AIREDALE TERRIER

Airedale terrier. the largest of the terriers, probably descended from the otterhound and an extinct broken-haired dog, the black-and-tan Old English terrier. The Airedale stands about 23 inches (58 cm) and usually weighs from 40 to 50 pounds (18 to 23 kg). It has a boxy appearance, with a long, squared muzzle; in profile, the line of the forehead extends straight to the nose. Its coat is dense and wiry, with a black saddle and with tan legs, muzzle, and underparts. Intelligent and courageous, powerful and affectionate, though reserved with strangers, it has been used as a wartime dispatch carrier, police dog, guard, and big-game hunter. It is nicknamed king of the terriers. See the Table of Selected Breeds of Terriers for further information.