Fergus is an Airedale puppy from Delaware, Ohio and graduate of Homestead Dogs 2-week overnight puppy socialization and obedience training camp classes. Fine work, Fergus!

Airedale

Royal Flush
By the mid 19th century, the industrial revolution was in full swing in Great Britain and in the northern part of the country, the Aire Valley was a key component.

One day, a group of workers in the region set out to create a dog “in their own image”. Seemingly, they mixed and matched a buffet of breeds that may have included the Otterhound, English Black & Brown Terrier, Irish Terrier, Bedlington Terrier and perhaps a few other terriers.

Apparently, raising the quantity of small terriers to an exponential level doesn’t result in another small breed, because Airedales are significantly larger than all other terriers…earning them the moniker, the King of Terriers.

The resulting breed was also very intelligent and accumulated a variety of skills that quickly earned them another moniker, “Jack of all Trades”.

In the field, the sturdy Airedale quickly earned fame for their big game, land and water hunting skills. On the farm, they could herd and guard with the best of them. In the home, the loyal Airedale’s are great with kids and family and have a low-maintenance and seemingly low-allergen coat and typically only bark for a good reason. And as for a career, they served with distinction in WWI in the British Armed Forces. They were the first dogs used by police in both Germany and Great Britain. Airedale’s even served 3 terms in the White House with Wilson, Harding and Coolidge.

Trainability: B-

Airedale’s have a lot of energy requiring a good share of exercise. And while great with family and kids, their playfulness mixed with an apparent lack of awareness of their size and strength can be hazardous around young children and vulnerable adults.

Airedale’s are remarkably smart, patient, good natured, and eager to please, so dog and puppy training can be very effective. While providing better spacial awareness skills, dog and puppy obedience and socialization training is always good for building a young puppy into a confident family member.

Read more about Airedales at the American Kennel Club and The Airedale Terrier Club of America.