Kerry Blue Terrier

The Kerry Blue Terrier, one of the biggest breeds in the Terrier group, gets its name from Kerry County in Ireland. These dogs are active and adaptable, originally developed to assist on farms. They feature short bodies, long legs, sturdy bones, and strong muscles, making them great at activities like running, retrieving, swimming, and herding. Their fur is soft, wavy, and thick, showcasing a unique blue-gray shade. When they are born, they are completely black, and they usually develop their special blue color before they reach two years old.

Quick Info

Size

Medium

Colours

Blue-gray, with or without black points

Lifespan

12 to 15 years

Height

18 to 20 inches

Type

Terrier

Hypoallergenic

yes

Weight

33 to 40 pounds

Family

Terrier

Personality

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a lively and flexible breed, combining the traits of a hardworking farm dog with those of a friendly and devoted pet. They enjoy running, chasing, and discovering new things, yet they can also be polite and relaxed when inside. This breed is watchful of their family and tends to be wary of unfamiliar faces. When meeting friends, they show great excitement. Intelligent and clever, they often bark.

History

Originating from County Kerry in Ireland, the Kerry Blue Terrier has been helping with various farm tasks for more than a century. It wasn't until the 1920s that dog lovers in England and America began to recognize this breed.

Ideal Owner

Full of energy and spirit, the Kerry Blue Terrier thrives with an owner who understands their Terrier traits. They require steady and strong training that focuses on rewarding good behavior. With a bit of a stubborn streak, they are determined and fast.

Exercise Needs

These smart dogs require plenty of both physical activity and mental challenges. Kerry Blue Terriers love to run, chase, walk, and do scent activities, which can make their exercise more exciting.

Space Requirements

A yard with a fence is essential for Kerry Blue Terriers. These dogs are persistent and will keep digging or jumping until they achieve what they want. They are also quite vocal and have a natural instinct to protect. Because of this, they thrive in calm or countryside settings, as the hustle and bustle of city life can be too much for them.

Training

Similar to many Terrier breeds, the Kerry Blue requires early and continuous social interaction to develop into a friendly pet. They thrive on positive reinforcement and learn quickly, but they can also show a bit of stubbornness occasionally.

Grooming

The coat of the Kerry Blue Terrier does not shed and has a smooth, soft texture. It requires regular brushing and occasional trimming.

Suitability for Family Life

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a better fit for older kids or families without children, as they may be too independent for younger kids.

Did You know?

The Kerry Blue Terrier is recognized as Ireland's National Dog. These dogs start off with black fur, which later changes to a blue-gray shade as they grow.