Kerry Blue TerrierCharacteristics, history, training and care

The FCI standard says that, like the other Irish terrier breeds, the Kerry Blue has probably existed in Ireland for centuries, but, being a humble ratter and farm dog, it hardly appears in writing before the 20th century. The first probable reference dates from 1847 and describes a slate-blue dog with darker patches, found mainly in County Kerry.

The breed first appeared at shows in 1913, and the Dublin Blue Terrier Club was founded in 1920. It became a kind of mascot for Irish patriots; Wikipedia says the nationalist leader Michael Collins owned a famous Kerry Blue and tried to make it the national breed of Ireland. By 1928 the breed had become popular all over the world.

How the breed developed

• 1847 – The first probable reference to the breed.
• 1913 – Its first appearance at shows.
• 1920 – The Dublin Blue Terrier Club is founded.
• 1922–1924 – The breed clubs hold six shows and six working trials.
• 2 April 1963 – The FCI recognises the breed.
• 2000 – A Kerry Blue wins “Best in Show” at Crufts.

Indicative rating: 5 stars means the highest level. It is based on the ratings the American Kennel Club gives the breed and on the FCI standard.

It is a muscular, well-developed terrier with true terrier character. The AKC says it stands under 50 cm at the withers and weighs up to 18 kg. Males have a stronger head and are more muscular than females.

General appearance

The head has plenty of hair, the nose is black, and the expression must be keen and alert. The coat is soft, abundant and wavy and, according to the AKC, so soft that it is pleasant to touch.

The colour is blue, in any shade, with or without black tips. Black is accepted only up to the age of 18 months, as is a reddish tinge: the blue colour settles with age.

The AKC says the Kerry Blue is very intelligent and that most of them enjoy dog sports: agility, obedience, rally, barn hunt, herding and even dock diving.

Socialisation is important, as is an obedience course with an instructor who has worked with terriers. The AKC gives it a low score for getting along with other dogs.

Tips for effective training

• Socialise it in puppyhood. Especially with other dogs.
• Choose an instructor who knows terriers. The advice comes from the AKC.
• Keep its mind busy. Dog sports make it a well-balanced dog.
• Be consistent. It has terrier character.

The AKC says it has “two speeds”: it enjoys exercise outdoors, playing ball or running alongside its owner, but also quiet time beside the family. Above all, it wants to be where its people are.

Tips for a balanced life

• It suits active families.
• Supervise it around unfamiliar dogs.
• Keep it close to the family.

Coat and skin care

The AKC says it does not shed, so the coat must be brushed and combed thoroughly once a week to prevent matting. A full trim every 6–8 weeks keeps it easy to care for.

Common health problems

The AKC says most Kerry Blues are healthy. As with all breeds, the following can occur:

Other care

• Check the ears regularly.
• Brush its teeth often.
• Trim the nails regularly.

The AKC says some dogs gain weight easily, so calories and weight should be watched.

Tips for a healthy diet

The table gives a starting estimate, calculated with the formula from the Merck Veterinary Manual. The first two calorie columns show the calories per day for a healthy adult dog. The last column shows what this means in dry food with 3,500–4,000 kcal per kilogram.

• Give it its food in two meals a day.
• Treats count towards the daily portion.
• A dog is at the right weight when you can feel its ribs under the coat without pressing hard.

Foods to avoid

Some human foods are dangerous for dogs: chocolate, coffee, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (a sweetener used in chewing gum), macadamia nuts and alcohol.

Physical and emotional maturity

In dogs, sexual maturity usually comes between 6 and 12 months. Most breeds become adults at around 13–15 months.

Mating and pregnancy

Pregnancy lasts about 63 days, counted from ovulation. Mating a female on her first heat is not recommended. The FCI standard requires that only healthy dogs of typical breed appearance are used for breeding.

Caring for the puppies

In dogs, a litter has 5–6 puppies on average, and the number rises with the size of the breed. Socialisation starts in the first weeks: gentle handling, everyday noises and new people.

• Blue with age. The standard accepts black only up to 18 months.
• It does not shed. The AKC says its coat practically does not fall out.
• An otter hunter. The standard says it hunted otters in deep water.
• The patriots' mascot. It became a symbol of Irish patriots.
• A breed at risk. Wikipedia says that in the 21st century it is an endangered breed.

Michael Collins and Convict 224

Wikipedia says the Irish nationalist leader Michael Collins owned a famous Kerry Blue called Convict 224 and tried to make the Kerry Blue the national breed of Ireland.

Does the Kerry Blue Terrier shed?

Practically not, but the coat must be brushed weekly and trimmed every 6–8 weeks.

How big does it get?

Males measure 45.5–49.5 cm and weigh 15–18 kg; females are slightly smaller.

Can it be black?

Only up to 18 months; an adult must be blue.

How long does it live?

The AKC gives 12–15 years.