 Breeds
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The Kerry Blue Terrier is gentle, lovable and intelligent. They are an all-round working and utility terrier. They are successful in herding sheep and cattle. They have rich, long hair on their face and a curly, gray coat. Outgoing and friendly towards their family, they are known to give big slurpy kisses. Kerry Blue Terriers are born black. Their coats begin to change sometime between nine and twenty-four months to red, brown or gray and then Kerry blue.
Other Names: Irish Blue Terrier
Height: 18 - 19 inches
Weight: 33 - 37 lbs.
Colors: Any shade of blue, with or without black points,; a small white patch on chest should not be penalized.
Coat: Soft, spiky, plentiful and wavy.
Temperament: Kerry Blue Terriers are determined, friendly, enthusiastic.
With Children: Yes, patient and protective of children.
With Pets: May not be advisable to keep with other males as the Kerry Blue Terrier will not back down from a fight. Socialize to cats at a young age.
Special Skills: Watchdog and family pet.
Watch-dog: Very High
Guard-dog: High
Care and Exercise: Kerry Blue Terriers need regular brushing or combing with a steel comb or a slicker brush. Bathe monthly. If shown they need regular clipping and trimming with scissors and trimmer. Kerry Blue Terriers do not shed nor do they have a body odor. Check ears, eyes, teeth and nails frequently. Daily exercise is essential which should consist of long walks on a leash and or games off-leash.
Training: Obedience training is necessary for the Kerry Blue Terrier as they are an active, self-confident and stubborn dog. Training should be combined with patience and firmness.
Learning Rate: High, Obedience - Low, Problem Solving - High
Activity: High
Living Environment: A house with a yard is preferable but is not essential if they can receive enough exercise.
Health Issues: Cataracts, blood disorders, hair-follicle tumors, tear deficiency
Life Span: 12 - 15 years
Litter Size: 4 - 8
Country of Origin: Ireland
History: Kerry Blue Terriers were developed in the 1700's by Irish shepherds. Their name comes from the county of Kerry in south-western Ireland. Crossed between the Irish Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier, they were originally used as a companion, farm dog, guard dog and hunting dog. Known to dispatch rats and other barnyard vermin they were also a good retriever fetching prey from the water. Joining the show world at Westminster Kennel Club in 1922, they were official recognized by the AKC in 1924.
First Registered by the AKC: 1922
AKC Group: Terrier
Class: Terrier
Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 3), KC (GB), UKC
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