Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier has a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.
Origin
The Kerry Blue Terrier was developed in Ireland and first noticed in County Kerry more than 100 years ago. The Kerry Blue Terrier’s ancestors are thought to include the Irish Wolfhound, Black and Tan Terrier and Poodle. The Kerry Blue Terrier was bred to be an all-purpose working dog that could hunt and retrieve both on land and in water.
Size
The Kerry Blue Terrier weighs 30 to 45 pounds and measures 17 to 21 inches.
Grooming Needs
The Kerry Blue Terrier has a soft, wavy coat that sheds very little, but is rather high maintenance. The Kerry Blue Terrier’s coat should be brushed weekly to prevent mats and tangles from forming and bathed every four to six weeks. The coat also needs to be trimmed monthly. Finding a professional groomer who knows how to trim a Kerry Blue Terrier’s coat is rare so many owners learn how to do it themselves.
Like all dogs, the Kerry Blue Terrier also needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.
Character
The Kerry Blue Terrier is spirited and active.
Temperament
The Kerry Blue Terrier displays the typical terrier personality – proud, bold and playful. The Kerry Blue Terrier loves to be the center of attention and have fun. With their family and people they know, the Kerry Blue Terrier is happy and good natured. The Kerry Blue Terrier makes an especially good playmate for older children. In general, the Kerry Blue Terrier just likes being in the middle of the action and will grow unhappy and depressed if left alone for too long.
Although highly people-oriented, the Kerry Blue Terrier can be wary of strangers and other dogs. They make effective watchdogs and will sound the alarm if anyone or anything seems suspicious. Kerry Blue Terriers are not aggressive, but will also not back down if challenged, even by a much larger dog.
Training Needs
Although Kerry Blue Terriers are eager to please, they are not always eager to listen. They have the typical terrier stubbornness and require plenty of patience. However, Kerry Blue Terriers are intelligent and respond well to praise, clear boundaries and consistency. Once they have the basics down, they can go on to participate in earthdog trials, herding, agility and obedience.
Activity Level
The Kerry Blue Terrier is highly energetic and needs lots of exercise. Without regular activity, the Kerry Blue Terrier can act out and get into mischief. At the least, the Kerry Blue Terrier needs a long daily walk and time outside in a secure area to run around and play. They can also make good jogging, hiking and biking companions and will appreciate games of fetch and Frisbee.
