Giant Kerry Blue Schnauzer

Dog Breed Profile

Giant Kerry Blue Schnauzer History

The Giant Kerry Blue Schnauzer, also known as the Giant Irish or Kerry Blue Terrier, is a medium size, terrier-type dog. The first modern breeding of the Giant Kerry was produced by the Moriarty family in 1955 in Ireland. The Giant Kerry is a sturdy, medium-sized, wiry-coated blue and tan speckled or roaned working terrier. The coat is straight but may be broken. It is never curly. The nose is black. Eyes are dark brown. The ears are hanging, V-shaped, with the top edge tight against the skull. The tail is docked to 3 inches.

Time of Origin

Unknown

Country of Origin

United States Of America

Ancestry

Giant Schnauzer, Kerry Blue Terrier

Giant Kerry Blue Schnauzer Physical Characteristics

The Giant Kerry Blue Schnauzer is a large, heavyset, long-haired breed of domestic dog, similar in appearance to the Standard Schnauzer, but much larger and heavier. They typically have a height range of 24 to 28 inches and a weight range of 150 to 200 pounds. They are working dogs with good temperaments, and possess a keen sense of smell. The breed was originally developed in Ireland as a cattle herding and water rescue dog.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Black

Coat Colors

Black, Silver, Blue, Gray

Height Range

Male Height Range: 20 – 26 inches

Female Height Range: 18 – 24 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 35 – 60 lbs

Female Weight Range: 33 – 58 lbs

Giant Kerry Blue Schnauzer Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

10-15 yrs

Giant Kerry Blue Schnauzer Health Concerns

Patellar Luxation, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Hip Dysplasia, Bloat, Cancer, Entropion, Hypothyroidism, Autoimmune Thyroiditis, Shoulder Osteochondrosis, Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye)

Giant Kerry Blue Schnauzer Temperament and Behaviour

The Giant Kerry Blue is a loyal and courageous breed of dog. They are highly intelligent and are easily trained and housebroken. They get along well with children, but can sometimes be aggressive with other dogs.

Giant Kerry Blue Schnauzer Activity Requirements

Giant Irish Setters are one of the tallest and heaviest of the terriers. They can weigh up to 100 pounds and stand 26 to 30 inches tall at the shoulder. While their size may seem intimidating, Giant Irish Setters are quite gentle. They are large, but calm, friendly, and easygoing. They need regular exercise in order to be happy, but they are not high strung or hyper. A home with a fenced yard is ideal for this large, energetic dog. While they don’t require a long or strenuous workout, they do need some space to run and play with their owners. A brisk daily walk, or a jog or hike on the weekends, will keep this sweet dog healthy and happy.