Sirius of the Week for May 14 - 20, 2000.
Meet Country Aire's Wingin' Digby (or Digby for short), a 2 year old male Airedale
Terrier, and the fourth Terrier in our Terrier series.
Digby recently competed at the Columbia Terrier Specialty show and came
in second in open dog for Airedale Terriers. Digby's mom says that she loves showing
Digby. She says, "I'm fairly new at it, but really
enjoy it. I've had enough classes and practice to feel like I won't make a fool
of myself out there (at least not too often). I have used a handler for really
big shows. I only show for fun, so I don't really care too much about winning."
When he's not showing, he likes to play and learn tricks. According to his little
sister (human), he likes playing with his green ball (and he likes cheese and
milkbones). While Digby is always willing to play, he is a well mannered house pet. He's working
on competitive obedience ("even MORE fun than the breed ring by far," mom says). He's the
smartest dog his mom has ever had. He learns tricks very quickly and really likes to
work. He's a bit of a challenge because he gets bored easily and, being a
terrier, has a mind of his own.
His best tricks include jumping though his mom's arms (held like a hoop), walking on
his hind legs, taking a bow, and a fast roll over.
Best of all, he is a faithful companion who goes nearly everywhere with his mom.
Despite his size and energy, he is a gentle playmate for his person-siblings, ages 6 and
9.
Airedales are wonderful dogs, but they are not for everyone. They require firm
but respectful training (they don't respond well to being jerked around on a
choke collar). They need lots of exercise, preferably in a fenced area, and lots
of walks. Some Airedales are dog-aggressive. Most will not start a fight, but
will finish one handily if challenged.
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