by Troy Russo

The stubbornness and reasonable ferocity of the terriers are well-known around the world and this group just happens to have a leader. By saying this, it doesn’t mean that this pack leader is the most stubborn and the most vicious. Only, when it comes to size, usefulness, intelligence and devotion, this particular breed tops it all.

The Airedale Terrier is the King of Terriers and many can attest that it is stately and regal in a lot of aspects. This breed is well-taken care of today but originally, they were used as working dogs in 1800s England. With the progress of time, many skills and uses have been discovered to be lying dormant inside this breed.

The breed was first developed in the 1800s in a region called valley of Aire in England. The inhabitants, called Yorkshire men, cross-bred certain types of small terriers with the larger Otterhounds with the purpose of producing a dog that has the keen senses of a terrier and the superb water skills of the Otterhounds. As a result, the Airedale became a dog of excellent terrier hunting instincts and Otterhound water expertise.

During the first years of its existence, the Airedale Terrier worked as rodent and bird hunter, otter catcher and game retriever. For the family that owns it, it served as a reliable companion and, because it possesses the natural traits of a terrier, became a superb watchdog. The breed wasn’t really popular until the outbreak of World War I when it was discovered that it can be of great use in the battlefields.

During the war, the Airedale became a military dog, peace keeping aid and many other positions in the armed forces and medical organizations. Two great nations, Great Britain and Germany, became the first two countries to use the Airedale as their police and military dogs. All in all, the breed served as guards, messengers and ambulance during the chaotic years of war.

Being a war messenger, the Airedale became very admirable as it delivers dispatches even if its severely wounded from the battles. Many dying soldiers were also rescued among the dead in the battlefield because of this dog’s accurate sense of smell. As a guard, the Airedale is courageous and would stand its ground against injustice therefore it became excellent post watchers during the war.

These successes of the Airedale werent kept from the masses and so it became popular among citizens including presidents Woodrow Wilson, Warren Harding and Calvin Coolidge. People also added the title King of Hearts to this brave and devoted war hero and up to this time, the title remains unchallenged. Moreover, since the war ended, the Airedale has been rounding up the dog sports circuit and has won many awards since then.

The Airedale is the biggest of all terriers and possesses a double coat that is course and wiry on the outside yet smooth and fine underneath. It also possesses a distinct densely coated beard and a densely and longer-haired legs. The Airedale Terrier is indeed a true King because not only has it shown leadership in the most difficult of times but everyday, until now, it remained regal and magnificent in its actions and physique.

About the Author:
Know lots of helpful information about your favorite Airedale Terrier from writer Troy Russo’s website. He is an avid breeder of Airedale Terriers and he would like to share his discoveries to you!

Related posts:

  1. Most Loyal and Sturdy Companion: Pit Bull Terrier
  2. The Favorite Pet Of The Gentry, The Bull Terrier
  3. Border Terrier: The Coarse Coated Breed From The Scottish-English Borders
  4. Pit Bull Terrier: The Loyal Companion

Tagged with: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Filed under: Dogs

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!