Curly Coated Retriever vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison

There isn’t much on the origin of the Curly-Coated Retriever and his history hasn’t been well documented.

The dog originated some time ago in the early 19th century, with some believing that the dog was in England during the late 1700s already.

It is thought that this dog, which is identical to the Labrador but with a tight, curly coat, descended from the Old English Water Dog, the Irish Water Spaniel and the smaller Newfoundland. This mix was later crossed with the Poodle and this is where the curls come into the picture.

The Curly-Coated Retriever gained substantial recognition in England during the mid-1800s and exported to the United States in 1907. The dog was also later exported to Australia and New Zealand and has been recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1924.

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.

The Curly Coated Retriever is a medium sized dog standing at about 58–69cm and weighing anything between 25 – 40kg. The dog, mainly black or chocolate brown, is active and muscled and was used for hunting and retrieving waterfowl.

The coat has small, tight curls over the body except for the face and the legs. He has floppy ears and they eyes of the black dog are brown while in the liver-colored dogs, the eyes are amber or gold.

The tail is long. He has a wedge shaped head, and its the fact that the face is more long than wide which makes him easily distinguishable from other retriever breeds. Of course, it is the curly coat which is the dog’s most distinguishing feature.

Temperament:

The Curly Coated Retriever has been used as a gun dog, and today, like most retrievers, they make superb pets and are a lively, social and fun-loving breed. He becomes loyal and devoted to his human family members, making a splendid pet, but then he must be exercised.

Have him trained and socialized and he becomes an obedient, relaxed dog, eager to please. He is intelligent and self-confident and gets on well with children in the home as well as with other pets.

He fits in easily to city and country life, but if he could have large grounds to run, play and swim, which he loves, he would be at his happiest.

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

Curly Coated Retrievers are such fun dogs, full of personality, robust and active. He makes such a wonderful pet and is loving, loyal and protective. He is brave, courageous, independent and confident as well. He gets on well with children and loves to be part of all their games. He is capable of getting on well with other animals in the home.

He is an active dog and won’t fit in well with those who like to sit around all day. He wants to be active, and then loves to settle down with his human family at night. He is an excellent all-rounder and makes a loving, loyal 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.

With good care, the average life expectancy of the Curly-Coated Retriever can reach between 10 and 12 years. However, there are some health concerns that your dog may have to contend with and which are common in most other dog breeds too.

Ear Infections:

Apart from hip dysplasia, bloat, dental decay and eye diseases such as cataracts, ear infections are a common canine health problem, particular when your dog has floppy ears and loves the water.

Ear infections can also be caused because of bacteria, ear mites, allergies and hair growth in the ear canal. Your pet will shake his head, maybe off balance and be scratching his ear. You might notice his ears are red and oozing. Get him to the vet immediately.

Parasites and Worms:

When you brush your dog, check for fleas and ticks. Worms too, can make your dog ill, and can actually be the death of a puppy. Worms can cause weight loss, a rough, dull coat and a generally run-down appearance. Your vet will be able to guide you as to what medications are available.

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.

Grooming:

The Curly Coated Retriever is a single-coated dog breed and this makes him a low maintenance dog. He doesn’t shed much and a good brush twice a week will keep the curly coat in good condition. There are some dog owners that trim the feathering around the legs, feet, tail and belly.

Diet:

The Curly Coated Retriever is an attractively low maintenance breed. Therefore he doesn’t require any special diet. He does well on a top quality manufactured dog food where protein is listed at the top.

These dogs are inclined to put on weight easily so you want to be sure to follow the directions on the packaging and not overfeed him. With his kibble, sometimes add in some cooked brown rice, vegetables and chicken.

Raw meat can be expensive but if you can, try and include it into your pet’s diet to avoid nasty skin rashes and allergies. Always make sure that cool, fresh water is available to your dog and make sure the food and water bowls are regularly washed.

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.