the largest of the terrier breeds - she's a bit big for a female, weighs in around 70lbs
temperment - she's a terrier - they put the "terror" in terrier... :evilgrin:
yes, they are very "active", Dax is now 7 years old and my partner has been telling me --for the past 6 years-- that they do "calm" down as they get older.... I'm still waiting
They are HEADSTRONG and require a strong and consistent training - Dax knew a few commands when my partner and I got together, but she would JUMP to greet you, be a nudge at the dinner table, and shove you out of the way come feeding time.
She is smart, so after a few weeks of "training" - she no longer jumps on me when I get home, but will do it to company (so we are still working on that.
she knows not to be a nudge at the dinner table- the trigger command here is "You are going to blow it" - meaning if she doesn't go lay down and shut up she won't get a "treat" after dinner.
She also knows "What do you do?" when I'm getting ready to fill her food bowl - this means she sits and waits
all in all - she is a sweetie, wouldn't give her up....
but for our lifestyle (pretty sedate) the mantra around the house is "NO MORE TERRIERS....NO MORE TERRIERS..."
http://www.digitaldog.com/airedale.htmlBreed- Airedale
Country of Origin- England
AKC group- Terrier
Function- hunting rodents and burrowing animals, formerly police and military work
Life span- 11-14 years
Appearance- strong, muscular, sturdy
Color- tan with darker markings of black or grizzle on sides and upper body
Coat type- hard, dense, non-shedding, wiry
Grooming- regular brushing, hand-stripping, clipping, ear cleaning, nail trimming
Height- 22-23 inches
Weight- 50-60 pounds
Activity level- very high
Watchdog- yes, very territorial
Protection- no
Intelligence- low average
Trainability- difficult to train, do not use harsh methods
Good with children?- no young children, older children ok if experienced in handling dog
Good with other pets? - high prey drive, will chase small animals
Good with strangers? - reserved, suspicious
Character - reserved, suspiciousDax is good with kids (all ages), loves the cats, very friendly, not reserved or suspicious - guess it depends on the particular breeding line Home environment - fenced yard, daily exercise, good jogging partner
Best owner - physically active, strong, confident patient leader who demands discipline and precision
Potential problems:
Behavioral: pushy,
obnoxious, destructive, noisy, restless, dominant
Potential problems:
Physical- "hot spots" (moist dermatitus), skin disorders
Recommendations: early training in obedience, early socialization with other dogs and people
Short History
This dog is known as the "King of Terriers", not just because of his large size but also because it represents some of the the finest features of this group. It is a fairly recent dog having been bred in the mid 19th Century in South Yorkshire, England. It is probably a cross between the old fashioned black and tan hardcoated northern tyke and the otterhound. It was developed because of the desire of Yorkshire sportsman who wanted a large game terrier-type dog. The Airedale has been used on great game in Africa, India, Great Britain, and Canada.
The Airedale is unbeatable for its size and weight when trained for attack and defense. It's one of the finest guard dogs and protectors of property especially from wild animals. It's a fearless dog, willing to tackle anything. During World War I , it was used as a dependable messenger dog and sentry because of its ability to withstand the pain of wounds without faltering. It has also been used for police work in Germany and Great Britain.
The coat must be shaped and trimmed frequently to keep the dog looking lean and strong. The Airedale has a dignified aloofness especially with strangers. It is a sturdy, well-muscled and well-boned dog with excellent agility, eyesight, hearing, and untiring courage. It has a sweet disposition and is known to be a faithful companion.