The Airedale Terrier is the largest of the Terrier breeds. It was first bred in the Aire Valley, in Yorkshire, England in the early 19th Century. The Otter hound was crossed with the now extinct Old English Black and Tan Terrier. This produced an intelligent working dog, guard dog and pet. This cross between the breeds produced a terrier who is more 'relaxed' in temperament than the average terrier.

Airedales are now found all over the world.

Food

Airdales do well on high quality foods. The Airedales at Bingleydale are fed on the 'BARF' diet which mainly consists of meaty bones and raw food. This is the closest diet to what the dogs would receive as a natural diet in the wild.

Grooming

If you intend to show your dog or bitch then they will have to be 'stripped'. There are many good publications which explain this process.

If you intend your Airedale to be a pet, then grooming can be done by clipping, which is much easier and quicker, but does not produce the rich colour when stripped.

Housing

Airedales prefer to be with their human families but also need an area to romp and play. A fenced area is needed for exercise and play, while after play, they are ready to make great house dogs. Airedales love digging. Keep this in mind when preparing an exercise area.....away from your favourite plants!