The stubbornness and reasonable ferocity of the terriers are well-known around the world and this group just happens to have a leader. By saying this, it doesn’t mean that this pack leader is the most stubborn and the most vicious. Only, when it comes to size, usefulness, intelligence and devotion, this particular breed tops it all.

The Airedale Terrier is the breed tagged as the King of Terriers and in all its ways, one can say that it is indeed kingly and majestic. Originally, this breed was developed as working dogs. As time went on, new skills have been discovered in this dog and these have earned him another accolade as one of the most versatile breed of dogs.

The Airedale Terrier came from the valley of Aire, England during the 19th century. The breed was the result of cross breeding between small terriers and Otterhounds by the Yorkshire men of the area. The result of this effort was the Airedale that possesses the terriers’ ferocity and keen hunting instincts and the Otterhounds’ magnificence in the water.

The first years of this breed revolved around tasks such as vermin and bird hunting, otter catching and shot game retrieving. Inside the home, it was the very reliable companion, devoted pet and the outstanding watchdog. During World War I, however, the breed became more than just working dogs because they were enlisted to become instruments of peace and triumph.

During the war, the Airedale became the prized police dogs and military dogs of many forces. Great Britain and Germany are some of the first countries to have acquired the help of the Airedale for their operations. Historically, the Airedale became excellent messengers, guard dogs and medics to name a few.

Being a war messenger, the Airedale became very admirable as it delivers dispatches even if its severely wounded from the battles. Many dying soldiers were also rescued among the dead in the battlefield because of this dog’s accurate sense of smell. As a guard, the Airedale is courageous and would stand its ground against injustice therefore it became excellent post watchers during the war.

These successes of the Airedale werent kept from the masses and so it became popular among citizens including presidents Woodrow Wilson, Warren Harding and Calvin Coolidge. People also added the title King of Hearts to this brave and devoted war hero and up to this time, the title remains unchallenged. Moreover, since the war ended, the Airedale has been rounding up the dog sports circuit and has won many awards since then.

The Airedale is the largest of all terriers and it has stringy and rough over coat and smooth undercoat. Another distinction in its physique is its densely bearded snout and long hair- covered legs. Being its natural self, no one can dispute the title of the Airedale because disposition-wise and stance-wise, it is innately regal and magnificent.

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