Dog breed that is the largest of the terriers, probably descended from the otterhound and the extinct Old English terrier. It stands about 23 in. (58 cm) high, weighs 40-50 lbs (18-23 kg), and has a boxy appearance, with a long, squared muzzle. Its coat is dense and wiry, with a black saddle and tan legs, muzzle, and underparts. Intelligent and courageous, powerful and affectionate (though reserved with strangers), the Airedale has been used as a wartime dispatch carrier, police dog, guard, and big-game hunter