Airedale Terrier Forum:
Airedales and aggression

My fifteen month old son was attacked this past Sunday by an 8 year old male airdale. My son was sitting on the floor playing and the owner was even on the floor playing wiith the dog. THe dog simply and totally unprovoked (altho, I firmly believe there is NO reason for such a viscoous attack anyway) grabbed my sons head. He required 11 stitches which is a lot for a baby. So my question would be to ask if this could be a tendency of the breed in older dogs or what. I dont even begin to know what to expect out of htis dog, except it will NEVER be around my children again. A appreciate any info on airdale aggression anyone can give me.

Hi, I just want to say this aggression sounds very unusual, most airedales are very loving animals, although they can be very protective. Maybe the dog seen the baby as a threat to his owner,not meaning to intentionally hurt, but protect his loved one. But I agree you probally shouldnt have your child around the dog. Was he raised around children? Because these dogs have a real protective bond with there families. I have a year old female and also three children ages 7,4, and 1 years of age, and shes never hurt them or anyone else who plays with them. I hope this helps you, but I dont feel the attack was out of aggression, I feel it was an intinct to protect his master. I hope your baby is o.k. adog attack can be very devistating. God bless you and your son. Rhonda