Breed of the Month--Kerry Blue Terrier

Kerry Blue Terrier


Color:  Any shade of gray-blue, may have black  points or small white markings.
Height:  Males:  18-19.5 inches/  Females:  17.5-19 inches
Weight:  Males:  33-40 lbs/  Females:  less
Life Span:  12-15 years

Breed Health Concerns:  Eye problems, ear infections, patellar lunation, skin problems, hypothyroidism, and cerebellar abiotrophy.

Coat:  Dense, soft, wavy, silky single coat.
Country of Origin:  Ireland

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standard and more information.

The origins of this breed are somewhat unknown, but the Kerry Blue Terrier has been in Ireland for at least the last 100 years.  The Kerry has been used to watch over their families, hunt, guard property, kill vermin, and tend stock.

The Kerry Blue Terrier is confident, feisty, and intelligent, which can lead to a territorial breed.  It is important to properly socialize the Kerry.  The Kerry can be a rough playmate, and should be closely monitored with other dogs.

For me and my personal dog taste, I am not a huge fan of the Kerry Blue Terrier.  That does not mean that can not make a wonderful pet for you and your family.  My experience with this breed has noted an excess of energy and stubbornness.

Exercise:
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a very high energy breed and needs a lot of daily mental and physical stimulation.  The Kerry is very intelligent and will find fun in any game you could want to play with him.  The Kerry enjoys being outside.

Grooming:
Show Kerrys need professional grooming.  The average pet Kerry will also need to be taken to a professional groomer about every 6-8 weeks. Their coats shed very little and make great pets for people with allergies.  Occasional bathing of the breed is sufficient.  Extra care must be taken to make sure the eyes stay clean and free from infection.

Training:
The Kerry Blue Terrier require firm training that also keeps the dog interested.  Focused, short training sessions are best for the Kerry.  It is very important to socialize this breed as a puppy and throughout life to keep him from becoming too territorial.