 The Kerry Blue Terrier is the official "National Dog of Ireland". They existed as a distinct breed in Ireland for well over 100 years. The breed caught the attention of dog fanciers in the early 1900's and in 1916 they were shown in competition as the "Irish Blue Terriers". Five Kerry Blues were exported to America in 1918. In 1922 the Kerry Blue Terrier was shown at the Cruft's Dog Show in England for the first time. That same year, four Kerry Blue Terriers were shown in the miscellaneous class at The Westminster Kennel Club Show and the breed was officially recognized by the AKC. |  |
The breed originated in the mountains of County Kerry, around Lake Killarney. They were family companions and watchdogs on the farms in this area of Southern Ireland. Farmers used them to kill rodents and to herd sheep and cattle. They retrieve on land and water, and were also used to hunt small game and game birds. In England, Kerry Blues have been trained as police dogs. The AKC describes the Kerry Blue Terrier as "an all-round working and utility terrier". The Kerry Blue is one of the larger terriers. It's average height is 18 to 19 inches at the withers and average weight is 33 to 40 pounds. It has a docked tail. (Tails are docked in the first few days of life.) Their striking blue coat requires a considerable amount of grooming. A weekly brushing, with special attention to the "beard" is essential. Many breeders and groomers recommend daily brushing to keep the skin and coat in top condition and mat-free. A trip to the doggie salon for a bath and a professional trim is needed at least every 6 weeks. This is a healthy, hardy breed with few genetic problems. It's not uncommon for well-cared for Kerry Blues to live to age 15. Their average life expectancy is 14. The most common health concerns are skin tumors and eye problems - Entropian (turned in eyelids) and tear deficiencies. Buy a Kerry Blue from a reputable breeder and always check for hip and eye certifications. They are affectionate and exceptionally loyal pets. They love everyone in their family and rarely become attached to just one person. Kerry Blue Terriers are wonderful companions for children. They enjoy rough and tumble play, chasing and retrieving games and outdoor fun. As with most dogs, a bit of watchful caution is advised around small children who are too young to understand that they must be kind and gentle to animals. Since they have a tendency to be aggressive and bossy around other dogs, early and frequent socialization with other dogs is essential. Kerry Blue Terriers do best in one dog families. They should be brought into multi-dog homes when they're puppies. Those who want to add an adult Kerry to their multi-dog home, should consider a rescue Kerry who has been in foster care and is known to get along well with other dogs. Kerry Blues have a strong prey drive, and are not recommended for homes with cats. Kerry Blues thrive on lots of attention and always want to be where the action is. They're full-of-fun and sometimes quite mischievous. Crating can prevent home-alone problems. Though they are generally eager to please, Kerry Blue Terriers also have a stubborn streak. Obedience training should be started early and must be followed by firm, consistent re-enforcement. Kerry Blue Terriers are intelligent, fast learners and do very well in obedience competition. They also compete in flyball and agility. They're very popular in the confirmation show ring! No article on this breed would be complete without mentioning "Ch. Torum's Scarf Michael". In 2000, this phenomenal Kerry Blue Terrier, commonly known as "Mick", won Best in Show at the Crufts dog show. In an unheard of feat, Mick attained his American championship in just three shows, winning Best of Show in all three! In December 2001, Mick won the gold at the Eukanuba Invitational Show in Orlando, Florida. On February 11th, Mick became a "Triple Crown Winner", when he won the coveted Best of Show award at the 2003 Westminster Kennel Club Show! Kerry Blue Terrier Links The United States Kerry Blue Terrier Club The Great Western Terrier Association Kerry Blue Terrier Clubs of the World
Kerry Blue Terrier puppies are born with all black coats. From the age of about 6 months to about 24 months, the color goes through gradual changes. The earlier the color begins to change, the lighter the eventual color. The color of a mature Kerry Blue is light, blue-gray to a deep, dark slate blue. Part of the head, face, ears, or tail might be distinctively darker. The dense coat is silky, soft and wavy, never wiry or harsh.
As guardians of home and family, Kerry Blues can always be counted on to sound an alarm by barking to warn of intruders. They'll also defend their property. Kerry Blues are formidable foes. They're assertive, determined, and will not back down from a fight.The AKC Kerry Blue Terrier Standard Kerry Blue Terrier Club of Southern California 
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This content was written by Sandy Moyer. If you wish to use this content in any manner, you need written permission. Contact Bettina Thomas-Smith for details.
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