The King of Terriers, from the Aire Valley.
A breed born on the banks of a Yorkshire river, shaped by weavers and otter hunters, turned wartime messenger before becoming a family companion.
The Airedale Terrier is no longer one of the most common breeds. We see that as one more reason to preserve its original working temperament — sturdy, sharp, a touch independent — rather than soften it to please a wider crowd.
Bred by Yorkshire weavers in the 19th century.
In the mid-19th century, mill workers and weavers of the Aire Valley in Yorkshire crossed the Otterhound with the old rough-coated Black and Tan Terrier to produce a dog capable of hunting otter and vermin along the river. It was first known as the "Waterside Terrier."
In 1886, the British Kennel Club formally recognized the name "Airedale Terrier," after the valley that gave it birth. Larger than every other terrier, it quickly earned the nickname "King of Terriers" — a title the breed still carries today.
From the Aire Valley to the trenches.
The breed's sturdy temperament and intelligence didn't escape the British Army. Trained through Lieutenant Colonel Edwin Richardson's war dog program, Airedale Terriers served as messenger dogs, sentries and Red Cross dogs during the First World War — crossing the lines under fire to carry a message when no human runner could.
It's that same dog — brave without being aggressive, obedient without losing its spirit — that we breed today, simply in a quieter role: that of a family companion.
Wesley and Marigold.
Our two current breeding dogs, selected for character as much as for type.
Wesley
Registered "Morris & Fils Wes of Aire" with the Canadian Kennel Club. Calm, observant, very at ease with children — a temperament we look for above any point of appearance. Hips and elbows rated excellent, eyes and thyroid clear.
Marigold
Registered "Morris & Fils Marigold," named after a textile pattern dear to the family. Sharp, protective, remarkably patient with her litters. She carries the direct line of Bramble, Edmund's first Airedale.
From the Aire Valley to North Hatley.
Aire Valley, 19th century
Weavers and mill workers create a sturdy terrier capable of hunting otter and vermin along the river.
1886 — An official name
The British Kennel Club recognizes the breed as the Airedale Terrier, after the valley that gave it birth.
1914–1918 — The Great War
The breed serves as a messenger and sentry dog, trained through the British war dog program.
1958 — Arrival in North Hatley
Edmund Morris emigrates from Yorkshire with Bramble and founds what would become Morris & Fils.
Morris & Fils, today
Third generation: Claire breeds Wesley and Marigold by the same principles Edmund once applied to his cloth.
Origins this rich deserve selection just as rigorous.
Discover our currently available puppies, or write to us to discuss an upcoming litter.