How Much Exercise Do Airedale Terriers Need? Vet-Verified Facts & Info

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History Ways to Exercise Lack of Exercise Signs Professional Training

When searching for a dog, of course you want to know about exercise requirements so that you can make sure you’re capable of providing the time and energy they need. Exercise requirements can be the make-or-break factor when you select a puppy. Some dogs need only a moderate amount of exercise to keep them happy and healthy, while others need extensive and intensive workouts to satisfy natural desires.

So, where exactly does an Airedale Terrier fall if you’re thinking about getting one of these dogs? Airedale Terriers require between 1 and 2 hours of exercise each day. This is certainly on the high end of the scale, meaning they will rely on you to ensure they have the right stimulation. Let’s explore more about this to see if this breed is a good fit for your home.

History of Airedale Terriers

To know more about exercise requirements, it’s important to understand what the breed’s purpose was in the very beginning. The curly, adventurous Airedale Terrier originated in the Aire River Valley in England. It was a combination of the Old English Black and Tan Terrier with an Otterhound.

Like many terriers, this breed is extremely skilled in hunting, primarily specializing in large rats. Due to their substantial size, being the biggest of all terrier breeds, they were eventually used for larger game as well. With their roots in hunting, they still enjoy a good run and chase today.

The 6 Ways to Properly Exercise Airedale Terriers

Your Airedale Terrier will need a proper exercise regimen that will satisfy their needs. Although they need up to roughly 2 hours of exercise per day, this doesn’t mean they need to (or should) be running for 2 hours every day! It means that they need that amount of physical and mental stimulation, and here are some ideas on how you will keep them occupied and in proper physical condition.

1. Daily Walks

An Airedale Terrier will look forward to their daily walks. They will happily explore new areas and interact willingly with other dogs. You can go on the same route daily or switch it up to keep it interesting; exploring different areas is a great way to keep their minds active, as well as their bodies.

You can break up trips into two walks per day to evenly distribute the time. However, walks usually aren’t sufficient to cover all exercise needs for the breed.

2. Dog Parks

Check out local dog parks around your area and find out what the requirements are to bring your dog to play. Some dog parks are completely free and have very few rules. Others require memberships and fees to attend.

Remember, most dog parks require that attendants are respectful, cleaning up after their dogs. Also, many require proof of vaccinations and up-to-date tags to keep other canine guests safe. Check individual park rules before visiting. Never bring your dog to a dog park if they display any aggressive behaviors.

3. Games/Toys

Airedale Terriers will love playing interactive games with their owners. Your specific dog might enjoy games like fetch, frisbee, and tug-of-war. You can also buy them a selection of different toys to see which ones they play with the most.

Some Airedale Terriers will prefer the chase while others love to chew. Once you learn your dog’s preferences, you can purchase toys accordingly.

4. Agility

Airedale Terriers will be extremely receptive to agility training because they are fit and eager to please. They have the physical makeup and energy level to stay occupied for long periods of time.

Often, local dog parks have agility equipment available if you don't have any at your home.

5. Backyard Play

Airedale Terriers would do best in a home with a large fenced-in backyard where they can run at will. This way, you could let them out to expel some energy without having to interact if you’re busy. Always make sure that your fenced-in area is secure, so your dog doesn't escape.

6. Playdates

Your Airedale Terrier will love interacting with other dogs. If you don't have another dog to keep them company, you might want to consider playdates with other pups around the neighborhood. It is important to introduce your dog to a range of dogs and people from a young age to ensure they develop the social skills needed to play with dogs when they are older.

How Will a Lack of Exercise Affect an Airedale Terrier?

A lack of exercise can complicate the relationship you have with your Airedale Terrier. Since they have such specific and intense requirements, not providing the appropriate outlets can lead to unwanted behaviors.

Anxiety

If your dog has a lot of pent-up energy, it could cause anxiety if they routinely have no outlet to express that energy. Anxiety can manifest with a list of complicated side effects.

Some of the signs include:

Excessive vocalization
Panting
Pacing
Hypervigilance
Lack of appetite

While anxiety can often be remedied with lifestyle changes, some behaviors can become more entrenched.

Hyperactivity

It is completely normal for an Airedale Terrier to be a little more hyper than some other breeds. However, if they are excessively active or seem difficult to control, it could be because they aren't getting the appropriate amount of exercise in a day.

Airedale Terriers are not the type of breed you can leave in a kennel all day. So, if no one will be home and you need to contain the dog for several hours regularly, you should consider another breed instead.

Destructiveness

Any dog that doesn't receive the appropriate amount of physical exercise runs the risk of being destructive. Usually, destructiveness comes from boredom due to lack of stimulation. Your dog might ruin your belongings, furniture, carpets, and other items around the home consequently.

In addition to exercise, your Airedale Terrier will need many toys and activities to occupy them in the home. Also, attention from their families will help to keep them busy, so remember to spend quality time with this active breed.

Aggression

Unfortunately, pent-up frustration and energy can sometimes manifest as aggression, and this can be a really difficult situation for everyone involved. If your dog starts to show any signs of aggressive behavior, talk to your vet or a behaviorist ASAP to get on top of the situation before it escalates.

If you have any concerns about your dog or their health, we recommend you contact your vet directly.

Professional Training for Airedale Terriers

During the first few years, it can be challenging to keep up with the demands of having this particular dog. If your dog is exercised correctly, it’s only half of the equation. They also need to learn manners like walking calmly on a leash, obeying basic commands, and learning their place in the home.

If you are a novice owner or don’t feel confident during training, these dogs make excellent candidates for obedience training. These dogs will turn into well-behaved dogs in no time with your consistent effort and the guidance of a trained professional.

Image By: Kseniia Kolesnikova, Shutterstock

Final Thoughts

In comparison to other canines, Airedale Terriers require quite a bit of exercise, as well as mental stimulation. They are not a great choice for people who are out most of the day. They are also not compatible with many apartment situations or with more sedentary owners who cannot keep up with the physical demands of this breed.

They also need adequate socialization with other canines and family members. Although Airedale Terriers require a lot of exercise to keep them busy, you can easily accommodate them if you have an active lifestyle.

They make great pets for families who love to get outdoors and bring their fun-loving hound along for the ride. If you start early by including your Airedale in your plans and activities, it will be only too easy to keep them satisfied.