Health

Life expectancy: 10–13 years

Common health issues include:

• Hip dysplasia
  
  
• Hypothyroidism
  
  
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
  
  
• Skin allergies
  
  
• Occasional bloat, though less common than in deep-chested breeds
  
  

Regular vet checkups, balanced diet, and exercise keep them healthy.

Grooming

Airedales require:

• Weekly brushing to remove dead hair and prevent matting
  
  
• Hand stripping several times a year to maintain coat texture and appearance
  
  
• Regular ear cleaning and nail trimming
  
  

Professional grooming is often preferred to maintain their signature wiry coat.

Exercise

Airedales are energetic and require:

• At least 1 to 2 hours of exercise daily
  
  
• Activities such as running, hiking, fetch, and interactive games
  
  
• Mental stimulation through training and puzzle toys to prevent boredom
  
  

Without enough activity, they may develop behavioral problems.

Training

These terriers are:

• Smart but sometimes independent and stubborn
  
  
• Respond well to consistent, positive reinforcement training
  
  
• Require early socialization to ensure balanced behavior
  
  
• Enjoy learning new tricks and participating in dog sports like agility and obedience
  
  

Patience and creativity are key to successful training.

Nutrition

Feeding tips:

• Use high-quality dog food with appropriate protein and fat for activity levels
  
  
• Maintain portion control to avoid obesity
  
  
• Provide fresh water at all times
  
  
• Supplements like fish oil can benefit coat and joint health