Kerry Blue Terrier

Irish Blue Terrier, Irish Terrier
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Kerry Blue Terrier is a medium-sized, blue-gray coated dog breed that originated in Ireland. They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and spirited nature.

Origin and Purpose

  • Ireland
  • General farm dog, herding, hunting vermin and birds, family companion

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female17.5-19 inches33-40 pounds
Male18-19.5 inches33-40 pounds

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Any shade of blue gray, from light to dark
Type
  • Soft, dense and wavy
Length
  • Medium

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Low
Grooming
  • Regular, brushing 2-3 times a week, professional trimming required
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Long and strong
Skull
  • Flat and moderately broad
Ears
  • Small to medium-sized, v-shaped, carried forward or close to the sides of the head
Eyes
  • Dark, small to medium size
Nose
  • Black
Muzzle
  • Moderately long
Teeth
  • Scissor bite
Neck
  • Moderately long, well arched
Forequarters
  • Shoulders sloping and well laid back
Fore Legs
  • Straight and parallel
Hindquarters
  • Strong and muscular
Hind Legs
  • Well developed
Feet
  • Small, round, and compact with thick pads
Tail
  • Set on high, carried upright and slightly curved
Gait
  • Free and light with good reach and drive

Temperament

  • Alert, intelligent, spirited, loyal, courageous, can be stubborn

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Very Affectionate
Good with Children
  • Good, with supervision
Good with Dogs
  • Can be selective, early socialization recommended
Good with Cats
  • May not be suitable, unless socialized early
Openness to Strangers
  • Reserved
Playfulness Level
  • Playful
Protective Nature
  • Protective
Adaptability Level
  • Adaptable

Working Roles

  • Herding, hunting, farm work, family companion

Exercise Needs

  • Moderate to High, daily walks and playtime

Health

  • Generally healthy, but can be prone to hip dysplasia, eye issues, and skin conditions.

Additional Notes

  • Requires early socialization and training. Requires regular grooming and professional trimming

References