Manchester Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison

Airedale terrier got its name from a small river Aire in Leeds area in Great Britain. First information about Airedale terrier originates back in 1850. This breed was used as otter hunters. Airedale terrier was invented by mixing Otterhound, old English terrier, and a white bull-terrier. Airedale was used primarily for hunting otters, deer, or wild boars. Not just that, Airedale was a very good guard dog. During the war, this breed was used for delivery and it showed a lot of courage. One Airedale terrier even received a medal for its bravery in World War I. Today it is used as an official dog of National Police of Britain.

Looking much like the Black and Tan Terrier, the Manchester Terrier is a dog that was actually developed from the Black and Tan, which is the oldest known breed of terrier.

In the United States there are 2 varieties of the Manchester Terrier — the Toy and the Standard but in the UK the 2 sizes are classified as different breeds - the English Toy Terrier and the Manchester Terrier.

The dog was first bred in the 19th century to wipe out rats and mice, originating from Manchester, England. This is an old dog breed, gaining the nickname of the Gentleman's Terrier because of its dignified looks and personality.

After the 2nd World War, the numbers of the dog dropped and this spurred the kennel club to list it as a vulnerable native breed, in danger of extinction. It was in 1937 that the British Manchester Terrier Club was formed.

Average height of Airedale terrier is approximately 56-61cm, while their average weight is 20-29kg. Females are slightly smaller than male dogs. A lifespan of an Airedale terrier variates and depends on the health of the dog but the average lifespan of this breed is 10-12. Litter Size of the Airedale terrier is approximately 8-9 puppies. Other Names Waterside Terrier, Bingley Terrier, King of Terriers

The Manchester Terrier is a small, smooth haired dog with a black and tan coat and a head with a fairly long muzzle, small bright eyes, largish erect ears and a deep chest.

The body is lean and muscular and the tail, where once docked, now tends to be left long. In the toy sized dog you will find him standing at roughly 25 – 30cm in height and he will weigh between 2 to 4kg. The standard sized dog will be slightly taller and heavier and weigh in the region of 8kg.

You can expect between 2 – 4 puppies from a breeding pair.

Temperament:

Feisty, energetic, alert and intelligent are some of the words which describe the Manchester Terrier. Like any other dog, training and socialization will make him a splendid pet, obedient and amicable among people.

He is loving and loyal, courageous and feisty and guaranteed to make you an eager-to-please pet. He can adapt to life in the city or countryside, but is going to need plenty of exercise wherever you keep him as a pet.

Airedale terrier is an amazing and playful dog. They are very intelligent, hard-working, and athletic dogs. This breed has a lot of energy and stamina, so regular activity is a must for this breed. They are independent thinkers which can be challenging sometimes, but overall, if they have enough activity they are amazing and goofy pets.

It is not recommendable to leave your dog for a long period of time because it will get bored, and when it’s bored, they tend to become destructive. You don’t want to see destroyed home when you come back from work.

Airedale terrier is great watchdog too. They will protect family if it is necessary, but overall they are very friendly. They are very sensitive and gentle with kids. Also, with a proper socialization of the dog, they are very friendly towards another animal too.

Basically, the temperament of your Airedale terrier depends on training, socialization, and genes. If you properly train your dog, with good socialization you won’t be having any problems.

The Manchester Terrier has so many good qualities that make him such a good pet. Low maintenance, he is clean and well groomed to look at. He is also a healthy dog breed, nice and active and low maintenance.

This little dog is willing to come into your home and heart. He will make you a wonderful pet and friend for as long as 15 years if you take special care of him.

Airedale terrier is generally a very healthy dog, but as almost any breed, they can have some health issues. Hip dysplasia, cancer, and allergies can cause problems with this breed. You have to be very careful when choosing a perfect dog for you. Examine the family tree to avoid the possible genetic flaws.

Airedale terrier will be a healthy dog if you take a proper care, and with regular vet checks, there shouldn’t be any problems.

This dog breed is fairly healthy and can reach a good age if looked after well. Every dog though, can be affected by a number of inheritable genetic disorders.

Glaucoma is a common genetic condition in Terrier breeds, including the Manchester Terrier. Secondary glaucoma, which is known as lens luxation is brought about when there is excessive pressure in the eyeball. The lens of the eye is put out of alignment. Most times surgery is the solution.

Von Willebrand's Disease is a blood disorder that affects the clotting process. A dog with this disease will have bleeding gums, continuous bleeding after surgery and sometimes blood in the stool. It’s a disease which can’t be cured but it can be managed with treatments.

Feeding Airedale

Airedale feeding depends on how much daily activity has. Overall, for an average Airedale 1.5-2.5 cups of high-quality dry food, divided into a 2 meals is recommendable. It is better than leaving the whole food out all the time. Then again, if your dog is not very active or active more than an average dog, feeding should be organized for your dog’s needs.

Feeding the Airedale puppy

Airedale puppies should eat more than an adult dog. 3-5 meals per day are an optimal measure. Puppies need more meals per day for better development. Also, giving your puppy minerals and vitamins would improve overall health when it is fully grown dog.

Grooming Airedale Terrier

Airedale has a very interesting coat. The coat has two layers, topcoat which is strong, and undercoat which is soft. They do not shed a lot, but twice a year they shed more than the rest of the time. It is not very hard to groom Airedale terrier. Brushing is recommended once or twice a week. You can also bath your Airedale but not very often. Airedale doesn’t require trimming, but some owners decide to do that. It is up to you if you want to trim your dog.

Grooming:

Low maintenance, the Manchester Terrier will only require a brushing once or twice a week. Check his eyes and ears for infections, clip his nails and brush his teeth 2 or 3 times a week.

Diet:

The Manchester Terrier is a lean, muscular dog and you want to be sure to keep him that way. If you feed him commercially manufactured food, make sure that it is one of the high quality brands – food which is packed full of vitamins and minerals to ensure the health of your dog.

Any packaged food you buy should be appropriate to the dog’s age and his activity levels. You won’t be doing your dog a favor by feeding him treats that you enjoy such as chocolate, coffee, peanuts, raisins, grapes and onions.

Dogs want simple food that don’t change much. Keeping things simple prevents upset stomachs. Give him some wholesome home-made food occasionally to add into his dry kibble. This can be boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and some cooked or raw vegetables such as potatoes, carrots and spinach. Some raw meat added in from time to time can also do wonders for your dog. Make sure he has access around the clock to fresh, cool water.

Exercise:

The Manchester Terrier wants lots of exercise, and apart from him having his regular daily walks, he will need runs off the leash in the park. If you go cycling for instance, he will readily run beside you.