Kerry Wheaten

Dog Breed Profile

Kerry Wheaten History

The Kerry Blue Terrier (Irish: Ciarraige Bheag, Scottish Gaelic: Cearaigh Beag) is a type of terrier originating in Ireland, which is known for the vivid colouring of its fur. It is related to the Irish Red and White Setter and the Irish Soft-Coated Wheaten-Harrier. The Kerry Blue Terrier is an Irish breed of small, sturdy, and agile working farm dog. It is also known as the “Terrier of Ireland”, “Blue Tinker”, “Slievenamon” and “Kerry Blue” (also “the blue-away”).

Time of Origin

Unknown

Country of Origin

Ireland

Ancestry

Kerry Blue Terrier, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

Kerry Wheaten Physical Characteristics

The Kerry Wheaten is a small, medium-sized, longhaired breed of sheepdog that typically stands between 16 and 19 inches tall at the shoulders and weighs between 35 and 70 pounds. They have a soft, dense, wavy coat that is reddish wheat in color with white markings. They have a rectangular head with pointed ears and dark eyes. The Kerry Wheaten is energetic and alert. They are intelligent and easy to train.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Black

Coat Colors

Blue, Gray, Brown, Fawn

Height Range

Male Height Range: 18 – 19 inches

Female Height Range: 17 – 18 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 33 – 37 lbs

Female Weight Range: 33 – 36 lbs

Kerry Wheaten Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

12-15 yrs

Kerry Wheaten Health Concerns

Hip Dysplasia, Familial Nephropathy, Hypoadrenocorticism, Patent Ductus Arteriosis (PDA), Retinal Dysplasia, Cerebellar Abiotrophy, Von Willebrand’s Disease, Bleeding Disorder, Microphthalmia, Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca

Kerry Wheaten Temperament and Behaviour

The Kerry Wheaten is a playful and outgoing dog. They are extremely friendly and sociable, and get along well with everyone. They are easy to train and are usually well-behaved, but they can be willful and stubborn at times.

Kerry Wheaten Activity Requirements

The Kerry Wheaten is a very athletic breed of dog. Originally bred for herding, they are intelligent, energetic, and adaptable. They are also very good-natured and loyal. The Kerry Wheaten has a moderate energy level, but they do require regular exercise. They are not as active as some other breeds, but they are generally happiest when they have a job to do. Since they are a high-energy, smart, and active dog, the Kerry Wheaten does best in a home with a fenced yard. While they don’t need a full-time dog walker, they do need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.