The Kerry Blue Terrier is a dog that wants to be a part of every aspect of his owner's life.  These dogs are not for a human whose life style is that of a couch potato.  The Kerry Blue Terrier is an all around, vibrant, active dog.  They can be found as a companion dog, a guard dog, a very good hunting dog (they have been used for badger, rabbits, fox and birds), a retriever that works well in the water, a vermin eliminator, and they have been used to herd sheep, cattle, and horses. For those who would enjoy hunting with the Kerry, they need to know that this breed hunts and retrieves silently. Kerries are intelligent, fiercely loyal, feisty, and intense about everything that they are involved in.
     A new comer to Kerries should be aware that this breed is very energetic, possess a mischievous streak, are quite territorial and therefore are capable of intense aggression toward other dogs, and have a labor intensive coat.  If you do not enjoy brushing and combing your dog, do not even consider this breed to own.  They should be brushed at least every other day, and a good brushing and combing right down to the skin at least once per week,  and a monthly bath is necessary.  Their coat is soft, wavy and silky.  There is no undercoat. Their eyes need to be checked daily to make sure that there is no debris or hair irritating the eye.
     Another important aspect for new comers to this breed is that by nature, Kerries consider cats, pet mice, hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, and birds as vermin that need to be destroyed.  As with any general rule, there are exceptions, but unless the Kerrie is raised with these other animals and trained not to harm them do not expect long life for the vermin.
     Some adjectives that have been used to describe the Kerry Blue Terrier are: strong willed, individualist, active, enthusiastic, rollicking, and rambunctious. This breed has competed successfully in herding trials, hunting trials, agility, obedience, and in conformation. The Kerries are a healthy and long lived breed, the average life span being 12 to 15 years.
      The male Kerry Blue Terrier measure to the withers on average is 18 to 19-1/2 inches.  The female is slightly smaller measuring on average 17-1/2 to 19 inches to the withers.  The weight ranges between 33 and 40 pounds.
 
 
 

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