Kerry Blue Terrier

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a breed of dog. Originally bred to control vermin including rats, rabbits, badgers, ferrets, foxes, otters, hares, deer, and even wolves, over time the Kerry became a general working dog used for a variety of jobs including herding cattle and sheep. Despite a Kerry Blue winning Crufts in 2000, it remains an "unfashionable" breed, and is distinctly uncommon; however, it is not as threatened as some of the other terrier breeds such as the Skye Terrier, Sealyham Terrier, and Dandie Dinmont Terrier.

Habitat

Developed in rural environments of Ireland, primarily used on farms.

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Characteristics

Male Weight: 15 kg
Female Weight: 13 kg
Height: 44–49 cm
Coat Length: Medium
Coat Type: Soft and wavy
Shedding Level: 2/5
Grooming Needs: Kerry Blue Terriers require regular grooming to maintain their coat. They need to be trimmed every 6 to 8 weeks and brushed a few times a week to prevent matting.
Life Expectancy: 12–15 yrs

Useful to know

The Kerry Blue Terrier was initially bred in Ireland for controlling vermin and later used for herding cattle and sheep. Known for its distinctive blue coat, the breed is intelligent and versatile. Despite being a past winner at Crufts, it remains an uncommon breed.

Gallery

Philip Doyle with his dog, "Terri", at the Killarney Show, 1916.

On the left, a 14-year-old

Temperament

TrainingKerry Blue Terriers are intelligent and can learn quickly, but they tend to be independent thinkers. Consistent and positive reinforcement training methods work best.

ExerciseThis breed needs daily exercise to expend its energy. Long walks and playtime are necessary to keep them happy and healthy.

Bark LevelModerate

Energy Level—

TraitsLoyal, Intelligent, Alert

Trainability

Responsiveness to training: —/5

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Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population