<P> Albert Payson Terhune wrote of the Airedale: "Among the mine - pits of the Aire, the various groups of miners each sought to develop a dog which could outfight and outhunt and outthink the other miner's dogs . Tests of the first - named virtues were made in inter-mine dog fights . Bit by bit, thus, an active, strong, heroic, compactly graceful and clever dog was evolved--the earliest true form of the Airedale . </P> <P> He is swift, formidable, graceful, big of brain, an ideal chum and guard...To his master he is an adoring pal . To marauders he is a destructive lightning bolt ." </P> <P> Airedale Terriers in UK, USA, and Canadian surveys had a median lifespan of about 11.5 years, which is similar to other breeds of their size . </P> <P> In a 2004 UK Kennel Club survey, the most common causes of death were cancer (39.5%), old age (14%), urologic (9%), and cardiac (7%). In a 2000--2001 USA / Canada Health Survey, the most common causes of death were cancer (38%), urologic (17%), old age (12%), and cardiac (6%) A very hardy breed, although some may suffer from eye problems, hip dysplasia and skin infections . </P>

What is the average lifespan of an airedale terrier