Breed History:

The Kerry Blue Terrier, also known as the Irish Blue Terrier, originated in County Kerry, Ireland, in the 18th century. Though its exact ancestry is unclear, it likely descends from a mix of native Irish terriers and possibly the Portuguese Water Dog or Wheaten Terrier. It was bred to be a versatile farm dog, capable of hunting vermin, guarding the home, and herding livestock.

The breed gained wider recognition during the early 20th century and became closely associated with Irish heritage. Selective breeding preserved its athleticism, distinctive blue coat, and confident temperament while enhancing its suitability as a family companion. Today, the Kerry Blue Terrier is admired for its versatility, loyalty, and spirited personality.

Today, the Kerry Blue Terrier is admired as a loyal family companion, versatile working dog, and spirited terrier known for its intelligence, courage, and distinctive blue coat.

If you want to learn about other Terrier breeds, check out our page "Different Terrier Dog Breeds".

Size – Medium

Life Expectancy: 12–15 years

Breed Appearance:

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a medium-sized, muscular, and well-balanced dog with an elegant yet athletic build.

The breed commonly features:

• Long, well-proportioned head
• Strong, medium-length muzzle
• Dark, medium-sized eyes
• Small, V-shaped folded ears
• Deep chest
• Strong, muscular neck
• Well-developed limbs
• Medium-length tail carried upright where permitted

Its soft, dense, wavy coat is single layered and does not have an undercoat.

Common coat colours include:

• Blue
• Slate blue
• Blue grey

Puppies are born black and gradually develop their characteristic blue coat as they mature.

The breed's elegant outline and distinctive blue coat reflect its heritage as a hardworking Irish farm terrier.

Breed Type – Terrier:

The Kerry Blue Terrier is an intelligent, confident, and energetic terrier breed.

It is known for being:

• Loyal
• Intelligent
• Courageous
• Alert
• Affectionate
• Spirited

The breed forms strong bonds with its family and is generally affectionate with children when properly socialised. It may be assertive with unfamiliar dogs due to its strong terrier instincts.

Training:

The Kerry Blue Terrier is intelligent and eager to learn.

Training should focus on:

• Early socialisation
• Positive reinforcement methods
• Basic obedience training
• Recall training
• Leash manners
• Consistent leadership

The breed excels in:

• Agility
• Obedience
• Rally
• Tracking
• Herding
• Companion activities

Structured, reward-based training helps the breed become a confident and well-mannered companion.

Health & Care:

The Kerry Blue Terrier is generally healthy but may be prone to several health concerns, including:

• Hip dysplasia
• Hypothyroidism
• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Cataracts
  
• Skin cysts
• Cerebellar abiotrophy

Routine veterinary care, responsible breeding, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight help support long-term health.

Living Conditions:

The Kerry Blue Terrier adapts well to a variety of living environments provided it receives regular exercise and close family companionship.

Ideal environments include:

• Apartments with sufficient daily exercise
• Houses with secure yards
• Urban or suburban homes
• Active families
• Experienced or committed first-time dog owners

The breed prefers living indoors with its family and is not suited to prolonged isolation.

Exercise:

The Kerry Blue Terrier has high exercise requirements.

Recommended activities include:

• Daily walks
• Running
• Hiking
• Agility
• Interactive play
• Mental enrichment activities

Regular physical activity and mental stimulation are essential to maintain the breed's physical and mental well-being.

Grooming:

The soft, wavy coat requires high maintenance.

• Brushing three to four times per week
• Professional trimming every six to eight weeks
• Occasional bathing
• Routine ear cleaning and nail trimming
• Regular dental care

The breed sheds very little throughout the year.