Kerry Blue Terrier

One the of the lesser-known terriers, the Kerry Blue terrier is still an incredibly popular dog among those who are familiar with it. From its show-stopping coat to its loyal and loving nature, this dog makes a great companion, and it’s no surprise that it has a loyal group of owners.

A vigilant and animated dog, this breed finds no greater pleasure than protecting and bonding with his family. You will find a noble and unique companion in this breed. Read on to learn more about the Kerry Blue Terrier.

Description of the Kerry Blue Terrier

You can’t talk about a Kerry Blue Terrier without first talking about its incredible coat. Coming in shades of blue, from deep slate to light blue-gray, these dogs have fur that is incredibly soft to the touch and beautiful to look at. This breed also has a distinctive beard that highlights their long head.

This breed hails from Ireland, and is named after the county from which it originated. As terriers, they have lean and well-muscled bodies capable of being both nimble and working long, tiresome days. Their small and bright eyes are always on the lookout, and the well-tempered and adaptable nature of this dog makes it a great companion for farm and family alike.

Life Expectancy and Size

The Kerry Blue Terrier is one of the healthiest breeds around. They live an average of 12 – 15 years, and are quite often healthy throughout their lives. Working with a reputable breeder who screens for hereditary defects can help keep your dog’s stock healthy and prepare you for any potential health problems down the road.

These large terriers stand 18 – 19.5 inches tall for males, and 17.5 – 19 inches for females. Males weigh between 33 and 40 pounds, and females are a bit smaller.

Protective Ability

The Kerry Blue makes an alert watchdog who is always looking over his family. But because this breed is so friendly they are not a great choice for those looking for a guard dog. You can expect a sweet dog that will alert you to strangers, but greet them happily at the door.

Training

This breed is known for its intelligence and desire to learn. Keeping things interesting and fun is the best way to get your Kerry Blue Terrier engaged and make training sessions as efficient as possible.

These dogs love treats and they are a great tool to use for training! Just be sure not to overfeed or your dog may become obese.

Because of their intelligence and energetic nature, the Kerry Blue is a great choice for canine sports. This will train them, burn off extra energy, and let them bond with you; all some of their favorite things.

Energy Level

Like his terrier kin, the Kerry Blue Terrier is a lively dog with lots of energy. This breed loves to be on the move and in the center of all the action. Providing him with plenty of daily exercise will keep him fit, happy, and mentally stimulated.

That said, these dogs have another side of them that loves to snuggle up with their families on the couch. They can be very affectionate and docile dogs at times. Just know that their feisty and rambunctious side is never far away.

What Living with a Kerry Blue Terrier is Like

This is a lively and alert breed.

These dogs love spending time with their family. If this involves lots of playtime and exercise they will be in heaven! You can expect a fun-loving and sometimes goofy dog that will always supply lots of entertainment and keep you on your toes. This is a great breed for those looking to add a family member who isn’t afraid to jump right in.

In more sedentary families, this breed will enjoy lounging around with his family and following them around the house. Just know you can’t get by with just love and affection. These active dogs crave physical movement, and will become unhappy if not given ample exercise.

Care of the Kerry Blue Terrier

This dog is adaptable and easy-going. Just provide him with plenty of physical activity and social time with the family and he will be happy.

Environmental Needs

Originally from the vast countryside of Ireland, these hardy dogs can tolerate most weather thrown at them. They do especially well in the cold, thanks to their dense and dark coats. The Kerry Blue can also do well in heat, but it is hard for them to regulate in extreme heat because of their thick blue coat and the fact that they don’t shed. Try to limit time outside in hotter environments.

Exercise Needs

Being active is what this breed is all about. The Kerry Blue Terrier is lively and adventurous, so plenty of daily exercise is a must to keep him happy. A long daily walk supplemented with backyard playtime is a good place to start. Consider enrolling your dog in canine sports, as these can be a great outlet for energy and provide lots of mental stimulation for your dog.

Like true terriers, the Kerry Blue likes to dig, and will be especially prone to digging if not given plenty of other outlets for its energy. Training them early can teach your dog what is and is not alright to dig in.

Shedding and Grooming

While these dogs don’t shed, their thick and wavy coat does require some maintenance. A thorough weekly brush is essential in keeping your dog’s coat mat-free and shiny. Be able to give your dog a full groom every six to eight weeks, either done by you or a professional groomer. This will make maintenance more manageable.

Weekly nail trimmings will keep your dog out of discomfort, and be sure to clean their ears a few times a month.

Ideal Home Environment

The Kerry Blue Terrier makes a great family dog because of its loving and watchful nature. They do well with kids, especially if raised together, and adore their families. But this breed does not do well in a home with other dogs.

They are naturally wary of other dogs, and so it is best for them to be the only one in the house. Early socialization is critical in helping your Kerry Blue grow into a calm and collected pup around other dogs. It is not recommended to take them to the dog park, and be sure to have them on leash when out and about.

Health Concerns

A naturally robust and healthy breed, the Kerry Blue Terrier often lives a long and full life. Responsible breeders are constantly screening for hereditary defects in their dogs’ genes. Be sure to work with a reputable breeder to make sure your puppy is healthy. But, like all breeds, these dogs can be prone to certain health issues, including eye and orthopedic diseases. Regular check-ups can help prevent and treat health problems that occur.

Behavior Problems

These dogs can love to dig. Teaching them early where it is okay and not okay to dig can save your yard from the addition of unsightly holes.

The Kerry Blue Terrier also isn’t fond of other dogs. They tend to be wary and aloof, quick to act if they sense danger. Keeping them on leash and away from the dog park is the best way to make sure your dog doesn’t end up in trouble.