Kerry Blue Terrier

Dog Breed Profile

Kerry Blue Terrier History

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a terrier breed of Irish origin. The Kerry Blue was named “Best in Show” at the 1879 Westminster Kennel Club show. The name “Kerry” refers to the county of their origin, while “Blue” is a reference to the distinctive colour of their coat. The Kerry Blue is a medium-to-large sized, blue and tan, rough-coated working terrier. The Kerry has a short, smooth coat and a long, hanging beard. The head is wedge-shaped, with a blunt muzzle. The ears are small and hang close to the cheeks. The eyes are wide-set and the nose is black. The tail is docked to approximately 1/3 of its original length. The “Blue” in the name refers to the color of the coat, which is a blue-grey shade, with darker grey patches. The “Kerry” in the name comes from the county of origin of this specific type of terrier, which is County Kerry in Ireland.

Time of Origin

1700s

Country of Origin

Ireland

Ancestry

Portuguese Water Dog, Irish Wolfhound, Irish Terrier

Kerry Blue Terrier Physical Characteristics

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a small-medium sized, long-haired terrier breed that is typically between 15 and 17 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 20 and 30 pounds. They have a soft, silky, blue-gray or wheaten colored coat that is longer than their height at the shoulders. They have a loose, bushy head with a nicely rounded skull and tapered muzzle. The eyes of the Kerry Blue Terrier are bright and they have dark, almond shaped eyes and a straight, pointed nose. The ears of the Kerry Blue are erect and long. They are intelligent, lively, alert dogs.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Unknown

Coat Colors

Unknown

Height Range

Male Height Range: 18 – 19 inches

Female Height Range: 17 – 19 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 33 – 40 lbs

Female Weight Range: 33 – 40 lbs

Kerry Blue Terrier Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

12-15 yrs

Kerry Blue Terrier Health Concerns

Hip Dysplasia, PNA, Cerebellar Abiotrophy, Cataract, Spiculosis, Narrow Palpebral Fissure Distichiasis, Congenital Heart Defect

Kerry Blue Terrier Temperament and Behaviour

The Kerry Blue Terrier is an outgoing and energetic dog. They are extremely friendly and sociable, and are great with children and adults. They are highly intelligent and are eager to please. They are protective of their families and will protect them if necessary.

Kerry Blue Terrier Activity Requirements

Rough-coated, intelligent, and rambunctious, the Kerry Blue Terrier is a loyal pup that is happiest when given a job to do. Originally bred for herding, the Kerry Blue is an excellent dog for an active owner. The strength of the Kerry Blue is in their stamina. They are well suited to long hikes and vigorous games of catch. They can also do well with agility or flyball. When considering a Kerry Blue, it is important to consider the environment in which they live. While they do very well in cold climates, they are sensitive to heat and tend to get overheated easily.