Kerry, Irish Blue Terrier
Overview
This versatile breed has the build of a dog able to perform a variety of tasks, all requiring athletic ability. It can run, herd, trail, retrieve, swim and dispatch vermin — the ideal all-around farm companion. In keeping with this, it is not exaggerated in build. It is an upstanding, long-legged terrier with a short back, displaying strong bones and muscle. Its coat is soft, dense, and wavy, and of a distinctive blue-gray color.
A versatile terrier, the Kerry blue's personality is multifaceted. It can guard, hunt, herd or just be a fun-loving companion. It needs daily mental and physical activity in a safe area. It loves to run, chase, hunt, explore, play and dig. Indoors, it is well-mannered. It can be protective toward strangers yet greet verified friends with great enthusiasm. It is apt to be aggressive toward other dogs and small animals. It is clever and independent, often stubborn. Some tend to bark.
| Size | Medium |
| Height | Male: 18½-20 inches (46-51 cm)Female: 17½-19 inches (44-48 cm) |
| Weight | 33-40 pounds (15-18 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Colors | Black Blue Silver Gray |
| Origin | Ireland |
| Classification | Purebred |
| Good Lapcat |
| Good In Apartments |
Kerry Blues are good for apartment life. They are fairly active indoors and a small yard will do. |
| Good With Children |
Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them. |
| Good With Dogs |
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| Good With Cats |
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| Exercise Needs |
Being a sporty dog, it enjoys long walks, but can go the occasional week without strenuous exercise. |
| Trainability |
Easy Training: Its handler must be very confident. It must be trained to ignore its natural inclination to fight other dogs. It has a knack for sports such as catch and agility training. |
| Affectionate |
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| Playfulness |
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| Grooming Requirements |
High Maintenance: The Kerry Blue's coat is high maintenance. It must be brushed daily and trimmed and shampooed every four to six weeks. Plan to comb a Kerry’s coat twice a week to prevent or remove any mats or tangles. The shape of the coat must be maintained with regular scissoring, usually monthly, which you can have done professionally or learn to do yourself. |
| Shedding |
Minimal Shedding: This dog will shed a negligible amount. Recommended for owners who do not want to deal with dog hair in their cars and homes. |
| Vocalization/Barking |
Frequent |