Kerry Blue Terrier

The Kerry Blue Terrier hails from County Kerry, Ireland, where it was originally bred as a versatile farm dog for hunting vermin, herding sheep, and guarding the property. The breed gained popularity in the early 20th century and became a symbol of Irish pride, even serving as the national dog of Ireland for a time. First shown in the Dublin dog shows in the 1910s, they were officially recognized by the AKC in 1924.

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• Height: 17–20 inches
• Weight: 30–40 pounds
• Coat: Soft, dense, and wavy/curly
• Colors: Born black; transitions to varying shades of blue-gray by 18 months
• Eyes: Dark and full of expression
• Build: Muscular, square build with an elegant profile

Their distinct coat texture and color change make them one of the most recognizable terrier breeds.

Kerry Blue Terriers require regular grooming and trimming to maintain their coat’s signature look.
Grooming Tips:

• Brushing: 2–3 times per week to prevent matting
• Professional grooming: Every 6–8 weeks
• Bathing: Monthly, or as needed
• Ears, Nails, Teeth: Weekly cleaning of ears, monthly nail trims, and teeth brushing 2–3 times a week

Moderately active but full of spirit, Kerry Blue Terriers need 60–75 minutes of exercise daily.
Exercise Ideas:

• Structured walks and interactive play
• Agility or obedience classes (they excel in both!)
• Mental stimulation like puzzle toys or hide-and-seek games
• Fenced playtime (they may chase small animals)

Without enough activity, this breed can become bored and develop nuisance behaviors such as digging or barking.

Smart but strong-willed, the Kerry Blue Terrier benefits from early, firm, and consistent training.
Training Insights:

• Begin socialization early to reduce aggression toward other animals
• Use positive reinforcement — they respond well to praise and rewards
• Avoid harsh corrections — this can make them stubborn
• Thrive in structured environments like obedience or trick training

They are natural watchdogs, so it’s important to balance protective instincts with social manners.

Kerry Blues do well on a balanced, high-protein diet appropriate for their activity level.
Feeding Guidelines:

• Adults: 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day, split into two meals
• Opt for high-quality kibble with real meat as the first ingredient
• Monitor their weight — they’re prone to becoming overweight if under-exercised
• Consider joint support supplements for active or aging dogs

Though less common than other terriers, reputable breeders and rescues exist.
Resources:

• Canadian Kennel Club – Kerry Blue Terrier
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Breeder Questions:

• Has the puppy’s coat started changing color?
• What kind of socialization has the puppy had?
• Are there any known hereditary skin or eye issues in the lineage?

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Do Kerry Blue Terriers get along with other pets?
Not always. Early socialization is crucial — many have a high prey drive and may not tolerate same-sex dogs.

Are they good for families with kids?
Yes, if well-trained. They're playful and protective, but supervision with young children is recommended.

Do they shed?
No, Kerry Blues are low-shedding, but their coat requires regular trimming and maintenance.

Can they live in apartments?
Yes, provided they receive daily exercise and mental stimulation. They adapt well to smaller spaces.

Are they easy to train?
They’re intelligent but headstrong. With patience and consistency, they can excel in obedience and tricks.