Kerry Blue Terrier
 FindaPetOnlineAdult Size: Females 17.5-19 inches and 33-40 pounds, Males 18.5-20 inches and 33-40 pounds
Breed: Kerry Blue Terrier
Breed Group: Terrier

Characteristics:
  • Energy Level: High
  • Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
  • Shedding: Minimal








The Kerry Blue Terrier is a well-built, muscular, medium-sized dog with true terrier style and character. The long, well-balanced head sports abundant whiskers, beard and eyebrows. The legs are moderately long with plenty of bone and muscle.

The Kerry Blue Terrier originated in the 1700's in the mountainous regions of County Kerry from which its name is derived. The Kerry is the national terrier of Ireland (under the name Irish Blue Terrier) and has become a symbol of Ireland. No one knows for certain, which breeds were used to develop the Kerry Blue, but many believe the Portuguese Water Dog, contributed its silky, wavy coat.

Vivacious and playful; determined and alert; boisterous and unrepressed; the Kerry Blue Terrier has a way about it that makes people laugh and have fun. They enjoy roughhousing and will get along well with other pets if properly introduced and supervised, but they can be dog aggressive.

The Kerry is a good watchdog, but will not attack without real provocation. A loving family dog, he likes to be with his people and is affectionate with friends of the family. They rarely bark unnecessarily and require a confident owner and firm obedience training.

Kerries should be groomed every 6 weeks. They also need to have the hair pulled out of the ear canal, as they are prone to ear infections when the ear hair gets too long and wax and dirt have built up. In addition to this, they will need grooming once a week with brush and comb.

The distinctive blue coat is not only beautiful, but practical as well. The Kerry Blue sheds little to no hair and is odorless, even when wet. Bathing and combing every week is a must! It keeps them clean. Without proper care, their beard will get smelly and packed with food and dirt.

The Kerry Blue Terrier is usually a very healthy long-lived breed, although some are prone to hip dysplasia, cataracts, spiculosis, hair follicle tumors and CHD.