10 Reasons Airedale Terriers Might Be the Perfect Family Dog

Quick Take

• Airedales are labeled family dogs, but there's a specific type of family they're actually wrong for. Most people don't find out until it's too late. See which families struggle →
• Their guarding instinct can be both their best trait and their biggest liability. Whether it becomes one or the other comes down to one critical factor. Explore their guarding instinct →
• Most people worry about shedding and grooming with a dog this size, but Airedales may surprise you. See the grooming reality →
• Experienced dog owners train Airedales with relative ease, yet first-timers often struggle with the exact same breed. This article explores why the gap is so wide. Find out why experience matters →

Airedale terriers are the largest terrier breed, known for their long heads with little beards, long legs, and dense, wiry coats of tan and black. Like all terriers, these dogs can be determined and stubborn, but they are watchful guardians and friendly companions. They can make wonderful dogs for the right family, but raising an Airedale puppy takes commitment and consistency. If you’re considering adopting an Airedale terrier, here are 10 reasons why this breed might be the perfect family dog for you.

#1: You Have Plenty of Time for a Dog

Airedale Terriers are great family dogs for those who have plenty of free time to dedicate to training, exercise, and mental enrichment. These dogs are intelligent and active, and become bored easily. Leaving your Airedale Terrier at home for long periods will likely lead to naughty behaviors such as destructive chewing or excessive barking. Families are a great fit for these dogs when everyone is involved in their care, so the whole family can work together to meet their needs.

#2: You Have an Active Family

These bright working dogs need plenty of activity in their day and aren’t for people with sedentary lifestyles. They need several walks each day in addition to playtime in the backyard or living room. If your family loves exercise or outdoor activities and you want a canine companion to tag along, this may be the right breed for you.

#3: You’ve Had Dogs Before

Airedale Terriers aren’t typically seen as “beginner dogs.” They’re smart and easy to train for those with experience but can be difficult dogs for first-timers. This is because they can be very rambunctious, as well as stubborn, and you’ll need to know how to channel that energy appropriately. You’ll also need to know how to read dog body language and how to handle inappropriate guarding tendencies should they arise, as Airedales have very strong guarding instincts.

#4: You Have Older Children

Airedales tend to be bouncy and energetic, especially while they’re young. As medium-sized dogs, they can reach up to 23 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 50-70 pounds. Although they are known to be patient with young children, they can easily knock little ones over in their enthusiasm. Interactions should be well-supervised. Families with older children are better-suited to these dogs’ high energy levels.

#5: You Don’t Have Smaller Pets

Some Airedales do live successfully with smaller animals such as cats or smaller dogs. However, this poses a risk due to their prey drive and hyperactivity. It’s best for them to live with other dogs of their size or in a single-pet household. Many of these dogs will chase smaller animals, especially those that run from them. Never allow your dog to interact with small prey animals such as rabbits or guinea pigs, and keep them on a leash outdoors to prevent them from chasing wildlife.

#6: You Have a Large, Fenced Yard

It’s much easier to care for an Airedale Terrier if you have a large, enclosed space for them to run. Families living in apartments will likely struggle to keep these dogs happy. Keep in mind that the yard alone won’t exercise your Airedale for you, but it’s a great help. You’ll still need to get out there with your pup and engage in games and activities to get them moving. One of the top benefits of a fenced yard is that Airedales can run at their full speed, which is faster than humans can keep up with. Stretching their legs like this is very good for channeling their energy.

#7: Airedale Terriers Are Smart and Relatively Easy to Train

These intelligent pups can learn just about anything, from dog sports to service work. While their energy and guarding tendencies present some challenges, Airedales are relatively easy to train compared to many other breeds. Consistency is important, but varied training sessions work better than repetitive ones, as these dogs can become easily bored. Experts also recommend challenging toys to keep your dog mentally stimulated.

#8: They Bond Closely With Family Members

With proper socialization as puppies, Airedale terriers form strong bonds with their families. These pups are loyal, affectionate, and patient with their humans. They may bond more closely with one particular family member, but they are happy to spread the love around.

#9: They Shed Little and Their Coats Are Low Maintenance

Airedales have short, wiry coats. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Airedale Terrier fur requires hand-stripping (plucking out dead fur) or clipping three or four times a year, and brushing once a week. They don’t shed a lot, either, especially when you keep up with their grooming needs. Their fur is long enough to mat, which can be painful for the dog, so skipping a week of brushing isn’t recommended.

#10: They’re Protective

Although we’ve talked about the negative side of Airedale terrier guarding instincts, it’s also nice to have a family dog that’s protective of you. These pups are alert guardians of their home and humans. Well-socialized Airedales will know when guarding is appropriate, and won’t react to non-threats such as a stranger walking past you in public.