Kerry Blue Terrier

Originally known as the Irish Blue Terrier, this lively worker was developed by poachers and shepherds in the 1700's in the Kerry County of south-western Ireland. Contrary to popular belief, this is not a blue-coated strain of the Irish Red Terrier. The origins of the Kerry Blue are uncertain and there are many theories in existance, naming a variety of breeds as its ancestors, from the Irish Wolfhound, Bedlington Terrier, Bullterrier, Harlequin Terrier, Scottish Blue Paul, Spanish Water Dog, Poodle, Otterhound, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, Bearded Collie, Portuguese Water Spaniel and local and imported sheepdogs and hounds to the famous stories of the Russian Terrier from a shipwreck in the Tralee Bay. Whatever its true ancestry may be, the mighty Kerry Blue Terrier was a succesful working dog, used for hunting badgers, otters, rabbits and foxes, as well as for water retrieving duties. This hardy breed was also a valued vermin killer and occasional fighting dog, but Kerry Blue's most surprising achievement was its stellar performance as a herder and livestock guardian.

The breed Standard was written in 1922 by Mrs. Hewitt, a respected Kerry Blue breeder. International recognition was granted the same year, introducing this feisty breed to dog lovers worldwide. The rugged and resilient Kerry Blue Terrier is a versatile worker, making an excellent property watchdog and even a capable Police dog. This is a very intelligent and alert breed, loyal and loving of its master, a good choice for a family companion. Stubborn, but trainable, the Kerry Blue enjoys lots of excercise and an active lifestyle, although it can do well in urban environments. Even though it isn't nearly as aggressive as it was in the past, the Kerry Blue Terrier is still quite confrontational with other dogs, requiring early socialization and responsible handling.

Squarely built, muscular and agile, this powerful breed is a very fast runner and an impressive swimmer. The most famous distinctive feature of the Kerry Blue Terrier is its silky curly coat, soft to the touch and greyish-blue in colour.

The puppies are born black, but after approximately 9 months of age, their coat starts to appear reddish-brown in colour, before turning to the breed's trademark blue shades. The coat needs regular grooming, but most working Kerry Blue Terriers are left in their natural state. Average height is around 19 inches.