Kerry Blue Terrier Breed Description

Introduction

The National Dog of Ireland, the Kerry Blue Terrier originated in County Kerry. They were internationally recognized in 1922. These are well built, muscular, medium sized dogs with true terrier style and character. Born black at birth, the coat changes color through one or more transitions until they reach 18 months old. Mature colors are from slate blue to light gray. Vivacious, playful, alert and boisterous, they make good watch dogs and will not attack without provocation. Kerry Blues require a confident owner and need firm obedience training. They like long walks. Groom every 6 weeks. These dogs weigh 33 to 40 lbs. and stand 17-20" at the shoulders.

History

The Kerry Blue Terrier is named for Kerry County in Ireland, where the breed began. They were developed from local terriers to be an ideal companion that could also guard house and home and catch and kill the vermin native to the area. In addition to being expert hunters of mice and rats, these hardy terriers will also go after more aggressive animals, like badgers or foxes – and thanks to their tenacity, they will usually be the victor. Breeding for this ability on top of the standard terrier traits has produced a hardy dog that can think for itself.

General Description

Every Kerry Blue Terrier is born a black puppy. As they mature, their curly-to-wavy coat lightens and changes tone; adults are a slate blue that can range all the way to gray. In a mature adult, the feet and head may be darker than the rest of the dog.

Temperament

The Kerry Blue is a terrier – with everything that group designation implies. They tend to be Alpha dogs and most do not get along with other dogs. As vermin exterminators, they do not get along with cats or other small house pets. They like having center stage, prefer working things out for themselves, and require a firm but gentle hand in training if they are to respond in a positive way to any instruction.

Health and Care

The unique Kerry Blue Terrier coat does not shed, making them an ideal pet choice for people who loathe having their home covered with dog hair. Some find this trait is enough to ease allergic reactions as well. Although because of its texture, the fur does not fall off the dog, they are losing hairs as their coat replaces itself; daily brushing to remove those lost hairs will keep the animal looking and feeling its best. They produce very little dander as compared to other dogs, which also makes them a good choice for many with allergies to that substance. Potential owners should be aware, however, that as a soft-coated breed, the Kerry Blue is susceptible to a variety of skin problems that can range from hair follicle tumors to sebaceous cysts. Grooming – whether by you or your veterinarian or your professional pet groomer – should include plucking ear hair to avoid a host of ear problems. They have sensitive eyes, but owners find that there are numerous daily medications that can alleviate most eye problems they can develop.

Daily exercise along with mental stimulation is vital for this breed; they do not do well alone in a house all day and can become destructive. They are happy participants in everything their families do, and delight in playing tricks on their owners!

Colors

Black, Blue, Gray-Blue, Blue/Grey, Black Speckles, White Speckles

Living Area

Even though these dogs require a high level of activity and exercise, they do fare well in an apartment setting or smaller household. They are fairly active indoors on their own, and a small fenced-in yard is ideal for them. The dog is known to become bored easily, so providing activities and attention is important. These dogs will not do well being chained up all day, and will require some affection and attention on a regular basis.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

Pets4You offers listings of Kerry Blue Terrier breeders with puppies for sale.