Kerry Blue Terrier: Your Complete Guide

The proud terrier is an animal that has been well-liked through the island of Ireland for at least two centuries. The Kerry blue terrier is a sweet-tempered dog of middling size with a capable arsenal of handy skills. They have been used for several jobs, including pest control, livestock wrangling, and even aiding hunters.

They are a distinct breed with a regal appearance that can make anyone a very happy owner. Contrarily, they can also be difficult for other animals to get along with.

They will require a lot of hours of bonding and exercise throughout the year, which may be unsuitable for certain lifestyles. In this article, we will thoroughly examine everything that has to do with Ireland’s favorite bearded buddy.

Quick Look at the Kerry Blue Terrier

Below is a quick glance at this special breed in terms of its physical characteristics, lifespan, temperament, and grooming needs.

What Is the History of Kerry Blue Terriers?

The handsome terrier existed in Ireland well before any written account of their existence was given. While the first written record dates back to 1847, there is no shortage of lofty folklore surrounding the origin of the fascinating animal.

One legend states that they began as a crossbreed by common folk to aid in poaching animals. Another states that they came from a Russian pooch that swam to shore after its ship had sank. The mythical seafaring mutt was so charming and attractive that it bred several litters with local dogs, creating the Kerry blue terrier.

Both stories are possible, though the actual introduction between the humble hunter and humanity is likely lost to time.

Their first entrance to the big stage was in 1916, when they were shown off for their numerous skills and affable personalities. By 1922, they were being brought to England in more renowned shows as the breed’s popularity began to take hold. By 1924, they had been formally accepted as a breed by the American Kennel Club.

The breed has maintained its popularity in its home country and has even been considered for the position of National Dog of Ireland. Similarly, it was also the first registered breed when the Irish Kennel Club was created.

What Do Kerry Blue Terriers Look Like?

The breed has a coat of thick hair that grows nearly as fervently as the sheep they used to herd. Their fur is varying shades of black, blue, and silver, with a deep coat that is softer than its appearance suggests. A well-trimmed terrier will have a thick beard around the end of their mouth, with thick, bushy brows that arch over an intelligent, regal countenance.

The body will have a dense protective layer of fur that can grow wild and wispy if left unchecked. As puppies, they typically take on a darker shade that will lighten over the years as the pup reaches maturity.

What Size Is a Kerry Blue Terrier?

The terrier sits on the smaller side of the medium category, with a height that can come close to twenty inches. The average Kerry blue terrier will stand around seventeen to nineteen inches on all fours, weighing between thirty-three to forty pounds.

What Is a Kerry Blue Terrier’s Coat Type and Length?

The dog has a thick mop of wavy fur that will need to be trimmed every other month to keep their signature look. It grows medium in length and can start to overtake the face if the lengthier whisps are not taken care of.

Their coat is a single layer of black, blue, and silver shades that feels like soft wool when touched. When untrimmed, they can look like the diminutive, dark-haired relative of the Irish greyhound.

What Is a Kerry Blue Terrier’s Temperament?

The breed has an endearing disposition that is easily beloved by those who meet the dog. They are deeply devoted to their family and tend to dote on their owners and move softly around the children of the house. Their energy can translate into a very efficient little worker that will clear out migrating mice, keep livestock at bay, and protect whatever they deem to be theirs.

Are Kerry Blue Terriers Good With Kids?

They are famously great with kids, seeming to instinctively know how careful they should be around their bipedal buddies. Like any dog, they should be introduced and monitored to ensure both get along, though they are agreeable animals that are patient and protective of kids.

If a family is in the market for a medium-sized breed with a great personality and a gentle hand, the Kerry blue terrier is a good-natured grandpa who will happily befriend most toddlers.

Are Kerry Blue Terriers Good With Other Animals?

Like many other types of dogs, the Kerry blue terrier has a strong preference for humans. They are known to be tense with other dogs and will need to be brought in early if people are hoping to give their other canines a new companion. Cats and smaller animals will not have any luck either; the terrier has a deep-seated grudge with anything on four legs.

Their standoffish nature is not set in stone, and depending on the dog’s upbringing and individual personality, they can grow to get along with other animals. Training and early introductions will also severely limit the snappiness of the breed.

However, they should not be the first choice for busy households who want an immediate friend for their other pets.

Are Kerry Blue Terriers Aggressive?

To other animals, they do have a tendency to get tough, though they will usually win over most guests in the average home. The dogs love people and won’t be aggressive or protective unless they perceive a threat. Outside of an individual dog being more jumpy than usual, people do not need to worry about their terrier becoming a bushy biter.

Do Kerry Blue Terriers Bark?

Like any good dog would, the Kerry blue terrier cares about the safety of their favorite people. Because of this, they tend to break out in a barrel-chested bark at a moment’s notice. Similarly, their negative opinion of every other dog or cat in creation can cause a shouting match that owners may not have expected from a new dog.

Thankfully, they are receptive to training and can be taught to adopt a more reserved temperament, but it will take time. They can be a handful for folks with less time on their hands or homeowners who have to worry about noise complaints, though. Anyone looking for a quieter breed may want to pursue other options if they cannot spare the free time.

Are Kerry Blue Terriers Affectionate?

Few things are more heartbreaking than a dog that doesn’t want to spend one-on-one time with their owner. Thankfully, the Kerry blue terrier is over the moon at the chance to plop down next to their furless friends and enjoy a belly rub or two.

They won’t be on you constantly like some dogs may insist upon, though you may find a pleading paw on your knee a few times throughout the day. The dog can be a handful for different reasons, but few people familiar with the terrier complain about its personality; they are absolute charmers.

Are Kerry Blue Terriers Intelligent?

The Kerry blue terrier is a bright, bouncing bulb with an inquisitive nose that will sniff through several areas of your home and yard. The dogs are by no means dull and are considered above average, with notable mental muscles. The downside is they can be prone to fits of dignified defiance where they will choose to listen to their whims rather than their owners.

However, they are very cognizant of their environment and can make cunning hunters and work dogs. They can also be incredibly obedient and quick to learn if trained to be more attentive when their owners need them to be.

Are Kerry Blue Terriers Energetic?

They have a leggy frame with a good stretch of muscle along their body that has given them ample energy that will need to be exhausted on a daily basis. The breed comes from hard-working stock and deserves an owner who can give it tasks, activities, or playtime that allow the terrier to have a bit of fun.

This is not just good for the terrier; owners will appreciate the much more tame evening hours of a well-ran Kerry blue over the more hyper, mischievous alternative.

Owners who want a compact dog that can help them unwind with some enthusiastic playtime and hilarious terrier antics will adore this breed. Contrarily, they can be quite a handful for people with full schedules and are difficult dogs for first-time owners.

Are Kerry Blue Terriers Easy to Train?

They will require some time to get used to the process of one-on-one training or obedience classes. With positive encouragement and a patient owner, they will be very capable, helpful animals. They can learn most tricks with enough time, though owners may find their willful dog difficult on occasion.

They are more than happy to do agility training, and their swiftness and maneuverability are very impressive to see. It may take some time to get the dog into a more attentive and obedient headspace, however. With time, they will love every second of the active physical requirements agility training requires.

Are Kerry Blue Terriers Good Watchdogs?

While they may not strike fear into the hearts of home intruders like a cane corso, they will show off an impressive set of pipes that will make any burglar cautious. They have very sharp senses and are naturally protective of their home and humans. The broad-chested blue terrier may not be able to fend off intruders, though he has enough courage to certainly try.

Their admirably courageous character can also translate to other parts of the home. They can be taught to keep out foxes and other four-legged felons trying to break into a coop or pen and are perfectly suited for the watchdog role.

The breed is an excellent choice if a person wants a medium-sized guard dog, particularly for people with allergies.

Are Kerry Blue Terriers Good Service Dogs?

The unique personality of a dog and its upbringing will always play a big part in how suitable a dog is for service tasks. The average Kerry blue is a superb candidate, however, with a sweet nature, sharp mind, and steadfast devotion. They are great for leading those with visual impairments and will adapt to the lofty role well.

They aren’t the biggest dogs out there, but they’re a hefty breed with a surprising amount of muscle that can sincerely help several people in need of mobility assistance.

In an emotional support position, the dog has a surprising amount of emotional empathy and can quickly adapt to helping people who may need help throughout the day. They are heartwarmingly kind and comforting to humans and will make wonderful support dogs.

How to Care for a Kerry Blue Terrier?

Any dog with as much personality, pep, and potential as the Kerry blue terrier will always take some work from the owner. They will need regular exercise to keep healthy and happy, along with a few trips to the groomer to keep their coat from getting out of control. Thankfully, they are not a dog that leaves a trail of tufts wherever it goes.

Do You Need to Groom a Kerry Blue Terrier?

While they may not shed nearly as much as other breeds, they have a beautiful outer layer of deep, dense fur that needs to be maintained daily. Thankfully, the process is not gratuitous and should not take more than a few minutes. Their coat grows quickly, however, and will need to be trimmed regularly to keep the terrier cool in the summer months.

While brushing, look in and around the ears gently for any signs of irritation or dirt accumulation. Both can be done at the end of their playtime when they are less likely to get fur matted or dirty from leaping into an attractive puddle.

Their nails should be looked after to avoid growing too long and causing discomfort to the Kerry blue. Similarly, their teeth must be cleaned every few days to prevent plaque, disease, or poor oral hygiene.

Do Kerry Blue Terriers Shed?

Sufferers of allergies always have a fine line to draw where they want to be able to run their hands through the soft coat of a happy dog while also avoiding a night of itchy eyes. Because of this, they usually choose a breed with a very thin or non-existent coat to lessen the likelihood of an adverse reaction.

The Kerry blue terrier is a wonderful middle-ground with a thick, beautiful coat that is hypoallergenic and rarely sheds. They will not cover carpets, and canine allergies will be far more manageable. They still need to be brushed regularly, though it won’t come off their frame in huge handfuls of hair.

What Health Problems Do Kerry Blue Terriers Have?

The breed can have a few health problems that may arise and are common amongst Kerry blue terriers.

The most common health problems of the breed are:

• Hip dysplasia
• Cancer
• Cataracts
• Patellar luxation
• Entropion
• Dermatitis

The biggest problem areas of the breed will usually be in their skin and eyes. Owners should be wary of these areas and pay close attention to any changes underneath the coat or in the eyes of the dog. Regular vet visits can lessen the likelihood of diseases progressing to more advanced stages.

How Long Do Kerry Blue Terriers Live?

The Kerry blue terrier will reach the ages of twelve to fifteen on average, though this can vary from dog to dog.

What Should a Kerry Blue Terrier Eat?

The diet of any individual dog will always differ somewhat depending on their lifestyle, medical history, or size. For the average Kerry, they will need a diet of protein and vitamin-rich food that is designed for active medium-sized breeds. One and a half to two cups of food should be given to an adult Kerry blue terrier twice a day.

Younger pups should stick to the diet they were on when they were adopted until they mature, where owners should adjust the type of food and amount.

Is a Kerry Blue Terrier the Right Dog for Me?

Canine enthusiasts with bad allergies will fall in love with this breed, as they have lovely personalities with a sympathetic set of fur that scarcely sheds. Similarly, people who enjoy an hour or two of playtime with a hilariously charming terrier will have a tremendous relationship with the dog.

People who want a dog that will immediately obey commands will not do well. Anyone who cannot spare the time needed to exercise the breed may benefit from a more passive pooch who can accommodate that lifestyle better. The terrier is going to have a huge hurdle to overcome if they are in a house with other pets, though puppies can learn to adjust.

They are beautiful, bubbly dogs that can become companions that will never be forgotten, but they need someone experienced who can be patient, positive, and diligent.