The male has a definitely masculine appearance without being "common
or cloddy". The female has a feminine appearance without
being fine-boned or looking the least bit fragile. The ears should
be alert and the expression eager and intelligent. The tail is
carried up and adult Airedales should be self-confident, unafraid
of people or other dogs. Intelligent puppies may display a more
cautious attitude. Airedales are more reserved
in temperament than many of the other terrier breeds, but should
not act in a shy or spooky manner when approached by strangers. In North America there is a divergence of opinions on these
matters, particularly with regard to size. We wish to emphasize
that there is only one type or standard size of Airedale
Terrier.
According to the AKC standard, "Dogs should measure approximately
23 inches in height at the shoulder; bitches slightly less.
Both sexes should be sturdy, well muscled and boned ... An
Airedale much over or under the correct size should be severely
penalized [In the show ring]". The source of the diversity
of opinion seems to be rooted in history. Airedales were first
brought to this country from England in the early 1880's. Their
exploits as determined messengers in World War I, made the
Airedale a hero. Their reputation combined with their personable
temperament produced a meteoric rise in popularity, and by
the early 1920's, the Airedale was the most popular breed of
dog in America. As a consequence, breeders more interested
in money than in preservation of proper breed characteristics
and standards flooded the continent with dogs of diminishing
quality, widely varying sizes and notably inferior temperaments.
Lovers of the breed have stood by their favorite, steadily
improving breed quality over the years. Today's properly bred
and cared for Airedales have all the intelligence and ability
originally found in the breed, but in a more stylish, yet majestic
look. He is today, more worthy than ever of his title; "King
of the Terriers."
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