Airedale Terrier Health Guide

When it comes to the terrier breed, the Airedale is unique, as far as appearance and definitely one of the smartest and most personable dogs. However, the Airedale Terrier is also a dog that needs good socialization, proper training, and a firm master’s hand. Once settled into his new home, you will find this breed to be highly loyal and an excellent companion.

 

Health Problems in the Airedale Terrier

Just as with any breed, the Airedale Terrier has certain potential health issues. Typically, proper diet, exercise, and regular checkups will help prevent most but it is still important to understand possible challenges. The good news is that for the most part, the Airedale is a very health breed of dog. Therefore, when health issues do arise, they are usually minor and easily fixed.

The most common health risk for this breed, as with any larger dog, is Hip Dysplasia. In this case, the ball and socket of the hip becomes loose, making walking, sitting, and lying down both difficult and painful. If you were buying an Airedale for show or breeding purposes, you can actually have the puppy checked by a trained veterinarian and then certified for being free of this disease.

 

 

Now, if you do not have the puppy checked but you begin to notice your dog limping, you would want to have him checked. Many times, medication such as Rimadyl and Deramaxx, which are used for pain and inflammation, will help. In addition, your veterinarian may recommend certain supplements such as green-lipped muscle from New Zealand.

Sold in powder and pill form, this supplement is often mixed with Glucosamine to help strengthen the bone. Other possible solutions are much more drastic. For instance, you could have hip surgery for stabilization or even a full hip replacement performed but keep in mind this is expensive, and the dog must meet certain health, age, and weight requirements. Another relatively common problem for the Airedale Terrier is dry and itchy skin. Since this dog’s hair is dense and tight, skin issues do occur. However, itchy skin could also be a sign of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or even a dietary problem.

Most often, this health problem can be controlled with better diet, shampoos, conditioners, and possibly medication. Another possible reason for itchy skin is allergies. For instance, some dogs are allergic to fleas. Therefore, if they were to be bitten, they might actually breakout with hives. Other than Hip Dysplasia and itchy skin, the Airedale Terrier is a healthy breed. On rare occasion, this breed can also have issues with eye infections but for the most part, keeping the eyes wiped off, the ears cleaned out, and the dog bathed, brushed, and groomed will go a long way as far as health. With the right care, your Airedale Terrier should live anywhere between 10 and 14, providing you and your family with years of enjoyment.

 

Read More About :: Airedale Terrier

• Airedale Terrier Breed Information
• Airedale Terrier : 10 Most Common Questions
• Owning an Airedale Terrier : Breeder Recommendations
• Airedale Terrier Training Guide

 

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