The tallest of the terrier breeds, the Airedale Terrier is known as the “King of Terriers”. This square, strong British breed originated in the valley of the Aire River in Yorkshire. It was first developed in the mid -19th century by local hunters who wandet a robust terrier for catching vermin and larger game such as otters. Breeders therefore crossed black and tan terriers with the Otterhound (see p,142) as well as with the Irish Terrier (see p.200) and possibly the Bull Terrier (see p.197). The crosses produced a dog with a terrier’s courage and an Otterhound’s skill in water. The breed was put to work alıng riverbanks, a practice that gave the dog its alternative namei “Waterside Terrier”. The Airedale Terrier was officailly recognized as a breed in 1878. The Airedale Terrier became an all purpose dog that could follow trails and retrieve as well as pursue small game. Farmers used the dog to herd and drive livestock and to guard property. Airedale Terriers also featured in competitive rat hunts along the banks of the Aire Rive and its tributaries. From the 1880s dog’s were were exported to the US, where they were used to hunt quarry such as raccoons, coyotes, and bobcats. The breed’s subsequent uses have included guardng, police, and military work, and search and rescue, but it is also a popular companion. Friendly, intelligent, and full of terrier characeter, this dog loves the thrill of the chase and needs plenty of daily exercise. It has a strong personality, so needs kind and assertive handling, but responds well to training. Puppy (dark brown) dog.
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