugly into the hip joint, which can lead to arthritis or lameness.

Allergies

Description: Airedales can suffer from various allergies, such as food allergies, contact allergies, and inhalant allergies.

Hypothyroidism

Description: A disorder of the thyroid gland that can cause symptoms like obesity, lethargy, and skin conditions.

Skin Issues

Description: They are prone to skin infections and irritations, often related to allergies.

Heart Disease

Description: Some Airedales may be prone to heart conditions, including heart murmurs and heart failure.

Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to catch any health issues early, and prompt attention to changes in your dog's behavior or appearance is vital. With proper care and attention to health, Airedale Terriers can lead long, happy lives as cherished members of their families.

Prescription Medication Assistance for Airedale Terriers

The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

How Much Does It Cost To Care For An Airedale Terrier?

Caring for an Airedale Terrier, like any dog, involves various expenses. The annual cost can vary depending on your location, the dog’s health, and the level of care and services you choose. Here’s a general breakdown of the annual expenses for an Airedale Terrier:

A purebred Airedale Terrier puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

Initial Cost

$800 - 1500

Potential Additional Costs:

When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Airedale Terrier enthusiasts.

Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

Initial Cost

$200 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

Choose a high-quality dog food and treats for a medium to large breed dog.

Estimated Cost

$500 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

Learn more about the best quality dog food for Airedale Terriers.

Airedales require regular grooming due to their wiry coat.

Estimated Cost

$600 - 1200

Potential Additional Costs:

If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

Airedale Terriers require routine vet visits for vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and check-ups.

Estimated Cost

$500 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your dog's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

Your Airedale will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

Estimated Cost

$100 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

Estimated Cost

$500 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

Estimated Cost

$50 - 200

Total Estimated Annual Cost:

$3450 - $7300

It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen expenses are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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