Kerry Blue Terrier Puppies

Photo of Kerry Blue Terrier

An intelligent and loyal breed

The Kerry Blue Terrier is one of the largest breeds in the Terrier Group and is known for its unique blue coat. They are named for their home county in Ireland and were used as farm dogs. Their looks and intelligence have made them desirable show dogs and companion dogs alike.


Kerry Blue Terrier At a Glance

Photo of Kerry Blue Terrier Photo of Kerry Blue Terrier Photo of Kerry Blue Terrier Photo of Kerry Blue Terrier

Kerry Blue Terrier At a Glance

  • Size: 17"-20", 33-40 lbs.
  • Lifespan: 12-15 years
  • Energy Level: medium
  • Coat: Soft, dense, and wavy
  • Shedding: light
  • Hypoallergenic: Yes
  • Dog Group: Terrier
  • Common Nicknames: Irish Blue Terrier

Kerry Blue Terrier Breed Guide

Learn More About Kerry Blue Terriers

  • Temperament

    Kerry Blue Terriers are playful, loyal, and intelligent. They take well to training but should be trained with a light hand. If they feel they are being treated unjustly they have a tendency to get aggressive. They need an owner who established themselves as the pack leader and should be socialized with people and other animals as early as possible.

  • Health

    Kerries are a healthy breed, and responsible breeders will run hip and eye evaluations. The United States Kerry Blue Terrier Club is also a great resource for the latest in Kerry Blue health information.

  • Activity Level

    Kerry Blue Terriers have a medium energy level and should get 30-60 minutes of exercise daily. They tend to have an on-and-off switch and are just as happy romping around the yard as they are relaxing with their owners. They love going on hikes and runs with their owners.

  • Grooming

    They do not shed, but Kerry Blue Terriers require regular maintenance to keep their coat healthy. Their coat is constantly growing, and should bev clipped every 6 weeks to prevent matting and tangling. They should be bathed weekly, and the mustache around their mouth should be cleaned to remove food and debris. The hair inside their ears also needs to be groomed to prevent wax buildup and ear infections.

  • Shedding

    Kerry Blue Terriers shed very lightly and are considered to be a hypoallergenic breed. Because of their light shedding, this breed is a great fit for people with allergies.

  • Appearance

    Kerry Blue Terriers are medium-sized dogs but very muscular. Their dense, deep blue and grey coat is a show stopper and is often trimmed to perfect proportions giving them a unique look. The fur around their muzzle is often kept longer which gives them a distinguished look.

  • History

    The Kerry Blue Terrier was first bred in the 1700s, and is named after Kerry County in Ireland. They were bred to hunt small game, and were also used to herd sheep and cattle. They became recognized by the AKC in 1924, and are now known to be great companion dogs.