I discovered my love for the Airedale Terrier Breed, when I first met my husband and he had an Airedale Terrier. This was the start of my love for the breed.

When our dog died before the birth of our daughter the house was not the same, so we decide to get another Airedale. My husband had always wanted to operate a Dog Kennel. We acquired an Airedale in 1980. Then we found the right dog with the right bloodlines. In 1981 we acquired two Airedale Terriers from two different lines, they were selected by the same breeder as the puppies, with the best two dogs we began to breed. After a few hurdles they took their breed entrance examinations, HP X rays etc.

My first litter was born on the 26.06.1983 in Dortmund. Vera brought eight puppies in to the world (5 bitches and 3 dogs); with this litter we developed the breed. We had healthy, good natured and strong beautiful puppies. Even in some of the puppies today, I can still recognise some of the characters and traits from our very first litter.

Although I was well prepared with the right literature, I had to fight as a beginner in this area with lots of different problems. At this time I had good support from the original breeder of my Airedale, she gave me lots of advice and practical help. I was so glad I had someone to ask questions and give advice.

In 1984 we moved to a new house in Kamen. We now live in a rural area without any neighbours to annoy!!! This has allowed me to concentrate on my breeding programme. Although I was a member of the local dog group I joined another group (experts in Airedale Terrier breeds). Here I became acquainted with Mrs. Dr. von Bardeleben a well-known expert on the Airedale, as well as a recognised International Judge. I was also very lucky that I had a very good vet from whom I learnt a lot.

For advanced training I participated regularly in breeding seminars from 1983. Today I have brought up many litters and lots of families have fallen in love with this breed. I still keep in contact with many families who have had my puppies and we have formed many friendships.

Doris Gieselmann