Kerry Blue Terrier Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders

Are you in search of a loyal and affectionate companion that can also double as a watchdog? If so, have you considered the Kerry Blue Terrier breed? This breed is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and playful nature, making it an excellent choice for families and individuals alike. While they may require some extra grooming and exercise, the Kerry Blue Terrier is a fantastic pet for those who are willing to put in the effort to keep them healthy and happy. In this article, we will dive into the history, characteristics, and care requirements of the Kerry Blue Terrier to help you determine if this breed is the right fit for you.

Breed Category: Terrier
Country of Origin: Ireland
Average Size:44-49 cm
Average Weight:15-18 kg
Average Life Span: 12-15 years
Grooming Requirements: High
Exercise Requirements:High

History and Origin

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a breed of dog that originated in Ireland, specifically in the County of Kerry. The breed was developed in the 1700s by Irish peasants who needed a dog that could hunt small game, guard their homes, and serve as a companion. The Kerry Blue Terrier was bred by crossing several different breeds, including the Irish Wolfhound, the Irish Terrier, and the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier.

The Kerry Blue Terrier was originally known as the Irish Blue Terrier, but the name was changed to the Kerry Blue Terrier in the early 1900s. The breed was recognized by the Irish Kennel Club in 1922 and by the American Kennel Club in 1924. Today, the Kerry Blue Terrier is a popular breed in many countries around the world, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a medium-sized dog that typically weighs between 30 and 40 pounds. The breed is known for its distinctive blue-gray coat, which is soft and wavy. The coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. The Kerry Blue Terrier is also known for its strong, muscular build and its high energy level. The breed is intelligent and trainable, but can be stubborn at times.

The Kerry Blue Terrier was originally bred for hunting small game, such as rabbits and foxes. The breed was also used as a guard dog and as a companion. In the early 1900s, the Kerry Blue Terrier became popular as a show dog, and breeders began to focus on developing the breed’s appearance and temperament for the show ring. Today, the Kerry Blue Terrier is still used as a hunting dog in some parts of the world, but is primarily kept as a companion and show dog.

The Kerry Blue Terrier has a long history in Ireland, and is considered to be a national treasure by many Irish people. The breed has been featured in Irish literature and folklore, and has even been used as a symbol of Irish nationalism. In recent years, the Kerry Blue Terrier has become more popular in other parts of the world, but it remains an important part of Irish culture and history.

In conclusion, the Kerry Blue Terrier is a unique and beloved breed of dog that has a long and fascinating history. From

Size and Breed Category

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a medium-sized dog breed that originated in Ireland. They typically weigh between 15-18 kg and stand at a height of 44-51 cm at the shoulder. Their coat is unique, as it starts off black at birth and gradually turns into a blue-grey color by the time they are 18 months old. The coat is soft and wavy, and requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Kerry Blue Terriers are known for their athleticism and agility, making them great companions for active families. They are also highly intelligent and trainable, making them a popular choice for obedience competitions.

The Kerry Blue Terrier falls under the category of terrier breeds, which are known for their feisty and energetic personalities. They were originally bred to hunt small game, such as rats and rabbits, and their tenacity and determination make them excellent hunters. Despite their hunting instincts, Kerry Blue Terriers are also known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners. They thrive on human companionship and make great family pets. However, they can be wary of strangers and may require early socialization to prevent aggression towards unfamiliar people or animals. Overall, the Kerry Blue Terrier is a unique and versatile breed that is well-suited for active families who are willing to provide them with plenty of exercise and attention.

Fur Length and Colour

The fur of the Kerry Blue Terrier is typically soft and wavy, with a dense undercoat. The length of the fur can vary, but it is usually around 6-7cm long. The fur on the head and legs is shorter than on the body, and the fur on the tail is longer and bushier. The fur colour of the Kerry Blue Terrier is unique, as it can range from a dark slate blue to a light blue-grey. The fur may also have black or silver highlights, giving it a shimmering appearance. The colour of the fur can change as the dog ages, with some dogs developing a lighter coat as they get older.

The Kerry Blue Terrier’s fur is hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for people with allergies. The fur is also low-shedding, which means that it requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. The fur should be brushed at least once a week, and trimmed every few months to maintain its length and shape. The Kerry Blue Terrier’s fur is an important part of its appearance, and it is often groomed and styled for dog shows and competitions. The fur can be trimmed into a variety of styles, including the traditional “Kerry clip” which involves shaving the fur on the body and leaving it longer on the legs and head.

Termperament and Trainability

Kerry Blue Terriers are known for their lively and energetic temperament. They are highly intelligent and require plenty of mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy. These dogs are very loyal to their owners and are always eager to please. They are also very protective of their family and can be wary of strangers. Kerry Blue Terriers are generally good with children, but they can be a bit too boisterous for very young kids. They are also known to be quite vocal, so they may not be the best choice for those who live in apartments or close quarters. Overall, Kerry Blue Terriers are a great choice for active families who are looking for a fun-loving and loyal companion.

When it comes to trainability, Kerry Blue Terriers are generally quite easy to train. They are very intelligent and eager to please, which makes them quick learners. However, they can be quite stubborn at times, so it’s important to be firm and consistent with training. Positive reinforcement methods work best with these dogs, as they respond well to praise and rewards. Kerry Blue Terriers are also very sensitive to their owner’s moods, so it’s important to remain calm and patient during training sessions. With the right approach, Kerry Blue Terriers can excel in obedience, agility, and other dog sports. They are also great at learning new tricks and commands, which makes them a fun and rewarding breed to train.

Known Health Conditions

Kerry Blue Terriers are prone to a number of health conditions, including hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly and can lead to arthritis and lameness. This condition is often hereditary and can be exacerbated by factors such as obesity and lack of exercise. Kerry Blue Terriers may also be prone to allergies, which can cause skin irritation, itching, and hair loss. Allergies can be caused by a variety of factors, including food, pollen, and dust mites. Treatment may involve identifying and avoiding the allergen, as well as medication to manage symptoms.

Another health condition that Kerry Blue Terriers may be prone to is cataracts, a clouding of the eye’s lens that can cause vision problems. Cataracts can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, age, and injury. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the cataract and restore vision. Kerry Blue Terriers may also be prone to a condition called von Willebrand’s disease, a bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency in a protein that helps blood clot. This condition can cause excessive bleeding from minor injuries or during surgery, and may require treatment with medication or blood transfusions.

Openness to Strangers

Kerry Blue Terriers are known for their friendly and outgoing nature towards strangers. They are a breed that loves to socialize and make new friends, whether it be with humans or other dogs. This makes them great companions for those who enjoy meeting new people and taking their furry friend along with them. Their eagerness to interact with strangers also makes them excellent candidates for therapy work, as they are able to provide comfort and companionship to those in need.

In addition to their sociable nature, Kerry Blue Terriers are also known for their intelligence and adaptability. They are quick learners and are able to adjust to new environments and situations with ease. This makes them great travel companions, as they are able to handle the stress of new surroundings and unfamiliar people. Their adaptability also makes them great family pets, as they are able to adjust to the needs and routines of their owners. Overall, the Kerry Blue Terrier is a breed that is open and welcoming to strangers, making them a great addition to any social setting.

Playfulness Level

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a highly energetic and playful breed of dog. They are known for their love of play and their ability to keep their owners entertained for hours on end. Whether it’s playing fetch, chasing after a ball, or simply running around in circles, the Kerry Blue Terrier is always up for a good time. They are also highly intelligent and love to learn new tricks and commands, making them a great choice for owners who enjoy training their pets. Overall, the Playfulness Level of the Kerry Blue Terrier is high, and they are sure to bring a lot of joy and laughter to any household.

In addition to their playful nature, the Kerry Blue Terrier is also known for their love of socializing. They are a very friendly breed and enjoy spending time with both humans and other dogs. They are also very loyal and protective of their owners, making them a great choice for families with children. However, due to their high energy levels, they do require a lot of exercise and stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. This can include daily walks, runs, or playtime in a fenced-in yard. Overall, the Kerry Blue Terrier is a fun-loving and social breed that is sure to bring a lot of joy and happiness to any household that welcomes them.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

Kerry Blue Terriers are a lively and energetic breed, making them a great choice for families with children who have an active lifestyle. They are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature towards their owners, and are often described as being playful and fun-loving. With proper training and socialization, Kerry Blue Terriers can make excellent companions for children, as they are generally patient and tolerant of their antics. However, it is important to note that they can be strong-willed and require consistent training to prevent any unwanted behaviour. Overall, the Kerry Blue Terrier can be a great addition to a family with children who are willing to put in the time and effort to properly care for and train their pet.

Exercise Needs

Kerry Blue Terriers require a moderate amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. They are an active breed that enjoys daily walks and playtime in a secure, fenced area. A minimum of 30 minutes of exercise per day is recommended, but they will happily engage in more vigorous activities such as running, hiking, and swimming. It is important to note that Kerry Blue Terriers have a high prey drive and should always be kept on a leash or in a secure area to prevent them from chasing after small animals.

In addition to physical exercise, Kerry Blue Terriers also require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They are intelligent dogs that enjoy learning new tricks and participating in obedience training. Puzzle toys and interactive games can also provide mental stimulation and keep them entertained. It is important to provide a variety of activities to prevent them from becoming bored with their routine. Overall, Kerry Blue Terriers are an active and intelligent breed that require both physical and mental exercise to thrive.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Kerry Blue Terriers have been known to coexist peacefully with other pets in the household. They are generally friendly and sociable, and with proper socialization and training, they can learn to get along with other animals. However, as with any breed, individual temperament and personality can vary, and some Kerry Blues may be more prone to aggression or dominance towards other pets. It is important to introduce new pets slowly and carefully, and to supervise interactions until you are confident that they can be trusted together.

Housing Requirements

Kerry Blue Terriers require a living space that is suitable for their size and energy levels. They are an active breed that requires daily exercise, so a house with a garden or access to a nearby park is ideal. The garden should be securely fenced to prevent the Kerry Blue Terrier from escaping, as they have a tendency to wander off if left unsupervised. Inside the house, they require a comfortable and warm space to rest, with access to fresh water and food. It is important to note that Kerry Blue Terriers are prone to separation anxiety, so they should not be left alone for long periods of time.

In terms of grooming, Kerry Blue Terriers require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling of their curly coat. They also require regular trips to the groomer for trimming and shaping of their coat. As they are prone to ear infections, their ears should be checked and cleaned regularly. Additionally, their teeth should be brushed regularly to prevent dental issues. Overall, Kerry Blue Terriers require a dedicated owner who is willing to provide them with the necessary exercise, grooming, and attention to ensure they live a happy and healthy life.

Summary

Kerry Blue Terriers have a lively and affectionate personality, making them a great choice for families with children or active individuals. They are intelligent and trainable, but can be stubborn at times. They require regular exercise and grooming, but are generally healthy and have a long lifespan. Overall, the Kerry Blue Terrier can make a wonderful companion for those who are willing to provide them with the attention and care they need.

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