Airedale Terrier
Temperament and Behavior of the Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier is a spirited, friendly, and fearless dog. This breed of dog is a watchful four-legged friend who likes to work, is intelligent and capable of learning, but also impresses with its composure.
Many dogs don’t like going outside on a rainy day. This is not the case for the Airedale Terrier. Bad weather doesn’t bother him.
The watchful Airedale Terrier likes to announce strangers by barking. Despite this, he cannot be described as particularly happy to bark.
Attitude & upbringing
Airedale Terriers are intelligent and trainable dogs. They can be recommended for “beginners plus”. The “plus” because beginners need to know about a breed-compliant upbringing. This dog is not for absolute beginners.
The Airedale Terrier can be described as somewhat stubborn. He will therefore always try to get his way. Basic training as a companion dog is therefore highly recommended.
The training of the Airedale Terrier must be carried out consistently but with great love. Any harshness in education is inappropriate and will not lead to the desired goal.
If these points are observed, the Airedale Terrier can become a very pleasant companion.
The Airedale Terrier is a very active dog. Accordingly, his master should also be active. For lazy people who like to spend their free time on the couch, this four-legged friend is definitely not the right one.
To challenge the Airedale Terrier, it can be used in dog sports activities. He can also keep up as a jogging partner without any problems.
As a place to live, the city is really not the best choice. As already described, this dog is very active, so he needs a lot of exercises. The optimal living space is the rural area. A house with its own large garden etc. is optimal for the Airedale Terrier.
The Airedale Terrier is the largest of the terrier breeds. It is therefore also described as the “king of terriers” and is also one of the recognized service dog breeds.
Its compact and muscular physique are two typical characteristics of this dog breed. The tail is held erect by the Airedale Terrier. It used to be cut in half.
The dog, which moves very quickly, has a rough, dense, wiry coat. This is not particularly long but a bit shaggy.
Common Airedale Terrier Diseases:
- Hip dysplasia (HD);
- The Airedale Terrier’s skull is long and flat in shape but can still be considered well-proportioned.
Another interesting fact is that Airedale Terrier puppies are born with dark-colored coats. They only get their final coloring over time.
History of the Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier’s ancestors are most likely Otterhound, Gordon Setter, Bull Terrier and Back and Tan Collie.
The Airedale Terrier got its name from the region where its breeder, Wilfried Holmes, lived. He lived in the northern English county of Yorkshire, more precisely in the Aire Valley. Before the name “Airedale” was agreed upon, this breed of dog was also known as the Waterside or Bingley Terrier.
Airdale Terriers have been used in many ways. On the one hand, they were considered to be skilled duck and rat hunters, on the other hand, they were used as guardians of houses and yard due to their protective instinct.
In 1879, the Airedale Terrier was presented to the public at a show as a separate breed of dog.
Due to his extremely good search skills, he was used in India and Africa for tracking. Furthermore, he was used in the First World War as a medical and reporting dog. Due to its protective properties, it was also often found by the police.
Today the Airedale Terrier is one of the most widespread terrier species. In contrast to the past, it is only rarely used for work purposes. Rather, he excels as a loyal family and companion dog.
American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a relatively young breed of dog, but it can look back on a long history. Even if there are still many, now rather unfounded, reservations about this breed due to its sad history – its ancestors were long abused by unscrupulous people as fighting machines – the responsible dog owner will find a loyal and family-friendly companion dog here.
The breed received international recognition in 1972. Since then, the FCI has kept the American Staffordshire Terrier in Group 3: Terriers, Section 3: Bull Terriers, without a working test.
Origin and breed history
Originally from the English Midlands of the county of Staffordshire, the ancestors of the American Staffordshire Terrier were bred there as stocky, agile dogs for bloody dog and animal fights in the so-called pit, the fighting arena. Here dog against dog, dog against badger, dog against rat, always fought to the death. This cruel animal cruelty was finally outlawed in England in 1835, but it still continued in secret. As a result, some of these dogs, known as Pit Bull Terriers, Bull-and-Terriers or Staffordshire Terriers, came to the United States of America with British emigrants around 1860, where dog fights continued with them and they were used for this purpose were also bred further.
These fights, on which a lot of money was also bet, took place commercially and on a large scale, especially in the north-east of the USA in the late 19th century. They were a very lucrative business until they were finally banned there by law. Since at that time the strong, alert dogs were already valued primarily by farmers as guard dogs, breeders began to promote the positive qualities of this dog breed. They placed increased value on the appearance, size and character of their animals.
With the official recognition of the breed as the “Staffordshire Terrier” by the American Kennel Club in 1936, breeding finally separated itself from the continued illegal use of dogs, the so-called Pit Bull Terriers, for the fighting arena. The serious orientation of the breed with a special focus on appearance and family suitability began. It was not until the early 1970s that the breed was officially renamed “American Staffordshire Terrier” to distinguish it from its smaller British relatives, the Staffordshire Terriers, and has been bred according to a clear breed standard ever since.
Nature & Temperament of the American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier or “Amstaff” is a brave and fearless dog with a very lively temperament that is extremely affectionate towards its owner and family, likes to play, and be kept busy. His strongly developed protective instinct towards his “pack”, i.e. the family, the high urge to move, and his often dominant behavior towards fellow dogs require consistent and clear training of the puppy right from the start.
Early socialization with other dogs should be promoted in a targeted manner, for example in puppy play groups. The intelligent and attentive Amstaff quickly becomes an obedient and good-natured family dog that barks little and is a pleasant companion with its calm and relaxed manner. He likes to go for long walks or hikes, he also learns to walk on his bike and loves to play ball or fetch games.
The appearance of the American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier is characterized by a strong, muscular physique. The broad chest and stocky legs still appear brawny and imposing, yet these dogs are very agile and active. Males reach a shoulder height of between 46 and 48 cm with a weight of up to 30 kg. Bitches are slightly smaller and lighter at 43-46 cm at the shoulder and around 20-25 kg.
The head is broad with a medium-length muzzle, black nose, and dark, round eyes. The ears come either as a tilting standing ear or as a so-called rose ear. While cropped ears are still required by the breed standard in some other countries, this practice has been prohibited by law in Germany since 1986. The import and, since 2001, even the exhibition of docked dogs are also prohibited in this country. The tail is of medium length and is usually stretched straight back.
The Amstaff’s coat is short, hard, and shiny. Almost all coat colors are allowed, from white to gray, fawn, dark brown to black, solid, multicolored, brindle, or spotted. According to the breed standard, however, liver-colored or black with brown markings (such as the Doberman or Rottweiler) are undesirable, as well as more than 80% white (with this coat coloration there is an increased risk of genetically conditioned deafness in the dog).
Australian Terrier
What does an Australian Terrier look like?
The FCI standard describes the Australian Terrier as “one of the smallest working terriers”. At first glance, he resembles a bolder, wilder, and larger version of a Yorkshire Terrier.
The strong dog has a shoulder height of 25 centimeters and an elongated silhouette. Females are slightly smaller. The Aussie weighs around 6.5 kilograms.
The skull is long, flat, and moderately broad with a slight stop. The eyes are small, oval, and dark brown. The Australian Terrier’s ears are also small, erect, and pointed.
Originally, the tail was often docked, which is fortunately banned in most European countries today. According to the FCI breed standard, the tail of the Australian Terrier should always be set high and carried high. However, it should not be pulled over the back.
What does the Australian Terrier’s coat look like?
The Aussie has a harsh coat about two inches long with a short, soft undercoat. There is a clear frill around the neck. At this point, the fur is longer.
There are two color variants in this dog breed: different shades of blue with tan and sand-colored/red. According to the standard, shading and white markings are undesirable.
Temperament: Terrier with charm
Although the Australian Terrier is characterized by a strong personality – typically Terrier – he is sociable and adaptable.
Character: little jack of all trades
Cheerful, playful, open-minded, and always up for something together: the Australian Terrier is a likable, robust dog. He forms a close bond with his human and is open to other bipeds.
Despite its size, the Australian Terrier is confident and sometimes reckless. If he is well-socialized as a puppy or young dog, these typical terrier characteristics should not be a problem in controlled encounters with fellow dogs.
Like all terriers, the Aussie is by no means a lap dog. Because as a working dog, he needs enough head and leg work to be happy.
Education for intelligent terriers
Characterized as small and clever, the Australian Terrier quickly understands what his human wants from him. He is easy to train and likes to adapt to his owner’s everyday life, provided he can be there. Of course, it is important to take into account the typical stubborn terrier. Because the four-legged friend brings a lot of personality with him.
Since the Australian Terrier is alert and males in particular like to show territorial behavior, you should direct his barking into orderly channels from an early age.
His ancestors are gifted rat and snake hunters, which must be taken into account when running free. Mouse holes or rats can quickly make the terrier forget his good nursery.
Conclusion: friendly terrier
If you are looking for a friendly, friendly little terrier, the Aussie is a good animal choice. If dog lovers do not underestimate the work-loving four-legged friend because of his size, they will find him a wonderful companion.
Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is a breed of dog originating from Great Britain. The fluffy dogs are officially recognized by the FCI and are assigned to group 3, the group of terriers, and section 1, the section of long-legged terriers. They are classified as a breed for which no working test is required. In Germany, they are on the list of domestic dogs. The alert and courageous dogs are also known as Rothbury Terriers.
The Bedlington Terrier – Originating from Great Britain, the small to medium-sized Bedlington Terrier – also known as the Rothbury Terrier – has at first glance the appearance of a lamb-loving sheep.
His character, on the other hand, is completely different: he is one of the most active dogs of all and is by no means satisfied with a lot of rest. In addition to the great urge to move, the British hound with the thick, fluffy coat requires just as much care.
History and origin of the Bedlington Terrier
Contrary to popular belief, the Bedlington Terrier is a rather old breed, dating back to the 1780s. He originally came from County Bedlington, near the Scottish border, which also gave the dog its name.
Once upon a time, the Bedlington Terrier, which the Poodle, Whippet and Dandie Dinmont Terrier helped to create, was the favorite dog of miners as it kept rats out of their tunnels. He was also able to register the dreaded firedamp explosions in good time and thus warn the miners in good time.
It was also bred to hunt foxes, otters, and badgers. Traveling craftsmen such as scissor grinders, tinkers, or tradesmen also liked to take these dogs with them on trips and offered to use them to rid the village of rats and other annoying rodents for a fee. However, poachers and lovers of animal fights also liked this dog.
It was also used in dog racing. Over the years, the upper class of society became more and more interested in this dog and took the Bedlington Terrier as their companion dog. Through further breeding, he received an increasingly longer neck and his current appearance. Towards the end of the 19th century, the first Bedlington Terrier Club was formed in 1869 and he became a show dog.
Soon after, he also gained notoriety in Germany, the Netherlands, Canada and America. However, today he is still one of the rather unknown, rare pedigree dogs in our country.
The appearance of the Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is a dog breed recognized by the largest cynological umbrella organization, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale, with the standard number 9. It belongs to group 3, the terriers, and section 1, the high-legged terriers. Males have a shoulder height of 40 to a maximum of 44 cm, bitches from 38 to 41 cm, whereby they should have a weight of 8 to 10 kg.
Their average life expectancy is 14 to 15 years. Dogs of this breed have a sheep-like appearance, are muscular and have a pear-shaped head with strong teeth and the typical large, almost white mop of hair. The long, drooping ears have fringed tips.
The medium-length tail is pointed and must not be carried over the back. The Bedlington Terrier has a fine but muscular neck, giving it a sophisticated look. In general, the entire flat-ribbed body, which is slightly longer than shoulder height, is athletically built.
The two forelegs are far apart. The paws resemble those of a rabbit. The dense, flaky, not wiry coat is blue-grey, liver, or sandy with or without tan. Darker colors are favoured.
Nature, character and training of the Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is a very agile, wiry, dynamic and courageous dog that was originally used for hunting. And so it is not only a matter of course that he has a pronounced hunting instinct, but you should definitely give him enough tasks, even if he is not taken out hunting.
Dummy training or animation for tracking are ideal. If this breed doesn’t get enough exercise, it can easily become aggressive. Although a Bedlington Terrier looks rather gentle and calm at first glance, it hides an extremely lively and exceedingly lively one watchful dog that can jump enormously high.
Nevertheless, this spirited four-legged friend can also enjoy moments of quiet and be well-kept as a loving family dog with a close relationship to its owners. However, the prerequisites are consistent training – as with all terriers – as well as sufficient activity with and for the dog.
As a young animal, he can be extremely exhausting, as he likes to go overboard. The Bedlington Terrier is a very teachable fellow who enjoys learning. Nevertheless, he must be consistently shown who the pack leader is, otherwise he will react with stubbornness. He usually gets along very well with his peers.
Although the Bedlington Terrier can be described as alert, it is by no means a guard dog, as it is more open-minded towards strangers and even greets everyone in a friendly manner. Although he always reacts warmly to all people and is also very devoted to his family, he only accepts a pack leader, but he also shows absolute obedience to him and would even defend him to the last in the event of imminent danger.
Exercise, care, and husbandry of the Bedlington Terrier
Exercise is very important for a Bedlington Terrier so long walks and games are a must. It should be noted that this dog – originally intended for hunting – has a strong hunting instinct, which means that it must be kept on a leash, especially where wild animals are around.
Once he’s on the move and chasing something, thanks to his stamina and willingness to run, he can hardly be stopped or brought back. If the dog gets enough exercise – at least 4 times a day – it can also be kept in an apartment without a garden. However, a house with a garden in which he can frolic and let off steam is ideal.
Then he is also calm himself when he is brought into the house. He prefers a comfortable place that allows him to participate in family life. As far as care is concerned, the Bedlington Terrier can definitely be described as very care-intensive.
Ideally, he should be brushed or combed once or twice a day and trimmed regularly every year to maintain his typical appearance. Cutting the hair is best left to a professional, as the head in particular requires a great deal of skill.
Black Russian Terrier
Origin and history
The Russian Black Terrier (also Tchiorny Terrier) is a dog with an important past: it belongs to a very old breed, which was particularly valued by the Russian tsars: They defended their houses and palaces against uninvited intruders and were exceptional hunting dogs: That’s how they took not only with ordinary badgers or foxes, but even dared to approach wild boar, bears and Siberian tigers. However, interest waned during World War II and the Russian Black Terrier was threatened with extinction – until the Russian military discovered it! It was looking for a specially bred working dog that was formidable, muscular, hardy and courageous. From then on, breeding was carried out with military rigor: the state-owned kennel “Red Star” had cynologists set up a breeding program in which the Airedale Terrier, the black giant schnauzer, the Rottweiler and the now extinct Moscow retriever were crossed. The result was such an explosive mix that the Russian military immediately appropriated the Russian Black Terrier and imposed an export ban to the West. Only Finland, which had good relations with Russia, was allowed to have some dogs. Whether the Russian Black Terrier found its way to the West this way is unclear. He showed up at a dog show in Holland in at least 1980 and caused a sensation there. He has been bred in Germany since 1983, but is extremely rare because there are few breeders and consequently few puppies. He was recognized as early as the 1940s and his breed standard was renewed in 1993. Today, the Russian Black Terrier is to Russia what the German Shepherd is to the German police force.
Appearance
This dog is impressive: with a shoulder height of 66 to 72 cm for males and 64 to 70 cm for females and a weight between 40 and 50 kg, the Russian Black Terrier is massively built. His coat is black or black with gray hairs and should be close-lying and wiry. His fur is more luxuriant on his legs, his beard is brushy and rough. He has a very strong physique and massive muscles. His overall constitution is resilient and powerful. Its ears are quite small, triangular, and tilt forward. The Russian Black Terrier’s eyes are dark, small, and oval. Its paws are large and strong.
Temperament and characteristics
The Russian Black Terrier is extremely dynamic, self-confident, and spirited. A dog that knows all the waters, shows courage, and knows how to assert itself. He can scare away burglars without biting: a look into his eyes and a growl is enough. He is willing to work and a real working dog. Despite this, he is able to integrate into a family. He knows how to deal with children and defends them to death. In the evening he loves to be cuddled. As a puppy, the Russian Black Terrier is quite playful and cheeky – a very consistent upbringing is therefore a matter of course.
Attitude and care
With this size and such a lively temperament, the city apartment is almost self-explanatory. The Russian Black Terrier needs a house with a spacious garden and lots and lots of exercise. He shouldn’t be kept in a kennel. He is a real nature boy and would like to roam through woods and fields with his master. A consistent but loving upbringing is very important with this dog breed – otherwise, the Russian Black Terrier exploits weaknesses and does what he wants. He grows up quite late and needs a lot of time for his development. He should be combed and groomed once or twice a week, and regular trimming is also essential. The ears should be checked regularly for inflammation because of the thick hair on the auricle.
Border Terrier
History and origin of the Border Terrier
In the 18th century, hunters in Great Britain bred the Border Terrier solely for performance and not for appearance: when hunting foxes, the pack of Border Terriers should be able to run alongside the hunters on horseback and then crawl into the fox’s den. Border terriers are skilled specialists in precisely this area: they are fast enough to keep up with the riders and agile enough to track down foxes in their burrows. The rough coat is weatherproof and protects the four-legged friends from undergrowth during the hunt.
It is often assumed that the Border Terrier is a mixed breed. However, it is unclear where his ancestors came from. The brave terrier was recognized by the British Kennel Club as early as 1920. In 1963 it was officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).
Appearance: Robust and athletic
With the inconspicuous Border Terrier, it is usually love at second sight: at the latest with its dark, lively eyes and its skull, which resembles an otter, this dog wraps its fellow human beings around its paw. The little adventurer gets along well in wind and weather with his athletic body and thick coat of hair. The soft undercoat keeps it warm, while the wiry top coat protects against moisture and wind.
Males reach a height at the withers of between 33 and 40 cm, while females grow to about 36 cm. According to the FCI breed standard, the following coat colors are permitted in this breed:
- Red
- Wheat colors
- Grizzle with Tan, the English color designation for mottled and tan
- Blue with tan (tan)
The character of the Border Terrier: An ideal companion dog
With a Border Terrier you have a real sunshine as a companion: He is considered cheerful, playful and adventurous. In addition, he is intelligent and sociable, tends neither to bark nor to aggressiveness. The happy fellow would like to experience adventures with you and thrives in nature: he can sniff in hedges, undergrowth and trees to his heart’s content. The Border Terrier feels most comfortable surrounded by his family. His character optimally fulfills the requirements for a family dog.
Training the Border Terrier
If you show a high degree of consistency and sensitivity when training your Border Terrier, it will pay off. Although this dog is considered easy to train, it is and will remain a hunting dog. Without a leash and without basic obedience, the Border Terrier likes to disappear into the vastness of the woods – if he doesn’t quite accept you as the pack leader, he will want to assert his own mind. Therefore, you should get this dog’s hunting instinct under control, preferably when your Border Terrier is still a puppy. Beginners in particular should seek help from a dog school.
Living together: This family dog needs action!
Active owners who do a lot and are willing to let the bright fellow participate in everyday life suit the Border Terrier who loves to exercise. It is important when keeping a Border Terrier that he gets enough exercise.
The Border Terrier particularly enjoys and loves company with people – that’s why he’s popular with families with children because they keep him on his toes! Border Terrier puppies are quite boisterous at play, so children should not be left alone with the dog without adult supervision.
Employment: adventure and dog sports, please!
Don’t let the little terrier fool you! He is a working dog, a real bundle of energy and needs a lot of exercise so that he can relax on the couch in a balanced way. In addition to daily walks, you can satisfy his urge to move, especially through dog sports. The Border Terrier can be enthusiastic about many activities: Whether agility, nose work, or dog dancing – the main thing is that body and brain are used to capacity. Your Border Terrier also appreciates activities with you: this dog is a cheerful companion on hikes through the forest, jogging or riding your horse.
Grooming: A low-grooming dog
Grooming the Border Terrier’s coat requires little effort: this breed hardly sheds, and the unruly coat only needs to be brushed. The terrier goes through the change of coat twice a year – during this time its hair should be trimmed. Also, check your ears and teeth regularly to prevent inflammation and tartar.
Boston Terrier
Origin and history
The Boston Terrier is a dog breed from the USA recognized by the FCI (International Federation of Dog Breeders). It was first bred towards the end of the 19th century and was originally a cross between the now defunct White English Terrier and the English Bulldog. Later, the French bulldog was crossed to achieve some breed type improvements.
The Boston Terrier first came to Europe in 1921. While extremely popular in the US, it has long been relatively rare in this country. The spread has only increased noticeably in the last few years.
Looks
Physique
The Boston Terrier is a small mastiff-like dog that is characterized by its compact and well-muscled build. He has a short, smooth, and shiny coat with no undercoat. Its head is relatively large and square, with a flat snout. The eyes are large, dark, round, and expressive. His rather large and erect ears are particularly striking. His tail is short, tapering, but not docked. Manipulation of the rod is strictly forbidden in Germany.
Height and weight
The height at the withers of the Boston Terrier is not determined by breed standards but is around 40 cm. There are three weight classes:
Class 1: up to 6.8 kg (light)
Class 2: 6.8 kg to 9 kg (medium)
Class 3: 9 kg to 11.3 kg (heavy)
Colors
Boston Terriers come in three basic colors: brindle, black, and seal (black with a reddish tinge). The white markings on the snout, chest, and forehead are typical.
Characteristics and beings
The Boston Terrier is now kept as a companion dog. He is active, intelligent, friendly, and lively. He is not a barker, but extremely alert. He bonds closely with his family and is protective of them. Boston Terriers are small dogs with a big hearts: the Boston Terrier loves nothing more than being out and about with his people and cuddling on the couch afterward. Close family contact is very important for the animals.
The Boston Terrier likes to learn and learns quickly. Due to their extremely sensitive nature, harshness in training is not appropriate and can disturb the animals in the long term. The magic word here is “loving consistency”.
Is a Boston Terrier right for me?
Boston Terriers are very active dogs. You must therefore be given the opportunity to really work yourself out. Daily walks together, if possible with free running, as well as games with his people and with other dogs are therefore a must.
Diet
Boston Terriers are considered to be nutritionally sensitive, food intolerances are relatively common and should be clarified if there are symptoms.
Care
The Boston Terrier’s short coat is extremely easy to care for. Since he has no undercoat, it is quite sufficient to brush him with a grooming glove every now and then. Brushes with hard metal bristles should not be used as the bostie’s short coat offers little protection to the skin underneath.
A special feature are the wrinkles on the eyes and nose, which should be regularly checked and cared for in order to avoid the accumulation of dirt and inflammation. Soft facial tissues are suitable for this. Every now and then the use of moisturizing cream is recommended to keep the skin supple. As with all dogs, regular checks and care of teeth, paws, ears, etc. should be ensured.
When is a Boston Terrier fully grown?
At around 12 months, growth is mostly complete.
When does the dog become calmer?
The small power packs become quieter at around 8 years of age. However, this always depends on the individual temperament.
Are there any peculiarities when encountering other dogs?
Despite their size, Boston Terriers are very brave dogs with a lot of temperament. When meeting other dogs – especially larger ones – care should be taken that they do not overestimate themselves and rush at them wildly. It’s a matter of “slowing them down” a bit. Ideally, dog encounters are already practiced in puppyhood.
Another special feature is the very short tail, which can sometimes make communication with dog buddies difficult.
Boston Terrier as a family dog – is that possible?
Absolutely! Boston Terriers were and are bred to be companion dogs. They need a close connection to their family to feel comfortable. The Boston Terrier’s enthusiasm for children is particularly noticeable. With them, he has in common the joy of play and action. Nevertheless, as an adult, you must of course ensure that the children handle it with appropriate care.
