Airedale Terrier
Great Britain, Large and medium sized Terriers
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 56–61 cm
- Weight
- 20–29 kg
- Life expectancy
- 11–14 yrs
- Intelligent
- Confident
- Energetic
- Strong-willed
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier is the largest of the British terriers, originating in the Aire valley of Yorkshire. It was developed as an all-round working dog able to hunt otters and rats, and later served in police and military roles. It is a square, athletic dog with a hard, wiry tan and black coat and a long, flat-skulled head with a bearded muzzle.
Temperament
Intelligent, confident and outgoing, with typical terrier courage and persistence. Usually friendly and playful with its family but can be strong-willed. Can be boisterous when young and may be dominant with other dogs.
Exercise
Needs at least an hour or more of varied exercise daily, including games and mental challenges. It enjoys swimming and active outings.
Grooming
Wiry, dense coat that needs brushing weekly and regular hand-stripping or professional grooming to keep its texture and shape. Trim the beard and check ears.
Care & wellbeing
Watch weight and joint health, and check skin and ears regularly. Consistent training and enough activity help prevent boredom-related digging and chewing.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 24.5 kg adult- Water
- 980 ml–1.5 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,230 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing most days
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Airedale Terrier
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The largest of the terriers, developed in the Aire valley of Yorkshire, England, as an all-round working dog for hunting otters and rats and general farm duties. It was later used in police and military roles. A bold, energetic dog with a wiry, dense coat that needs regular stripping.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Skin allergies
- Hypothyroidism
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scores
- Thyroid test
Not every Airedale Terrier is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 11–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Airedale Terrier right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Airedale Terrier get?
Adult Airedale Terriers typically stand about 56–61 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 20–29 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Airedale Terriers live?
Typically 11–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Airedale Terrier need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Airedale Terrier need?
Brushing most days. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Airedale Terriers easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Airedale Terriers shed?
Very little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Airedale Terriers good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Airedale Terrier live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Airedale Terriers have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, skin allergies, hypothyroidism. Not every Airedale Terrier is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Large and medium sized Terriers
- Internationally recognised
- 1963