The Kerry Blue Terrier is a breed that is devoted and highly intelligent. This breed's non-shedding coat makes him an ideal pet for those with allergies.

Physical Characteristics

• Most distinguishing characteristic is the coat - soft, dense and wavy fur
• Muscular, medium size
• Long legs
• Sturdy head with abundant whiskers, beard and eyebrows
• Muzzle and skull are equal in length
• V-shaped ears
• Height: 17.5-19.5 inches
• Weight: 30-40 pounds
• Average lifespan: 12-15 years

Temperament

• Energetic, playful, loving, alert, rambunctious, faithful, willful
• Interaction with people: Good companion dog
• Interaction with animals: Good with other pets if socialized early
• Training: Needs firm obedience training and early socialization. Excellent memory with a gift for leaning tricks and sports
• Protection: Good watchdog; very protective

At Home

• OK for apartments
• Needs small fenced yard
• Needs daily walks or runs
• An active and intelligent breed that likes to have a job

Grooming

• Nonshedder; hypoallergenic
• Hair needs to be pulled from the ear canal to prevent infection
• Coat needs to be trimmed every four weeks
• Needs to be trimmed every four weeks
• Needs weekly brushing and bathing

Brief History

• Originated in the 1700s in County Kerry, a southwestern county of the Republic of Ireland
• Historically used as a small game hunter, herder, retriever, farm dog and watchdog
• Breed arrived in U.S. in late 1800s

Fido's Facts

• Official symbol of the Kerry Country
• Born black and change color at least once as they grow; generally reach and maintain solid gray at 18 months