Dog Breeds
 
 
 
 
YOU ARE HERE: Home » A to Z Dog Breeds » Kerry Blue Terrier
 
Kerry Blue Terrier
 
GROUP: Terrier • ORIGIN: Ireland • ORGINAL FUNCTION: Working Dog • COAT: Medium • COLOR: All Color • HEIGHT: 16 to 20 in • WEIGHT: 32 to 40 lb • LIFESPAN: 12-15 Years

Description:

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a focused hunter, loving companion, and a loyal guardian. A versatile member of the Terrier group, that loves to explore and have fun outside, while being well mannered and obedient inside its master’s home.

Kerry Blue Terrier's can be fun-loving, and playful with children, and often very affectionate. A dog that can be territorial, so it might be difficult to mix with other household pets. These dogs will go to all lengths to protect its family from intruders.

History Of The Kerry Blue Terrier:

The origins of the Kerry Blue Terrier date back to 1700's Ireland. Appearing in both the southern and northern regions, and first discovered in the Ring of Kerry, with its use as a trusted servant and all-round companion.

The Kerry Blue Terrier was soon to establish itself as an avid farm dog and an excellent hunter of vermin, birds, and other such small animals. Able to retrieve on land or in water, while herding sheep and cattle. The Kerry Blue Terrier remained almost a secret on Ireland for almost two centuries. It wasn't until later in the 1920's that the Kerry was to be noticed outside of northern and southern Ireland, with it appearing in England and the United States.

With the Kerry Blue Terrier appearing in show rings in England and America the popularity of the breed soon developed. In 1924 the breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Early versions of the Kerry weren't as striking, but with an improvement in standard and grooming practices, the breed went on to become the admired terriers that are seen today.

Kerry Blue Terrier Care:

To remain content this breed with require ample exercise on a daily basis. A couple of quick walks on a secure leash as well as some playtime outside should be sufficient. The Kerry Blue Terrier loves to remain active so a large outside area to roam in is perfect.

The dogs are able to tolerate cold and warm temperatures as long as its not in the extreme. In need of human companionship so it isn't recommended for a Kerry to sleep outside, be able to sleep with its family is ideal. Grooming consists of a good brushing once or twice per week, with a shaping and scissoring session needed once monthly.

Health Information:

Health problems seen with a Kerry Blue Terrier include cerebellar abiotrophy, spiculosis, otitis externa, entropion, CHD, and hair follicle tumors. Vets recommend that this breed is checked for eye and hip related concerns.

 
 

Read More in: Terriers

 
 
 
 
 
CLICK FOR MORE DETAILS
 
A - DOG BREEDS
American Staffordshire Terrier
 
 
 
 
B - DOG BREEDS
Beagle
 
 
 
 
C - DOG BREEDS
Chinese Crested Dog
 
 
 
D - DOG BREEDS
Dachshund
 
 
 
 
E - DOG BREEDS
English Springer Spaniel
 
 
 
 
F - DOG BREEDS
French Bulldog
 
 
 
 
G - DOG BREEDS
German Shepherd
 
 
 
 
H - DOG BREEDS
Hovawart
 
 
 
I - DOG BREEDS
 
 
 
 
J - DOG BREEDS
Jack Russell
 
 
 
 
K - DOG BREEDS
Keeshond
 
 
 
 
L - DOG BREEDS
Labrador Retriever
 
 
 
 
M - DOG BREEDS
Miniature Schnauzer
 
 
 
 
N - DOG BREEDS
Newfoundland