It may seem like an overwhelming task when choosing your first pet. First-time owners have to take a lot of factors into consideration when picking their first pooch, as they are a big responsibility.
Despite there being variations across dog breeds, even individual dogs in the same breed can have different temperaments. As long as you take into consideration the quirks of the breed, you should be able to make a sound choice.
Now let’s find out if an Airedale Terrier is a good choice for first-time owners.
Can First-Time Owners Get Airedale Terriers?
When Airedale Terriers are young, they are extremely boisterous. As they mature, some of this energy wanes away. However, their energy levels can still be too much to handle for novice owners.
Airedales are territorial and have intense protective instincts. They love their independence and will not often be spotted getting chummy with other dog breeds.
Although they are intelligent, brave, and under the right circumstances, quite friendly, do they make good pooches for first-time owners?
Pros
This breed does not have a complicated grooming routine. They do not shed much, and they are easy to groom. If you are someone who loves high-energy pups, this is the right breed for you. They portray confidence and have a hard-working ethic.
They are excellent watchdogs and tend to fit into family life well. Airedale Terriers carry their puppy charm into adulthood. They are good pets for allergy sufferers because of their hypoallergenic coats.
Cons
Despite their positive traits, Airedales are known for their independent streak. They can be quite stubborn and exercise a certain level of strong will if they are not properly trained.
They are an athletic breed with high energy levels. Airedale Terriers require intense physical as well as mental stimulation to keep them from turning to destructive attitudes. They have a penchant for digging up gardens, furnishings, etc.
Why Are Airedales Not Right for First Time Owners?
Airedale Terriers are intelligent and energetic dogs, but their independent nature can sometimes make them difficult for first-time owners. However, with proper training and socialization from an early age, they can make great companions. It’s important to note that Airedales require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior. So, if you have the time and energy to devote to a high-energy dog, Airedales can be a wonderful addition to your family.
Airedales do not do well in confinement. They need open space to release their energy. It is necessary to provide them with at least one hour of physical exercise followed by some form of mental stimulation.
Their hunting instincts can rise to the surface with other smaller pets. If you are a novice owner, you may not be able to handle the interactions between your Airedale and other household pets.
Airedale Terriers need an owner with a firm and confident hand. If you can handle their vigorous physical stimulation requirements and provide proper socialization and training, you can tone down their aggression and stubbornness.
Also Read: Do Airedale Terriers Smell?
Training Airedale Terriers
Although Airedales are versatile dogs, they have a strong temperament, which can make them not the best choice for first-time pooch owners. Their independent mind means they are not pushovers.
However, if you understand dog behavior and are capable of training them well, you can break through to the dog and turn them into an obedient pet. Their antics are highly likely to test any owner’s patience.
Therefore, patience and proper training are major requirements when dealing with a stubborn Airedale.
They need early socialization to prevent the formation of negative traits. It will allow them to have better interactions with people, children and other animals. Consistent training, along with positive reinforcement, is key to getting a positive result.
Airedales are so fiercely independent that they will not bend down to do anything they do not want to do. When training them, it is important to encourage and lure them to the good side with reward-based tricks.
Since their prey drive is high, they need to be kept on a leash when they are around wildlife or other pets.
Although Airedales are easier to train as puppies, they are not a lost cause as adults. With the right training method, experienced and assertive dog owners can gain a wonderful pet.
Also Read: Do Airedale Terriers Bark a Lot?
The Bottom Line
Airedale Terriers are sharp witted with bold personalities and high energy levels. They can be extremely challenging for first-time owners.
This athletic breed loves working and requires a lot of physical and mental exercise to keep their destructive tendencies under control.
They have been tagged as notorious diggers and need open spaces to move around. Although they can be trained, they require assertive owners rather than novice owners to handle them successfully.
