Kerry Blue Terrier

Kerry Blue Terrier dog

Versatile Irish terrier known for its distinctive blue coat and bold personality.

Size Weight Height Lifespan
Medium 30 - 40 lbs 17 - 20 inches 12 - 15 years
(These are estimates and may vary.)

Origin: Ireland



Own a Kerry Blue Terrier? Share what activities they enjoy to help other dog owners.

Running Digging Swimming Exploring Playing with Toys Obedience Training Tracking Herding Fetch Hiking Socializing Tug Of War Frisbee Chewing Agility Training Cuddling Guarding Hunting

Know a Kerry Blue Terrier? Share their personality traits to help other dog owners.

Clever Protective Affectionate Stubborn Confident Fearless Friendly Docile Energetic Calm Patient Aggressive Gentle Sociable Adaptable Playful Independent Clever Agile Loyal

May be a good fit if you:

  • Want a dog that is generally responsive to consistent, positive training.
  • Are looking for a breed that generally does well with children.
  • Are a first-time dog owner looking for a relatively approachable breed.

Things to consider:

  • This breed may not do well when left alone for long periods.
  • Coat maintenance may require significant regular grooming.

The Kerry Blue Terrier developed in Ireland as a versatile working farm dog capable of handling many different jobs. Its precise early ancestry is uncertain, but blue-grey terriers were established in Ireland by the 19th century, particularly in County Kerry and surrounding regions. Farmers valued dogs that could control rats and other vermin, hunt rabbits and larger quarry, guard property, and even help with livestock. Unlike a terrier developed for one highly specialized task, the Kerry needed to be adaptable. Puppies are born dark, with the characteristic blue-grey colour developing gradually as they mature. The breed became closely connected with Irish national identity during the early 20th century. Enthusiasts established the Dublin Irish Blue Terrier Club in 1920, and Kerry Blues appeared at some of the first shows organized by the newly formed Irish Kennel Club. One colourful part of the breed's early show history was the use of working trials intended to demonstrate courage and practical ability before a dog could earn major honours. The Kerry later spread internationally and became primarily a companion and show dog. Its muscular build, strong prey drive, confidence, and distinctive coat still reflect its origins as an all-purpose Irish farm terrier.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kerry Blue Terrier

The Kerry Blue Terrier is generally considered hypoallergenic, but no dog is completely allergen-free. Individual reactions can vary.

The Kerry Blue Terrier tends to shed relatively little, although coat care is still important.

The Kerry Blue Terrier tends to need significant regular grooming and coat maintenance.

The Kerry Blue Terrier is generally a high-energy breed that tends to enjoy an active routine.

The Kerry Blue Terrier tends to need plenty of regular physical activity and mental stimulation.

The Kerry Blue Terrier is generally highly trainable and tends to respond well to consistent, positive training.

The Kerry Blue Terrier generally tends to do well with children when properly socialized and supervised.

The Kerry Blue Terrier may be selective around other dogs, making careful socialization and introductions important.

The Kerry Blue Terrier is generally considered relatively approachable for first-time dog owners.

The Kerry Blue Terrier generally tends to adapt well to apartment living when its exercise and enrichment needs are met.