Airedales 101

Terrier group

Take all the attitude of the smaller terriers and upsize it to get "The King of Terriers," the Airedale. This sharp-looking dog enters every situation with a "look at me" strut and an independent spirit. They are smart and determined and do best with families that have both experience with terriers and a sense of humor.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about Airedales

Nothing gets by an Airedale

Energy level
Energy LevelEnergy Level
Bark level
  • bark-very-vocalVery vocal
  • bark-talkativeTalkative
  • bark-as-neededAs needed
Size
23 to 23 inches tall
Group Size Large
Lifespan
11 to 14 years
020
Weight
50 to 70 lbs
0150

We want to see pictures of your Airedale!

Tag @NationwidePet on social media!

My pet’s health plannerSM

Mature adult Airedale

5 years to 7 years

Risk level for common Airedale conditions

risk-level-bar

Hip dysplasia

risk-level-bar

Valvular heart disease

risk-level-bar

Trauma

Senior Airedale

8+ years

Risk level for common Airedale conditions

risk-level-bar

Splenic cancer

risk-level-bar

Valvular heart disease

risk-level-bar

Kidney failure

Airedale puppy

0 to 9 months

Risk level for common Airedale conditions

risk-level-bar

Gastroenteritis

risk-level-bar

Conjunctivitis

risk-level-bar

Urinary tract infection

Young adult Airedale

10 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Airedale conditions

risk-level-bar

Hip dysplasia

risk-level-bar

Foreign body ingestion

risk-level-bar

Trauma

Mature adult Airedale

5 years to 7 years

Risk level for common Airedale conditions

risk-level-bar

Hip dysplasia

risk-level-bar

Valvular heart disease

risk-level-bar

Trauma

Senior Airedale

8+ years

Risk level for common Airedale conditions

risk-level-bar

Splenic cancer

risk-level-bar

Valvular heart disease

risk-level-bar

Kidney failure

Airedale puppy

0 to 9 months

Risk level for common Airedale conditions

risk-level-bar

Gastroenteritis

risk-level-bar

Conjunctivitis

risk-level-bar

Urinary tract infection

Young adult Airedale

10 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Airedale conditions

risk-level-bar

Hip dysplasia

risk-level-bar

Foreign body ingestion

risk-level-bar

Trauma

Airedale Terrier image health planner

Nationwide can help you save on your Airedale Terrier's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.

Get your Airedale Terrier’s health information in a free report

Airedale Terrier image introduction

The Airedale has been used both in police work and as a military messenger and sentry dog, although the vast majority are now kept as pets.

Airedale Terrier coat care and colors

The wiry coat of the Airedale requires regular brushing to help remove any loose or damaged fur. While the Airedale Terrier, as with the small wire-coated terriers, is traditionally and painstakingly "hand-stripped" of their outer coats, this is rarely done outside of the show world these days. For easy care, many pet Airedales are kept clipped. Acclimate to nail trims early to prevent future battles.

How often should I bathe my Airedale Terrier?

Airedale Terriers can be bathed monthly, weekly or as needed (if they roll in mud, for example!). Use a pet-specific shampoo and conditioner or an all-in-one product. If your dog’s coat or skin isn’t looking healthy, check with your veterinary healthcare team to see what might be causing the problem.

What type of brush should I use on my Airedale Terrier?

A metal pin brush, slicker and metal comb will take care of your Airedale's coat.

Do Airedale Terriers need to be hand stripped?

For the show ring, Airedale Terriers are hand-stripped, a tedious and time-consuming task. Most pet Airedales have their coats clipped short for ease of maintenance.

Airedale exercise & training

Loves walks

Exercise level

The Airedale makes an ideal running companion, but will also be happy with long, brisk daily walks.

Independent study

Trainability

Airedale Terriers are intelligent dogs who generally prefer to make their own decisions. An early start to training and socialization is advisable, as is developing consistent house rules and sticking to them. With positive training, this is a breed that can do well in a variety of canine sports.

Airedale fun facts

Top girl names for Airedales

100%

of Airedales are female

0%

of Airedales are male

Top boy names for Airedales

Nationwide loves Airedale Terriers of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Airedales

Best. Airedale Terrier insurance. Ever.SM

  • Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
  • Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
  • Cancel at any time, risk-free