Prices.—First-rate puppies can be got at three and four guineas each.
The Airedale Terrier
This useful variety of dog first of all appears to have sprung up in the districts of Saltaire, Bingley, Shipley Glen, Keighley, etc., in Yorkshire, and it is to the credit of Yorkshiremen for having produced a most useful variety of Terrier. Few other breeds can surpass, or even equal, the gameness, docility, and general usefulness of these rough-and-ready, companionable Terriers.
In appearance, it would hardly be correct to speak of the Airedale as being handsome, but the weird expression upon the face, and thoughtful-looking eyes offer an irresistible charm to those who are fond of a really good pal, and inexpensive forms of sport, such as ratting, etc., on river-banks, and the like used to be called Waterside Terriers.
When looking at many of the larger Airedales, one can hardly help thinking but that the breed has been produced by crossing some Terrier, e.g. Bedlington, etc., with an Otterhound. To this latter breed many inferior specimens bear a strong resemblance, in appearance, habits, and temperament.
If properly trained, an Airedale ought to take to water like a duck, be obedient to his master's call, and form an unceasing attachment towards him.
Typical specimens should have a rough or broken coat, dense and wiry, free from curl—a common fault; be of a dark grizzle on the back from top of skull to set on of tail, likewise on the sides of the body and skull.
The remaining portions of the body ought to be a rich tan, the ears being of a deeper tan than the rest.
The weight for dogs should be from about 40 to 45 lbs., and bitches 35 to 40 lbs.