Read About Kerry Blue Terrier

Kerry Blue Terrier's are lively and entertaining dogs. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed..

Quick Kerry Blue Terrier Summary:

1. Size:

   Medium Dog Breed

2. Weight:

   33-40 lbs

3. Coat:

   Medium haired

4. Shedding:

   Low Shedding

5. Temperament:

   Gentle

6. Obedience:

   Good Obedience

7. Ease of Training:

   Moderately Easy

8. Way with Children:

   Good with Children

Kerry Blue Terrier - Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Terrier;1924

2. Size & Weight:

   17.5-20 inches tall, 33-40 lbs

3. Coat:

   Kerry Blue Terrier's have a soft, thick and wavy coat.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   Their head is long and is in proportion to their body. The muzzle is strong and the ears are small and v-shaped.

5. Body:

   Kerry Blue Terrier's have a muscular body. They have a moderately long neck and deep chest.

6. Colors:

   According to the AKC acceptable colors at maturity are any shade of blue-gray or gray-blue from deep slate to light blue gray.

7. Life Expectancy:

   12-15 years

8. Popularity:

   In a 2005 popularity ranking by the AKC they were ranked 105 out of 154 breeds.

9. Habitat:

   The Kerry Blue Terrier will do fine living in an apartment. They are fairly active indoors. Having a small yard is best so they have a safe place to run leash free.

Kerry Blue Terrier - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Ireland

2. Historical Information:

   The Kerry Blue Terrier was originally developed in the 1700's in County Kerry Ireland. They are the national terrier and symbol of Ireland. They were originally used to hunt small game, as a retriever and as a herding and farm dog.

Kerry Blue Terrier - Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Kerry Blue Terrier's are loving and affectionate.

2. Behavior:

   They can be stubborn and they love to romp and play.

3. Habits:

   Kerry Blue Terrier's rarely bark and are good at dog sports.

Kerry Blue Terrier - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   This is a generally healthy breed but some are prone to hip dysplasia, PNA and cerebellar abiotrophy. Minor concerns are cataracts, spiculosis and hair follicle tumors.

2. Exercise Needs:

   Kerry Blue Terrier's love long walks but can adapt to occasional periods of no exercise.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Kerry Blue Terrier's need to be professionally groomed every 6 weeks. They need to be bathed, brushed and combed every week. Trim the hair from their ear canals on a regular basis.

4. Travel Needs:

   For the safety of yourself as well as your Kerry Blue Terrier, using a safety belt harness is best while traveling in the car. This will keep him comfortable while preventing him from roaming around the car possibly causing injury to himself or others.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Kerry Blue Terrier's are good with kids and other pets. They can be dog aggressive so they should be socialized early.

Kerry Blue Terrier -- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Look for bright and clear eyes, healthy coat and skin and clean ears that are free of parasites.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   Things to have on hand for your new puppy are: a good puppy food, a brush for grooming, toys and a crate or kennel.

3. Puppy-proofing your house:

   Keep all small objects out of reach.

4. How to make your new puppy feel at home:

   Your new puppy may seem shy and intimidated at first. Provide them with a quiet and comfortable place to sleep. Let them explore their new surroundings and get familiar with their new home. Use interactive dog toys to play with your new puppy so you can get to know each other. With lots of love and interaction your new puppy will feel at home in no time.