Airedale Terrier vs Labrador Retriever

Terrier · Large vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Labrador Retriever is the larger breed at 65–80 lbs (males) vs 50–70 lbs for the Airedale Terrier.
  • The Airedale Terrier typically lives longer (11–14 years).
  • The Labrador Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Airedale Terrier sheds less.
  • The Labrador Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAiredale TerrierLabrador Retriever
Group
TerrierSporting
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
EnglandCanada
Height (male)
23"22.5–24.5"
Height (female)
22"21.5–23.5"
Weight (male)
50–70 lbs65–80 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs55–70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–14 years11–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
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)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
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 Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is america's most popular dog — a friendly, outgoing, athletic retriever bred to fetch waterfowl. Originally from Canada, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–80 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, active, outgoing, even-tempered.

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Airedale Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Skin issues

Labrador Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Obesity
  • Progressive retinal atrophy