Airedale Terrier vs Jack Russell Terrier

Terrier · Large vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Airedale Terrier is the larger breed at 50–70 lbs (males) vs 13–17 lbs for the Jack Russell Terrier.
  • The Jack Russell Terrier typically lives longer (13–18 years).
  • The Jack Russell Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Airedale Terrier sheds less.
  • The Airedale Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAiredale TerrierJack Russell Terrier
Group
TerrierTerrier
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
EnglandEngland
Height (male)
23"10–15"
Height (female)
22"10–15"
Weight (male)
50–70 lbs13–17 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs13–17 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–14 years13–18 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
wirehairedshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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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 Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell Terrier is a fearless, vocal, athletic small fox terrier — Eddie from Frasier, ten pounds of pure energy. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–17 lbs and lives 13–18 years. Breeders describe them as fearless, vocal, athletic.

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Airedale Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Skin issues

Jack Russell Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Deafness