Dog Breeds > Kerry Blue Terrier

The Kerry Blue Terrier

The Kerry Blue Terrier, also known as the Irish Blue Terrier, is a great breed but is uncommon. They are good work dogs and are used to hunt hares, rats, foxes and badgers that destroy crops. Nowadays, Kerry Blue Terriers are known as good companions but in some countries, they are still used as work dogs or guard dogs because of its skills.

Energy Playfulness Intelligence Grooming Popularity

Fascinating Facts

Besides hunting and tracking down rodents and vermin, Kerry Blue Terriers are also extremely skilled in herding sheep and cattle. It is named after the place where this breed was first noted in County Kerry in Ireland. The Kerry Blue Terrier became the National Dog of Ireland after Michael Collins, a famous leader in Ireland, owned a dog of this breed.

Physical Appearance

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a dog of medium size. It has a well-balanced and toned body with a long head. It has a flat skull, black nose and black eyes. Its ears are average in size but for the purpose of competing in dog shows, its ears are usually taped while the dog is still young. Early taping of ears will allow cartilage to fill it in until it reaches a permanent shape. Its tail is upright and of medium length. Its tail is sometimes shortened for aesthetic purposes but this is illegal in most European countries. The color of its coat is usually blue but there are also variants of black and blue-grey. They are sometimes usually born with darker coats but this will eventually lighten as they grow older.

Grooming

Kerry Blue Terriers need regular grooming every 2 months. Hair in the ear must be removed as this can cause ear infections. In addition to stripping, their coat also needs to be brushed twice a week. Unlike other Terrier breeds, this breed must be washed every week to keep them clean. Without regular bathing, they become stinky because of food debris stuck to their beard.

Mood

Kerry Blue Terriers are extremely friendly and less aggressive than other Terrier breeds. They mingle well with strangers and other animals and are very loving towards their owners. However with other dogs, they must be socialized at an earlier age. This breed is known to be lively, funny and very entertaining. They do not usually attack humans but may become aggressive if they are teased. It is essential to assert dominance over this breed so that they stay obedient to your commands.

With Children

Kerry Blue Terriers are friendly and playful with children. However, it is still recommended to supervise children since this dog enjoys rough play. Although unintentional, a small child may end up getting hurt with this dog’s roughness.

Training & Exercise

Kerry Blue Terriers are energetic and active and require daily exercise. They are athletic and are very good in various dog sports. Kerry Blue Terriers must be allowed to jog regularly with the owner taking the lead. This asserts the owner’s authority over the dog. They are intelligent and easy to train but firmness and authority is needed in teaching them obedience. Rules and limitations should also be introduced at an earlier age to prevent them from becoming too rowdy.

Health & Life Expectancy

This breed is generally healthy and usually live up to 15 years. However, there have been some cases of this breed having hip dysplasia, cataracts and hair follicle tumors. To maintain this breed’s health, regular exercise and a balanced diet will suffice.

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