The Kerry Blue Terrier is the quintessential Irish working dog: versatile, spirited, and stunningly beautiful. Known as the “Irish Blue,” he is famous for his show-stopping coat, which ranges from a deep slate to a light silver blue. But he is not just a pretty face. Beneath that soft, wavy coat beats the heart of a tough, no-nonsense farm dog.

He is a dog of contradictions. He is gentle and goofy with his human family, yet he can be fierce with other dogs and predators. He is a serious worker who excels at herding sheep and hunting vermin, yet he is also a playful clown who will happily curl up on the sofa. He was bred to do it all: hunt, herd, guard, and keep the farmer company. Today, he is a loyal companion who demands to be an integral part of the family.

History and Origin: The Mystery of the Blue Dog

The Kerry Blue originated in the rugged mountains of County Kerry, Ireland. His exact origins are a mystery wrapped in legend.

• The Shipwreck Legend: One popular story claims that a blue dog swam ashore from a shipwreck (perhaps from the Spanish Armada) in Tralee Bay and mated with local Wheaten Terriers, producing the Kerry Blue.
• The Poacher’s Dog: Another theory suggests that Irish peasants, who were forbidden by the nobility to own large Irish Wolfhounds, bred a smaller “poacher’s dog” to hunt silently and provide meat for the table.
• The Patriot’s Dog: Whatever his origin, the Kerry Blue became a symbol of Irish nationalism. Michael Collins, the famous Irish revolutionary leader, owned a Kerry Blue named “Convict 224.” Collins was so fond of the breed that he tried to have the Kerry Blue declared the National Dog of Ireland.

Physical Characteristics: A Blue Masterpiece

The Kerry Blue is a medium-sized, upstanding terrier. He looks muscular, balanced, and ready for action.

• Height: Males 18–19.5 inches (46-50 cm); Females 17.5–19 inches (44-48 cm).
• Weight: Males 33–40 pounds (15-18 kg); Females slightly less.

The Famous Coat

The breed’s crowning glory is his coat.

• Texture: Soft, dense, and wavy. It feels like silk or human hair, not like the wire hair of most terriers. It has no undercoat and does not shed, making the Kerry Blue an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.
• The Color Change: Kerry Blue puppies are born black. They must go through a “clearing” process where the black fades to blue. This process can take up to 18 months. The final color can be any shade of blue-gray, from deep slate to light silver.
• The Beard: A profuse beard and “fall” (hair over the eyes) give him a keen, typically terrier expression.

Temperament and Personality

The Kerry Blue is a dog with a huge personality. He is not a dog for the faint of heart.

The People Dog

He loves people. He is famously affectionate and will often “talk” to his owners with a range of grumbles, murmurs, and woo-woos. He is excellent with children and has a distinct sense of humor. He wants to be with you, doing whatever you are doing.

The Scrappy Terrier

He was bred to fight badgers and otters. Consequently, he has a high prey drive and can be dog-aggressive, especially with other males.

• Other Pets: He may view cats and small animals as prey.
• Other Dogs: He does not start fights, but he will finish them. Early and continuous socialization with other dogs is non-negotiable.

The Intelligent Worker

He is incredibly smart but gets bored easily. He needs a job. He excels in obedience, agility, herding, and even dock diving. A bored Kerry Blue is a destructive Kerry Blue.

Training and Exercise Needs

Exercise: High Energy

The Kerry Blue is an active, athletic dog.

• Daily Needs: A long walk, a jog, or a vigorous game of fetch are required daily. He has stamina and loves to run.
• Mental Stimulation: He needs to use his brain. Puzzle toys, trick training, and nose work are great ways to tire him out.

Training: The Firm Leader

He is smart but stubborn. He will test you.

• Variety: Do not bore him with repetition. If you ask him to sit ten times, the tenth time he will look at you and walk away. Keep training sessions short, varied, and fun.
• Firmness: He needs a confident leader who sets clear boundaries. If you give him an inch, he will take a mile.

Health and Lifespan

Kerry Blues are generally a healthy and long-lived breed, often reaching 12 to 15 years.

• PNA (Progressive Neuronal Abiotrophy): A rare, genetic neurological condition (formerly called Cerebellar Abiotrophy). Responsible breeders test for this.
• Skin Issues: The breed can be prone to cysts (epidermal inclusion cysts) or lumps.
• Eye Issues: Entropion (inward-rolling eyelids) and cataracts.
• Hip Dysplasia: Can occur, though less common than in larger breeds.

Grooming and Care

High Maintenance Coat

The Kerry Blue’s non-shedding coat is a blessing for your furniture but a commitment for your schedule.

• Brushing: He must be brushed thoroughly at least twice a week to prevent mats. The soft hair mats easily.
• Clipping: He must be clipped (scissored) every 6-8 weeks to maintain the breed’s distinctive outline. This is an art form. You will need to find a professional groomer who knows how to groom a Kerry Blue, or learn to do it yourself (which many owners do).
• Face Cleaning: The beard acts as a sponge for food and water. It needs to be wiped daily to prevent smells and staining.

Is a Kerry Blue Terrier Right for You?

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a magical companion for the right person.

Yes, if:

• You want a non-shedding, hypoallergenic dog.
• You want a medium-sized dog with a big presence. He is a “big dog in a medium package.”
• You are an experienced dog owner. You understand terrier temperament.
• You are active. You want a hiking or running partner.

No, if:

• You want a “wash and wear” dog. The grooming is significant.
• You have other male dogs. It can be a recipe for conflict.
• You have small pets (cats, hamsters). His prey drive is high.
• You want a dog that loves every stranger instantly. He is loyal to his people.

If you can handle the grooming and the terrier spirit, the Kerry Blue will reward you with a loyalty that is as deep as the Irish Sea. He is a stunning, intelligent, and fiercely loving friend who will make sure your life is never boring.