Funny you mention this.

I was just in New Jersey, and along the way visited a friend who has two Airdales.

They are good-sized dogs. I liked them tho normally I like the looks of smooth or shorter-coated dogs. He doesn't hunt with them, and they are basically pets/guard dogs. They were both cut males, and very nice dogs. I did notice a little "dog" smell. Not really strong, but up close with my eyes closed, I could tell they were dogs, not my wife with a bit of Cloe behind her ears.

As for protecting themselves against predators, we have all you mentioned. I've never seen any of those to be really significant threats to dogs. Big size is no disadvantage for sure. One you didn't mention is one you will probably have in a few years, the wolf, and there is no dog alive that can stand against them.