Kerry Blue Terrier Breed Information

General Description

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a well-developed, muscular terrier, with a soft, dense coat. Their head is long but is in proportioned to their body, their nose is black with wide nostrils. They have V-shaped ears and are small in size.

General Health

Kerries are fairly healthy, but there are some genetic disorders that are prevalent in the breed. They are prone to eye problems such as Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eyes), cataracts, and entropion. They sometimes get cysts or tumorous growths in their skin, but these are rarely malignant.

Hereditary Illnesses

Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. Stiffness in your Kerry Blue'selbows or hips may become a problem for him, especially as he matures.

Character and Temperament

Strong-Willed, Affectionate, Loyal, Spirited, Alert, Gentle

Grooming

If you have just acquired a Kerry Blue and want to keep it looking as the well coifed canine they are famous for you should consider having it groomed every 6-8 weeks. This does not include the daily maintenance of ear, eye and tooth cleaning, nor the weekly duty of brushing

Origin

Originating in the mountainous regions of western and southern Ireland, the Kerry Blue Terrier was known as the resourceful farm dog for over a hundred years. It could hunt vermin, birds, and small game, retrieve both in water and on land, and even herd cattle and sheep.

Stats

Average Dog Size

19-20

Average Dog Weight

33-39

Average Bitch Size

17-18

Average Bitch Weight

33-39

Average Life Expectancy

13-15

Kerry Blue Terrier