Known as the King of Terriers, the Airedale Terrier is the largest
of terriers. The breed originated in the middle of the 1800’s in an area near
the Aire River in England, the result of a mix of Otterhounds, Old English
Black and Tan Terriers, Bull Terriers and other Terriers. The Airedale Terrier
was first used by the Yorkshiremen for ratting on the Aire River, even
participating in rat hunting competitions. Though the breed was first known as
the Waterside or Bingley Terrier, its name was changed to Airedale in 1878
after the place where it was developed. After becoming popular in dogs shows,
the breed’s appearance became of interest and enthusiasts began breeding efforts, including the Bull and Irish Terriers. John Wayne, President Woodrow Wilson and
Warren Harding all owned Airedale Terriers and dogs of the breed served in
World War I taking on the roles of hunter, messenger and guard. The Standard
Schnauzer is the oldest of the Schnauzer breeds and is believed to have been
developed in the Middle Ages in Germany. The breed was initially developed to
assist on the farm, guard farmers and hunt vermin and appeared in artwork as
far back as the 15th century. It is thought that the Schnauzer is a
mix of the German Poodle, Wolf Spitz and Wire-haired Pinscher. The Schnauzer
was not known throughout the world until the middle of the 19th
century when the breed became noticed by German Dog fans who were looking to
develop the standard and establish the breed in their country. Known also as
the Wire-haired Pinscher, the Standard Schnauzer was first recognized by the
American Kennel Club in 1904.