A Kerry Blue Terrier is a dog breed that comes from Kerry, Ireland. It was used for hunting, cattle herding, dog fighting, and guarding. Today, the Kerry is a companion and working dog.
History: The Kerry Blue Terrier originated in the 1700’s in the mountainous regions of County Kerry from which its name is derived. The Kerry is the national terrier of Ireland and has become a symbol of Ireland. Irish shepherds developed this breed by crossing the Irish terrier and the Dandie Dinmont terrier. Some say that the dog got its curly coat from the Portuguese water dog, while some experts believe that the breed was a cross of numerous dogs including the old black terriers, Spanish or Russian “blue dog”, soft-coated Wheaten terrier and possibly Irish wolfhounds.
Appearance: The Kerry Blue Terrier is a well-built, muscular, medium-sized dog with true terrier style and character. The breed has strong bones and muscular, well-balanced legs. The head is long, but not exaggerated, and in good proportion to the rest of the body. The skull is flat, with very slight stop, of moderate breadth between the ears, and narrowing very slightly to the eyes. The ears are v-shaped and crease above the skull to fall toward the outside corner of the dark, keen eye. They have soft wavy to curly coat that comes in several shades of blue (the term for “gray” in dog coats).
Size: Height: dogs – 18-19.5 inches (46-48 cm); bitches 17.5-19 inches (45-47 cm)
Weight: dogs – 33-40 pounds (15-17 kg); bitches - 30-35 pounds (13-15 kg)
Temperament: Vivacious and playful, determined and alert, boisterous and unrepressed, this dog has a way about it that makes people laugh and have fun. It rarely barks without provocation, and its determination allows it to conquer many challenges. Without being challenged, the Kerry blue terrier may develop stubborn traits. It is protective of its family, especially children and is very affectionate with people. They are fast, strong, and intelligent. They do well in obedience, dog agility, sheep herding, and tracking. They have been used as a police dogs in Ireland. Because they can be dog aggressive and vocal, socialization from puppyhood is an absolute necessity to prevent future problems and veterinary bills.
Health: This is usually a very healthy long-lived breed. Although watch for cancer, luxated patellar, hypothyroidism, juvenile cataracts, fry eye, cysts, entropian, hip dysplasia, PNA (progressive neural abiotrophy).
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Grooming: Kerries should be groomed every 6 weeks. Ear hair plucking is required as this breed is prone to ear infections and dirty ears. A very light shedder, this breed should be brushed and combed every week to keep coat silky, tangle free, and presentable. Frequent bathing will not dry out the skin as it does in so many other breeds. Bathing and combing every week is a must! It keeps them clean.
Puppy price: $200.00 - $1.000.00