The Airedale Terrier ( often shortened to `` Airedale '' ) is a breed of the terrier type , originating in Airedale , a geographic area in Yorkshire , England . It traditionally was called the `` King of Terriers '' because before the creation of the Black Russian Terrier by the NKVD , the Airedale was largest of the terrier breeds . The Airedale Terrier was recognized by United Kennel Club in 1914 .