Airedale Terrier
This striking, sporty dog is known as the ‘King of Terriers. With his loveable nature and large statue, it’s no wonder so many love inviting this incredible breed into their family. They are ideally suited to the active family who enjoys a good dose of exercise and fun.
Great Dane At A Glance
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Temperament | A confident and outgoing dog breed that thrives in an active environment. |
| Suitable | An energetic family who adores getting out and about. |
| Health | A healthy breed; however, like all dog breeds, the Airedale Terrier can be predisposed to specific health conditions. |
| COMMON CLAIMS | MAXIMUM CLAIM |
|---|---|
| Skin Condition Allergy | $9,110.00 |
| Arthritis | $4,929.00 |
| Ear Condition | $5,980.79 |
| Gastrointestinal Tract Condition | $3,656.18 |
| Neurolgical Condition | $4,976.89 |
| Ingestion Foreign Body or Toxin | $12,393.42 |
| Skeletal Condition | $3,331.02 |
| Fracture/Trauma | $7,039.03 |
| Skin Lumps & Bumps | $2,185.50 |
| Neoplasia | $6,488.50 |
*Pet Insurance Australia Data 2022/2023
Trainability
Being a terrier, the Airedale Terrier is a delight to train. They thrive on companionship and pleasing their owners. This makes them an outstanding candidate for obedience training and dog sports. Early socialisation is essential to prevent problems with other dogs, and as your Airedale will require a decent amount of exercise, getting along with other dogs is necessary. Enlist in a good puppy preschool and start training your pup when he arrives home. They are an independent and incredibly active dog that will need a lot of daily exercise to keep him happy and entertained. For this reason, training is a very high priority to teach your wee Airedale good manners and reliable commands.
Grooming
The Airedale Terrier has two coats: a soft undercoat and a wiry topcoat. Some owners opt to have a professional groomer help with the coat; however, brushing your Airedale twice weekly is highly recommended. They don’t particularly need clipping, but many owners do clip occasionally to help maintain their appearance and keep their coats looking their best. Grooming costs and the time required to keep his coat looking great must be considered when choosing this breed. Like with all breeds (who require lifetime grooming), getting your young pup used to being touched and brushed is paramount.
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Common Health Problems - Great Dane
The Airedale Terrier is a generally healthy breed, but like all dogs, they may be prone to specific health conditions. It’s important to note that individual dogs may vary, and not all Airedales will experience these issues. Some common health conditions associated with the Airedale Terrier breed include:
- Hip Dysplasia: Like many dog breeds, large and small, Hip Dysplasia can present itself. A genetic condition caused when the hip joint doesn't fit correctly into the hip socket. It can cause lameness and pain and lead to arthritis in the joint. Treatment typically involves surgery, weight management and medication.
- Hypothyroidism: Airedales may be prone to thyroid issues, affecting metabolism and energy levels. Symptoms can include dry skin, hair loss, weight gain, and behavioural changes. Hypothyroidism is caused when the body does not make enough thyroid hormones. Treatment involves medication to correct the hormone deficiency.
- Gastric Torsion (Bloat): Also commonly referred to as Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), this life-threatening condition commonly affects deep-chested breeds like the Airedale. It involves the stomach filling with gas and twisting, requiring immediate veterinary intervention. Surgery is usually required.
- Skin Conditions: Airedale Terriers sometimes experience skin issues, including allergies and dermatitis. Treatment will generally consist of medication, diet changes and medicated shampoos, depending on the type of condition.
- Cancer: Like many other breeds, Airedale Terriers may be susceptible to certain types of cancer, particularly those of the nose, known as nasal cancer, with some Airedales being predisposed to nasal tumours. Treatment may consist of surgery and medications.
- Ear Infections: The beautiful ears of the Airedales can make them more prone to ear infections. Regular cleaning and drying of your pet's ears after bathing or swimming are necessary. Treatment will consist of medication to treat the infection.
- Cataracts: As with many dog breeds, this common eye condition is present in some older Airedales. Regular eye check-ups are recommended, particularly if you notice any change in your dog’s vision or the colour of their eyes.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to Hip Dysplasia, this condition affects the elbow joint, leading to lameness, pain and arthritis. Treatment may involve weight management, reduction in exercise, surgery and medication.
- Patellar Luxation: This is a condition where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position, causing lameness and pain. Surgery is typically suggested to correct this condition.
- Allergies: Some Airedale Terries can also be prone to allergies, manifesting as skin irritation or gastrointestinal issues. Treatment may include diet change, medications and medicated shampoos depending on the type of allergy.
Exercise Requirements
Being a terrier, your Airedale will require a fair amount of exercise to keep him happy and out of mischief. A good run in an off-leash park and a daily walk is needed. They make lovely running companions and will adore a good swim when allowed. Being a terrier breed, they also love to dig, bark and chase. Adequate exercise will help deter this behaviour; however, be prepared to protect gardens and teach your pup the right and wrong place to dig.
Intelligence
Being a terrier breed, your Airedale is a quick thinker and will thrive with a job to do. They also love to chew. So, if you do not have the time for training and exercise, your intelligent pup will come up with their form of fun, including excessive barking, chewing and digging. Providing the correct chewing toys for the size of your pup/dog is vital to allow this natural behaviour without any personal objects becoming victims (think shoes). Consider changing your toys daily so your dog doesn’t get bored with the same old chew-things.
Family Friendly
The Airedale can be very protective of their loved ones but will adore those who own them. They are wonderfully patient with children and will become a lifelong playmate. Like with all breeds, teaching children how to behave around an Airedale correctly is fundamental, as well as teaching your pup how to interact with children correctly. Due to their size and energy levels, care must be taken with tiny children to avoid accidental knock-overs; however, the Airedale is known to be an excellent family companion. Being a terrier, they will chase smaller pets, such as cats, so training and care must be taken. When socialised correctly, they interact very well with existing household dogs.
Indoor/outdoor?
This breed will love being around their owners, so spending a lifetime outside alone is not recommended (as with any dog breed). They will need sturdy fences (and check for digging holes around the fence line). If left alone for long periods, particularly without a fun task, your Airedale will become bored and likely to become destructive. Lots of exercise and fun training alongside boredom-busting ideas (think treat balls and rotating toys) can help to combat his boredom when left at home. As with all breeds, they will require ample shade and water in the summer and a weather-protected area in the winter.
Responsible Breeding
Responsible breeding practices that screen for genetic conditions can help reduce the risk of inherited health problems in all dog breeds. In saying this, it is important to only source your new Airedale Terrier from a reputable breeding establishment to ensure your puppy is healthy. Ask all the important questions about hereditary conditions and ask to see Mum and Dad. You can also contact your local Airedale Terrier breed club and research your chosen breeder. Your breeder should have proof that they regularly test their dogs for genetic diseases and to ensure that the dogs they are breeding from have sound temperaments. It may take a little more time than a quick purchase, but it can save you and your family from the heartache and pain a sick puppy and dog can bring.
Contact PIA for Great Dane Pet Insurance
PIA is a family owned pet insurance company for Australia, and we have a long and successful history of helping owners care for their Great Danes. Contact us today to learn more about our range of simple, flexible and affordable cover options.
