Kerry Blue Terrier Overview

The Kerry Blue Terrier is one of the more “all-purpose” Terrier breeds. Originally bred to hunt game of various sizes, it can hunt, track, herd, and be an adequate in-home pet. Its thick, curly coat makes for some very high grooming requirements. On a basic level, the coat needs to be brushed two to three times weekly. But if it lives in an area with dead leaves and grass, it will pick much of it up. Every month or so, its coat needs to be shaped by either clipping or stripping dead hairs. As a puppy, its ears need to be trained. This is a very affectionate and playful dog. It is also one of the easier Terrier breeds to train. The Kerry Blue is an excellent and versatile watchdog, ideal for any single owner in search of a worker or companion.

Kerry Blue Terrier History

The Ring of Kerry is a large region in southwest Ireland, popularized today as a tourism hotspot. In the 18th century, a Terrier existed that was ideal for almost any job a farm could provide. Herding, hunting, trailing and retrieving were only a few of the breed’s many talents. Its fur is originally black, turning its characteristic blue color in its first years of life. Though fabled and revered in its native Ireland, this dog was unknown to the rest of the world until the early 20th century, when it arrived in American and English dog shows. Named after its place of origin, the Kerry Blue Terrier was recognized by the AKC in 1924. Today the breed is moderately popular, earning its stripes as a show dog, farm dog, or simple home companion.

Kerry Blue Terrier Character

Kerry Blue Terriers are extremely loyal watchdogs, caring primarily for its owner’s well-being. It is relatively easy to train. And combined with its athletic build and moderate energy, this breed can be trained for any number of jobs. It needs daily exercise in both mind and body, lest it become bored, noisy, and destructive. Needing the company of its owners, this breed also needs to feel like part of the family. It is always eager to accompany its owners in outdoor activities, but it is important to be wary of other animals. A guard dog at heart, the Kerry Blue is naturally aggressive towards dogs and other animals. Though proper socialization will help this problem, it is always a good idea to keep an eye out. It is also aggressive towards strangers, being very protective of its owner. But with regular visitors – provided the Kerry Blue can properly meet them – it is a friendly and affectionate dog. It is patient with children, but does not like to be teased or wrestled with. The Kerry Blue Terrier is an athletic dog that loves the company of its owner. Best suited for a single individual who can put it to good use, this breed loves to get the job done.

Kerry Blue Terrier Care

Requiring grooming every six weeks, the Kerry Blue Terrier requires a lot of coat maintenance. Ear hair plucking is required as this breed is prone to ear infections and dirty ears. A very light shedder, this breed should be brushed and combed every week to keep coat silky, tangle free, and presentable. Bathing every week is required for this dog or their beard will become very dirty.

Kerry Blue Terrier Training

The Kerry Blue Terrier is an intelligent and active breed and is eager to please. However, consistent training, a firm hand, and a wide variety of training methods is a must if this dog is to become well mannered and polite. Owner must be confident and firm if this breed is to excel in obedience training.

Kerry Blue Terrier Health

Common Health Issues for the Kerry Blue Terrier:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Less Common Health Issues for the Kerry Blue Terrier:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Kerry Blue Terrier Resources