Kerry Blue Terrier
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Connect with certified breeders who have Kerry Blue Terrier puppies available.
Find Kerry Blue Terrier BreedersGet to Know Kerry Blue Terriers
- Unique Blue Coat: The Kerry Blue Terrier’s signature blue-gray coat develops gradually; puppies are born black and transition to their blue color over several months. This coat is soft, wavy, and hypoallergenic, making it ideal for families with mild allergies.
- Versatile Working Dog: Originally bred in Ireland for farm work, Kerry Blues were used to hunt vermin, herd cattle, and guard property. Their versatility made them indispensable on rural farms for centuries.
- Highly Intelligent & Resourceful: Kerry Blues are problem solvers who enjoy mental challenges. They excel in dog sports like obedience, agility, and tracking because of their sharp instincts and determination.
- A Terrier with Style: The breed has a distinctive, elegant appearance with a long head, strong jaw, and flowing coat. Its striking look has made it a favorite in dog shows since the early 20th century.
- Energetic & Tenacious: Despite their medium size, Kerry Blues have the heart and stamina of a much larger working dog. They are persistent and fearless, traits that made them excellent ratters and protectors.
Breed History
The Kerry Blue Terrier originated in County Kerry, Ireland, in the 19th century, though its ancestry may trace back further through native Irish terriers. Bred as an all-purpose farm dog, it hunted vermin, guarded livestock, and served as a loyal companion. Its development emphasized intelligence, agility, and a non-shedding, hypoallergenic coat suited to Ireland’s harsh weather. By the early 20th century, the breed gained recognition in dog shows, and today it remains a striking, energetic, and versatile companion prized both as a family pet and working dog.
Personality and Behaviour
- Alert & Watchful: Kerry Blues make excellent watchdogs due to their attentiveness and quick reactions, often alerting families to unusual activity without excessive barking.
- Playful & Social: They enjoy interactive play, love family activities, and generally get along with children and other pets if socialized early.
- Independent & Tenacious: While affectionate, they can be stubborn and resourceful. Consistent, patient training is essential to channel their energy productively.
Care
- Exercise: Daily walks, play, and mental stimulation are essential to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
- Training: Early socialization and positive reinforcement help manage their independent streak and intelligent problem-solving tendencies.
- Grooming: Regular brushing (3–4 times per week) and professional trimming maintain coat texture, prevent matting, and keep the dog comfortable.
Kerry Blue Terrier Summary
Weight
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Temperament
GroomingWhat to ask your breeder?
Here's a short summary of what you should be asking your breeder:
Kerry Blue Terrier Health Testing
| Screening | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Hip Dysplasia | One of the following: OFA Radiographic Hip Evaluation PennHIP Evaluation. Results registered with OFA. |
| ACVO Eye Exam | ACVO Eye Examination. Results registered with OFA. |
| von Willebrand's Disease | (Optional) DNA-based vWD test from an approved lab; results registered with the OFA |
| Factor XI Deficiency | (Optional) DNA-based Factor XI test from an approved lab; results registered with OFA. First Generation Offspring of tested dogs eligible for Clear By Parentage |
| Degenerative Myelopathy | (Optional) DNA-based DM test from an approved laboratory; results registered with OFA. First Generation Offspring of tested dogs eligible for Clear By Parentage |
How Much Does It Cost to Own a Kerry Blue Terrier Per Year?
Determining the cost of owning a Kerry Blue Terrier is essential for responsible dog ownership. Use our calculator to estimate expenses, including food, grooming, veterinary care, and more.
The Ultimate Dog Cost Calculator
Calculate NowFrequently Asked Questions About Kerry Blue Terrier
When you talk to a breeder, you're not just asking “do you have available Kerry Blue Terrier puppies?” You're looking for a match in the process of rehoming a dog. As a prospective dog owner, you are assessing how predictable the dog's health, temperament, and long-term welfare will be and whether the breeder's practices reduce avoidable risk.
You should engage in a conversation about the following topics:
- Which health tests and genetic screening do you do specifically for Kerry Blue Terrier, and can I see the results?
- What do you do if a puppy develops a serious genetic condition? What contract, policies and support do you offer as a breeder?
- How are puppies raised from birth to 8+ weeks? Ask about socialization, philosophies on early neurological development, handling, and exposure.
The real cost of a dog isn't just the puppy price. After year one, the cost of a dog includes the predictable annual costs + the unpredictable “risk costs.” Your goal is to make the cost legible before you commit, as one of the top causes of surrendering a dog is not being able to afford the dog in later years.
To help you assess these costs, Paction has created the Ultimate Cost Calculator. You can also read an article written by a Paction breeder on why a prospective dog owner should focus on the ongoing costs of dog ownership and not “how much” the puppy costs.
Every dog breed has certain health issues that tend to occur more often, but what matters most is how predictable and preventable those risks are. For many breeds, common concerns include inherited conditions (such as orthopedic, eye, or cardiac issues) as well as lifestyle-related challenges like weight management, dental health, skin or ear problems, and anxiety.
Responsible breeders help reduce inherited risk through appropriate health testing, careful selection of breeding pairs, and transparency about family history. To understand more about responsible breeding programs that prioritize health and genetic screening of breeding pairs, check out Making Science Simple: Canine Genetics for Puppy Shoppers.
As an owner, you play an equally important role. Consistent preventive veterinary care, proper exercise and enrichment, healthy nutrition, and early screening can significantly improve long-term health outcomes.
Whether a Kerry Blue Terrier is right for you depends less on the breed itself and more on how well its typical energy level, temperament, and care needs align with your daily life. Important factors include your schedule and activity level, living environment, household dynamics (such as children, other pets, or allergies), and tolerance for noise or independence. Long-term fit also comes down to maintenance like grooming, training needs, and how often you travel or rely on outside dog care.
Use Paction's Dog Breed Matchmaker and Pup Time Estimator to find out more about what dog is right for you.
