History

Kerry Blue Terriers were developed in the 1700's by Irish shepherds. Their name comes from the county of Kerry in south-western Ireland. Crossed between the Irish Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier, they were originally used as a companion, farm dog, guard dog and hunting dog. Known to dispatch rats and other barnyard vermin they were also a good retriever fetching prey from the water. Joining the show world at Westminster Kennel Club in 1922, they were official recognized by the AKC in 1924.

Characteristics

Their heads are long and well-balanced with a slight stop and flat over the forehead. Their eyes should be small to medium and as dark as possible. The ears again should be small to medium and v-shaped . The gums and roof of the mouth should be dark with a perfect scissor bite. The neck should be strong and reachy running into a sloping shoulder. The front legs should be straight and powerful and the hindquarters large and well-developed with hocks that are close to the ground. The body should be short-coupled with a level topline and deep chest and well sprung ribs. The feet should be round and small and the tail, customarily docked, should be set on high and carried erect.

Temperament

This is a lively, self-confident breed that bonds very closely with the handler and his family. They adore children and will adapt to other household pets if introduced at a young age. They can be a bit strong-willed and stubborn. In typical terrier style, they will stand their ground when confronted and can be aggressive with other dogs.

Care and Exercise

Kerry Blue Terriers need regular brushing or combing with a steel comb or a slicker brush. Bathe monthly. If shown they need regular clipping and trimming with scissors and trimmer. Kerry Blue Terriers do not shed nor do they have a body odor. Check ears, eyes, teeth and nails frequently. Daily exercise is essential which should consist of long walks on a leash and or games off-leash.

Grooming

This breed is ideal for those with an aversion to dog hair, as the coat does not shed. They can be bathed regularly using mild shampoo, and the coat needs to be brushed through to prevent it from knotting up.They need to be clippered and scissored every two or three months (unlike most terrier coats that are ‘stripped’). Excess hair should be removed regularly from the ear passages. The hair between the pads of the feet should also be trimmed regularly.