Kerry Blue Terrier Dog Breed | Kerry Blue Terrier - Dog Breed
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Kerry Blue Terrier - Dog Breed
The Breed History
In counties Kerry, Tipperary, and elsewhere in Ireland the breed was selected as an all-round utility dog for the farm. It is reported that the Soft-coated Wheaten terrier, perhaps the Irish Wolfhound, and Bedlington and Welsh terriers contributed to breed development. Much of the breed development occurred in the 1800s. The breed standard was written in 1922. First exports to the USA occurred in 1918. The AKC first recognized the breed in 1924.
Breeding for Function
Some of the tasks the Kerry Blue excelled at included dry and wet retrieving, small game hunting, birddog, and sheep and cattle herding. Watchdog, companion, and police work round out his many modern accomplishments.
Physical Characteristics
Height at Withers: female 17.5-19" (44.5-48 cm), male 18-19.5" (45.5-49.5 cm)
Weight: 33-40 lb (15-18 kg)
Coat: The coat is dense and hairs are wavy and soft in texture. It takes about 1 1/2 years for the adult coat to mature. Puppies are often black and during early maturity, very dark gray and brownish hair may intermingle in the coat until they are gradually replaced by the correct final hair color of blue (this correct color varies from light gray-blue to deep slate gray). Extremities may keep a darker color. Black adults are not accepted.
Longevity: 14+ years
Points of Conformation: This breed is characterized by a sturdy conformation with lots of muscle and bone, and small dark eyes somewhat deep set, triangular ears that are small with moderately thick leather and folded forward. The ear fold is above the topline of the skull. The skull is flat with a very minimal stop. The nose is black. The neck is moderately long and strong, not throaty. The topline is short and level, and there is a slight abdominal tuck. The tail is high set, and carried high. The thorax is deep and somewhat narrow, metatarsals and metacarpals are short and sturdy. Feet are compact, small, and with deep strong footpads with black toenails. Rear dewclaws disqualify. Gait is smooth, true, elastic and ground covering with good rear drive.
Recognized Behavior Issues and Traits
Reported breed attributes include: They are considered to be good guard dogs. Kerry Blues get along with children well and tolerate play. They commonly exhibit inter-male aggression. They require an early introduction to and supervision with cats or other small pets. They have a low barking tendency, are diggers, and need regular exercise and stimulating games. Intelligent, but easily bored, they have an independent streak and can be stubborn. They need close human contact, and do not do well as kenneled dogs. The Kerry Blue does not tolerate hot weather well.
Normal Physiologic Variations
No undercoat, a no-shedding dog, though care of the coat should be done regularly to keep it tidy. Considered a high grooming needs dog. Reportedly no doggy odor even when wet.
Drug Sensitivities
None reported
Inherited Diseases
Hip Dysplasia and Legg-Calve Perthes Disease: Polygenically inherited traits causing degenerative hip joint disease and arthritis. OFA reports 5.9% affected.
Elbow Dysplasia: Polygenically inherited trait causing elbow arthritis. OFA reports 5.0% affected.