Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Do Airedale Terriers Shed? Vet-Approved Facts & Care Tips

Airedale Terrier on grass

Airedale Terriers are the largest of all Terrier breeds, with curly coats and strong frames. They have classic curly coats similar to those of other low-shedding breeds, like Poodles and Bichon Frises.

So, does that mean that the Airedale Terrier doesn’t shed? Although they shed, Airedale Terriers shed very little. In this article, we will discuss the care requirements, shedding potential, and other fun facts about the Airedale Terrier, so stick around.

divider dog paws 3 oct 2024

Airedale Terriers Shed Very Little

Airedale Terriers shed very little. They do still shed some, but the amount is barely noticeable. If you take care of your Airedale’s coat by ensuring they are properly brushed and groomed, you should not have to clean up loose fur very often.

Airedale-Terrier
Image Credit: PROMA1, Shutterstock

Airedale Terriers Are Considered Hypoallergenic

No dog breed is genuinely 100% hypoallergenic. Some dogs might be less irritating to allergy sufferers than others, but none entirely lack the allergens that trigger allergy symptoms in susceptible people. The allergens that cause allergic reactions in people are proteins produced by all dogs, mainly in their salivary glands, which are carried on dander (tiny skin scales) and hair.

All dogs produce saliva and dander, while the level of shedding varies. Many other dogs, such as Poodles, Bichon Frise, and Havanese, also shed less and are sometimes considered hypoallergenic; however, we now know that the level of shedding is not what determines whether a dog is hypoallergenic or not. 

Although the Airedale Terrier certainly sheds less than other breeds, they can still cause allergic reactions. 

Grooming an Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier has soft, downy fur and is relatively easy to groom. However, the Airedale Terrier‘s hair can get quite long, leading to matting and tangling if you don’t continuously care for it. Many choose to have their Airedale’s coat trimmed to keep maintenance simple. Ultimately, their overall look is completely up to the owner. You can take your Airedale Terrier to the groomer every 4 to 6 weeks or trim them at home.

Airedale-Terrier-dog
Image Credit: PROMA1, Shutterstock

Skin Issues in Airedale Terriers

Like many Terriers, the Airedale is relatively healthy. However, they can suffer from some skin conditions, such as demodectic mange (Demodex mite infestation), allergies, and skin infections.

Signs of skin problems include:
  • Scratching the skin
  • Excessive licking
  • Ear and skin redness
  • Hair loss
  • Strong odor
  • Rubbing
  • Watery eyes
  • Hotspots

PK paw divider

The 5 Fun Facts About the Airedale Terrier

If you are an Airedale Terrier fanatic, have you learned all there is to learn about this incredible breed? Whether you have an Airedale Terrier yourself, or it’s just one of your breeds of interest, we have a few fun facts that might entertain you.

1. The Airedale Terrier Is the Largest of All Terrier Breeds

You might be familiar with some of the other Terriers. The more you become acquainted with them, the more you will see how different each one is. Most are compact, small dogs with big personalities. The Airedale Terrier just so happens to be the largest.

The Airedale Terrier stands approximately 23 inches tall and varies between 45 and 70 pounds.

airedale terrier standing in the water
Image Credit: simone op den kamp, Shutterstock

2. Airedale Terriers Were Rodent Hunters

The original purpose of the Airedale Terrier was to hunt rodents, specifically rats. They were highly skilled at this task and helped ward off pests on farms. If you have an Airedale Terrier, you will see that their prey drive is still in full effect today.

Unfortunately, because they are notoriously used for hunting, they might not get along well with smaller animals. If they are raised with cats, they can befriend them, but they still have an innate desire to chase.


3. The Airedale Terrier Was a Classic Police Dog

It might surprise you that in Great Britain and Germany, the Airedale Terrier was one of the first breeds to help police task forces fulfill duties. They are highly trainable and well-mannered, so it’s no wonder they filled the role so well!

young airedale terrier dog running without leash outdoors with a boy in the background
Image Credit: PROMA1, Shutterstock

4. Airedale Terriers Require Early Socialization

Airedale Terriers are typically fun-loving and adventurous with their families, but the same sentiment doesn’t always extend to everyone. An Airedale Terrier needs to be properly socialized to avoid being a little aloof and indifferent toward strangers.


5. Airedale Terriers Bark a Lot!

If you know anything about a Terrier, you know how much they bark. The Airedale Terrier is no exception—they are highly vocal dogs that fulfill watch duty perfectly. However, if you live in an apartment complex or another area where having a loud dog isn’t satisfactory, you might choose a more relaxed, quieter breed instead.

Airedale terrier dog aggressive barking
Image Credit By: Three Dogs photography, Shutterstock

divider dog paws oct 2024

Conclusion

So, now you know that Airedale Terriers don’t shed very much. If you are an allergy sufferer and would like to live with an Airedale, speak to your doctor to understand your allergies and see if you two make a good match. Airedales are intelligent and friendly dogs, and generally speaking, they are quite healthy. 

So, what do you think? If you are considering bringing an Airedale Terrier into your home, research the breed thoroughly to ensure they fit your lifestyle and choose a reputable breeder or rescue facility.


Featured Image Credit: Lumia Studio, Shutterstock

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

logo-Pangovet
Pangovet_Sidabar_Call_v31.png

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

logo__keep-reading.svg

How Big Does an Airedale Terrier Get? With Growth & Weight Chart

You’ve just welcomed an Airedale Terrier into your life—congratulations! Now, you’re probably wondering, “How big will this little ball of fur get?” Worry...

Airedale-Terrier

Do Yorkshire Terriers Shed? Vet-Verified Health Facts & Care Tips

Yorkies are pleasantly easy to own for a broad assortment of pet lovers, partly due to their size and personality and partly because...

Yorkshire Terrier

How Much Do Boston Terriers Shed? Facts & Vet-Approved Grooming Tips

Boston Terriers are an adorable brachycephalic (flat-faced) breed that is quite popular among canine lovers. Looking similar to the French Bulldog, Bostons have...

Boston terrier posing in the park. Dog in green grass

Do Wheaten Terriers Shed? Breed Info & Care Tips

Interested in owning a Wheaten Terrier? Wheatens are excellent family dogs and watchdogs, and they do fairly well around other pets and children....

Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier standing and looking directly at camera in green grass with yellow flowers meadow.

More related

Airedale Terrier on grass

What Were Airedales Bred For? History & Origin

The Airedale Terrier is a friendly and devoted dog known for its intelligence, obedience, and love of people. This breed is perfect for...

West Highland White Terrier dog at the park

How Much Do Westies Shed? Breed Coat Facts & Care

West Highland White Terriers have long white coats that are beautiful. You might think that such a fluffy dog would shed a lot—but...

Boston terrier with a happy face and parched tongue posing

Is a Boston Terrier Hypoallergenic? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ

The Boston Terrier is a much-loved family companion in many homes. This is especially true in the US where, according to the AKC’s...

woman brushing cocker spaniel

How Much Do Cocker Spaniels Shed? Facts & Care Tips

If you’ve never had a Cocker Spaniel, you might look at their beautiful locks and think that their coat requires extensive grooming. Cocker...

Keep reading

Can Dogs Eat Black Beans? Vet-Verified Facts, Pros & Cons

Black beans are a common side dish for many meals, and it’s hard to say no to our dog’s begging eyes. Whether you’re thinking of feeding them some or they stole a bite, you’re probably wondering whether black beans are...

Can Dogs Eat Black Beans

9 Best Affordable Dog Foods for Pit Bulls in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

If you’re a Pit Bull parent, you know how strong and muscular these dogs are. They have a lot of energy, and because of their strong physique, they need food rich in protein, carbs, and omega fatty acids. Pit Bulls...

pitbull eating

Can Dogs Eat Whipped Cream? Vet-Reviewed Nutrition Facts & Info

Our dogs can eat all sorts of things we can. After all, they are omnivores just like us! However, that doesn’t mean everything we stuff in our gullet belongs in our dog’s belly—or ours, if we’re being honest. So, how...

Why Does My Dog Play With Their Food? 4 Reasons & What to Do

Finding more kibble littered around your house than in your dog’s bowl (or their belly) can leave many dog parents wondering why their dog prefers to toss, chase, bat, or even roll their food around rather than eat it. Playtime...

Australian husky tipped dog food container

Can Dogs Eat Broccoli? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

The fact that dogs are omnivorous means you’re at liberty to supplement your dog’s regular food with veggies now and again (unless your vet has advised against it). That said, it’s important to do your research first because not all...

Can Dogs Eat Broccoli

8 Best Natural Dog Foods in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

As the pet food industry changes, so do the recipes that you see on shelves. Many contain artificial ingredients that could cause significant health problems for your dog later. Many pet owners are alarmed to learn that some of the...

Beagle eating from a bowl

9 Best Dog Foods for Pyoderma in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Pyoderma is a serious skin condition in dogs. Often, it involves small pustules developing on the surface of the dog’s skin. However, there are many different symptoms, including hair loss, itching, and dry skin. Different breeds are more prone to...

shiba inu dog scratching its ear

Can Dogs Eat Palm Oil? Vet-Verified Facts & Info

You probably don’t have a bottle of it in your pantry. However, you probably consume palm oil every day. It’s big business, with global production for 2024 estimated at 80,194 million metric tons.¹ It has become widespread in a broad...

Can Dogs Eat Palm Oil