Kerry Blue Terrier

Can be somewhat dog aggressive, but should be socialized around others at puppyhood to avoid any future concerns. The Kerry Blue Terrier is an intelligent breed that loves a playful activity will surely make training a breeze. This dog is fairly independent however and should always be given a range of activity.

Like the other Irish Terrier breeds it is assumed that the Kerry Blue has been in the country for centuries, but, once again, because of its humble origins as a rat catcher and all-round farm dog, there are few, if any references to the breed before the 20th century. The first probable literary references to the Kerry Blue dates from 1847 the author describes a bluish slate coloured dog, marked with darker blotches and patches, and often with the tan about the legs and muzzle. This blackish-blue Irish terrier was supposed to be prevalent in Kerry but it has been developed in other counties as well. The blue didn?t make its first appearance on the show benches until 1913, and the Dublin Blue Terrier Club was formed in 1920. The Kerry Blue became quickly so popular as a sort of mascot for Irish patriots that there were actually four clubs promoting its interests for a short time, and between 1922 and 1924 these clubs sponsored no fewer than six shows and six field trials. By 1928 this impressive balanced terrier with its beautiful soft blue coat became popular worldwide and its reputation as an excellent working and companion dog agreed with the breed assessment as « well nigh perfect ».

The Kerry blue needs a good amount of exercise, but her needs can be met with either a long walk on leash, a vigorous play session or a chance to explore off leash in a safe area. Her coat needs combing about twice a week, plus scissoring and coat shaping every month.

Long walks are enjoyed by this high energy breed, however since this breed has a long coat, proper water should always be available. The Kerry Blue Terrier can thrive with a small amount of exercise, or one long walk per week, however he does enjoy walks with his companion.

Exercise, fenced yard, leash, firm training, grooming and socialization.

Requiring grooming every six weeks, the Kerry Blue Terrier requires a lot of coat maintenance. Ear hair plucking is required as this breed is prone to ear infections and dirty ears. A very light shedder, this breed should be brushed and combed every week to keep coat silky, tangle free, and presentable. Bathing every week is required for this dog or their beard will become very dirty.

This dog must be trained by a person with experience, confident and firm. The dog must be taught who is the master, because it is quite wilful. The training must be consistent, varied, strong, and done with surenty and experience. It shouldn't be tolerated when it attacks other dogs, although this is an innate sense. It enjoys the exercises that require it physical and mental, the monotonous ones will make it to react negative. It loves agility exercises, flyball.

The fur of this dog is casual combed. It doesn't moult. Once or twice a year the fur must be trimmed.

The distinctive blue coat is not only beautiful, but practical as well. It does not shed and is odorless, even when wet. Pet dogs need a weekly brushing plus professional trimming about five times per year. Pet Kerries can be trimmed in a Poodle puppy cli