The Airedale developed in the Aire River valley of Yorkshire, England, around the mid-1800's. It is generally agreed the gene pool included the now-extinct English Black and Tan Terriers crossed with the Otterhound. This combination came together for the specific purpose of creating a tough hunting terrier that could swim and excel in the local farmer's sport of river-rat hunting.

Farmers found this new strain of terrier was a quiet hunter that could flush and retrieve fowl as well as rabbits.

Though the breed was first named the Bingley or Waterside Terrier, by 1886 the Kennel Club listed the name "Airedale Terrier".

 The early dogs were rugged, but earned ever-increasing respect with their abilities. Airedales were used to hunt bear, bobcats, and wild hogs. During World War I, Airedales served with valor as guard dogs and messengers.

In 1920, the Airedale was the most popular breed in the United States, wtih 6,386 AKC registrations. Even the White House had a resident Airedale, Laddie Boy, owned by President Warren Harding.

Serious breeders have managed to revive this breed. Today the Airedale is once again a stable, sound, medium-sized dog. It now ranks 49th in popularity among the 140 breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club.