When thinking about classic bird dogs, most hunters would leave the Airedale terrier off the list. That would be a mistake.
Historically, farmers honed terriers for a specific type of hunting: vermin. And the Airedale terrier — commonly called the “King of Terriers” — is no outlier. Developed in Aire River Valley, England, the Airedale was commonly used in rat hunting competitions. This is commonly referred to as a “fur” breed, a dog bred to hunt mammals rather than birds.
But working farmers also needed dogs that could bring birds home to the dinner table. Because of this, the Airedale of today hunts both the feathered as well as the furred. And in the past few decades, the breed continues to gain ground as a better-known versatile bird dog capable of flushing, retrieving, and hunting birds both on land and water.
About the Airedale Terrier
The largest of the terrier group, Airedale tops out between 50 and 70 pounds and 23 inches at the shoulder. Its medium size mirrors that of many bird dogs and lends consistency to its 11- to 13-year-old lifespan.
Physically, the Airedale is athletically built, with a look associated more with its smaller terrier relatives than that of a pointer, spaniel, or retriever. Pert ears top an inquisitive face, and the wiry coat is always tan with black markings. The density of its coat protects the Airedale from cold conditions, and it’s hardy enough to both swim and hunt in cold conditions without issue.
The personality of the Airedale also mimics its smaller cousins. Comical, intelligent, fiercely protective, and often stubborn, the large terrier makes for an entertaining and loyal companion. Though these traits also lend to a trainable personality, bumps along the road might occasionally occur due to the innate terrier belief that it knows better than most.
Hunting the Airedale
Final Thoughts About the Airedale Terrier
