Terrier Group
These are feisty, energetic dogs whose sizes range from fairly small, as in the Norfolk, Cairn or West Highland White Terrier, to the grand Airedale Terrier.
History
Airedale is a valley in Yorkshire, England. Its name derives from the River Aire, and it proudly boasts to be the home of the famous Airedale Terrier. Breeders in the mid-1800s wanted a larger, more powerful terrier for farm work around cattle and other large animals. Several other terrier breeds combined to create the Airedale we know and love today. The breed won a loyal following with local farmers and miners. Sporting enthusiasts would often compete with rat-hunting races using their beloved Airedales to catch vermin along the riverbanks. The Airedale was perfect for the mix of agility and strength needed to catch a river rat.
The Airedale Terrier came to North American later in the 19th century. The first member of the breed to compete is America was Bruce, an instant hit and a champion terrier on the New York circuit. The AKC recognized the breed in 1888. The Airedale Terrier Club of America began a trophy event for prize Airedales in 1910, and the competition continues to this day. After some military service in World War I, the Airedale became an invaluable resource for the police and military. As the German Shepherd and other breeds took over as the preferred choice for this type of work, the Airedale Terrier became a favorite of American families as a loyal companion animal.
