Airedale Terrier vs Border Terrier

Terrier · Large vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Airedale Terrier is the larger breed at 50–70 lbs (males) vs 13–15.5 lbs for the Border Terrier.
  • The Border Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Airedale Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAiredale TerrierBorder Terrier
Group
TerrierTerrier
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
EnglandEngland
Height (male)
23"13–15"
Height (female)
22"13–15"
Weight (male)
50–70 lbs13–15.5 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs11.5–14 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–14 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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About the Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is a friendly, clever, courageous 'King of Terriers' — the largest of the terrier clan from Yorkshire. Originally from England, this large terrier breed typically weighs 50–70 lbs and lives 11–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, clever, courageous.

About the Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is an affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–15.5 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered.

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Airedale Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Skin issues

Border Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Heart problems