Airedale Terriers & Shedding: How To Stop Them From Shedding Excessively?

Thinking about an Airedale terrier? Then you're probably wondering how much this breed sheds and how much grooming it needs.

How much do Airedale terriers shed? Airedale terriers are a low-shedding breed. Their wiry coat sheds only occasionally, but it still needs weekly brushing and regular full grooming to stay tidy and mat-free. Expect a little more loose hair at seasonal changes, especially spring and fall.

Here's what to expect and how to keep loose hair under control.

Do Airedale Terriers Shed?

Yes, Airedale terriers shed, but not much. The American Kennel Club rates the breed's shedding as occasional.

Airedales have a hard, wiry outer coat and a softer undercoat. Dead hairs tend to stay caught in the coat until they're brushed or stripped out, so you'll find less hair on your furniture than with many breeds.

How Much Do Airedale Terriers Shed?

Because the coat is dense, many people expect an Airedale to shed heavily. That isn't the case.

The AKC's Airedale Terrier profile says the short, wiry coat needs relatively little maintenance. Weekly brushing removes dead hair that would otherwise end up around the house.

The AKC also notes that some people with dog allergies find they can live with a well-brushed Airedale without symptoms. That isn't a guarantee: no dog is completely allergen-free, so spend time with the breed before you commit.

You may see a bit more hair on couches and carpets during seasonal coat changes. Brushing more often during those weeks keeps it manageable.

The Airedale is a good choice for people who want a medium-to-large dog that doesn't leave much hair around the house.

When Do Airedale Terriers Shed The Most?

Like many breeds, Airedales tend to lose more coat in spring and fall as their undercoat adjusts to the season.

During these weeks, brush a few times a week to pull out loose undercoat before it falls out on its own.

Don't bathe them often. Frequent baths soften the harsh terrier coat and dry out the skin. Bathe only when your dog is dirty or as part of a full grooming session.

How To Reduce Shedding Indoors?

There are several simple ways to keep Airedale hair under control at home.

Brush Your Airedale Terrier’s Hair

Weekly brushing is the most effective way to cut down on loose hair. If you find mats, break them up with your fingers and tease them apart with a comb, as the AKC suggests.

A slicker brush and a metal comb are the basic tools for a wiry coat.

Bathe Your Airedale Terrier

Bathe your Airedale only when needed. Overbathing softens the wiry coat.

Use a gentle shampoo made for dogs. If your dog's skin is itchy or flaky, ask your vet before switching products, since itching can be a sign of allergies or parasites.

Get Regular Full Grooming

The AKC recommends a full grooming three or four times a year, where the dog is bathed, brushed, and either hand-stripped or clipped. You can do this yourself or use a professional groomer.

Hand-stripping removes dead hair and keeps the coat's harsh texture and rich color. Clipping is easier, but it softens the coat over time.

Cover Your Furniture And Other Things In Your House

If you don't want dog hair on your furniture, use washable covers on sofas and beds.

A seat cover for your car helps too if your Airedale rides with you often.

Vacuum Often

Vacuum regularly, especially during seasonal coat changes. A vacuum with a pet hair attachment makes the job easier.

Give Your Airedale Terrier A Healthy Food

If your Airedale is shedding far more than usual, something else may be going on. Poor nutrition, allergies, parasites, stress and some illnesses can all cause excess shedding or bald patches.

Feed a complete and balanced dog food, and see your vet if shedding seems abnormal.

Airedale Terrier Puppies Shedding?

Airedale puppies are born with a soft puppy coat. As they mature, it's gradually replaced by the harsher adult coat.

During this change you'll notice more loose hair than usual. Regular brushing makes the transition easier and gets your puppy used to grooming.

Start short, positive grooming sessions early so your Airedale learns to enjoy them.

Other Related Questions

Below are answers to other common questions about Airedale terriers.

Are Airedale terriers hypoallergenic? No dog is truly hypoallergenic. The AKC notes that some people with dog allergies can share a home with a well-brushed Airedale without symptoms. Reactions vary from person to person, so spend time with the breed first.

How big do Airedale terriers get? The AKC lists Airedales at about 23 inches tall and 50 to 70 pounds. They are the largest of the terriers. Their life expectancy is 11 to 14 years.

Are Airedale terriers high maintenance dogs? They are moderate. Airedales need weekly brushing, full grooming a few times a year, and plenty of exercise and mental activity. They are energetic and clever, so they do best with active owners.

Do Airedale terriers have double coats? Yes. Airedales have a hard, wiry outer coat over a shorter, softer undercoat. The classic color is a black or grizzle saddle with tan on the head, legs and underside.

How smart are Airedale terriers? Airedale terriers are smart, versatile dogs. The AKC calls them the "King of Terriers" and describes them as hunters, athletes and companions. They can be independent, so start training early and keep it fun.

Conclusion

Airedale terriers shed, but not much. Weekly brushing and regular full grooming keep the coat in good shape and most of the hair off your floors.

If you want to know more about dogs, go to the dog sub-category under the pets category on the menu above. I hope you have learned something valuable today, and I hope that you take care of your Airedale dog terriers!

Sources

• Airedale Terrier Dog Breed Information, American Kennel Club