02 Description
Description
This article is from the Airedale Terrier Breed FAQ, by Kathy Dowd with numerous contributions by others.
02 Description
The Standard is the physical "blueprint" of the breed. It describes
the physical appearance and other desired qualities of the breed
otherwise known as type. Some characteristics, such as size, coat
quality, and movement, are based on the original (or current) function
for the dog. Other characteristics are more cosmetic such as eye
color; but taken together they set this breed apart from all others.
The Standard describes an ideal representative of the breed. No
individual dog is perfect, but the Standard provides an ideal for the
breeder to strive towards.
Because of copyright concerns over the collection of all the Standards
at any single site storing all the faqs, AKC Standards are not
typically included in the Breed faqs. The reader is referred to the
publications at the end of this document or to the Airedale Terrier
Club of America website for an explanation of the standard.
Due to the requests of the masses, the AKC has placed a condensed
version of the Standard for the Airedale Terrier (as well as the other
breeds eligible for AKC registration) on-line.
For many novice dog fanciers these standards are intimidating,
abstract, and subjective. One good way to begin to understand this
standard is to read books, such as The New Airedale Terrier,
(referenced at the end of this FAQ), and study the pictures and
drawings while reading the standard. Also, take a copy of the standard
to dog shows and watch the breed. Talk to as many breeders as
possible. Over time an "eye" for the breed will develop if you
continue to question and compare the animal in front of you against
the standard. The Airedale Terrier Club of America has a nice
pamphlet, complete with sketches that is helpful in understanding the
breed standard.
Airedale personality, as described in Your Airedale, is "cocky and
brash, as he nonchalantly goes about his business with a swashbuckling
air." He will protect his family to the death if need be. He is very
patient with children, only moving away when he tires of their rough
and boisterous play. He is very strong willed, while being gentle and
affectionate with his family. The Airedale's curiosity is such that he
will investigate any situation until he is satisfied. He is definitely
a thinker. Airedales are people-oriented dog, where his owner is,
there he wants to be.
Choosing to own a Airedale is a wonderful, rewarding decision, but
remember that a sense of humor is an absolutely necessary
qualification for an Airedale owner.
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