Airedale Terrier

Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier ( Airedale ) is a large, rough-coated working terrier developed in Airedale, Yorkshire. It was bred from the Otterhound , a dog that originated in the Aire Valley of Northern England, and crosses with other breeds around 1820 to 1860. Airedales were originally working farm dogs used for their ability to hunt and kill vermin in farms and warehouses; today Airedales excel as police dogs, guide dogs for the blind, search and rescue dogs or any job requiring an extremely intelligent dog capable of high speed work such as agility competitions. Airedales have also been very popular pets due to their distinctive looks and friendly nature. The AKC registers approximately 10,000 Airedale Terriers per year making it the 71st most popular breed in the United States, and 18th most popular in England. Airedales have been featured on postage stamps from Great Britain, and appeared as guard dogs in movies including A Dog of Flanders .