Kerry Blue Terrier
Terrier Group
Height at Shoulders
17-19 in
Weight
30-40 lbs
Life Expectancy
12-15 yrs
History
The Kerry Blue Terrier was first seen in the Kerry Mountains of Ireland. There is a story that tells of a blue terrier that swam ashore from a shipwreck. The dog was so beautiful that it was mated to every females Wheaten Terrier in Kerry, producing the Kerry Blue Terrier. While the legitimacy of this story is unknown, it is known that they were hardworking, all-purpose farm dogs. The Kerry Blue Terrier also became the mascot for patriots in the fight for Irish independence.
Breed Characteristics
While not all Kerry Blue Terriers share the exact same personality and temperament, there are certain generalizations that can be made about the breed. In addition to genetics, a dog’s environment, training, socialization, and many other factors all contribute to their personality and behavior.
Intelligence
Affection Towards Family
Friendliness Towards Strangers
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
Exercise Needs
★★★★☆
★★★★☆
★★★☆☆
★★☆☆☆
★★★★☆
Energy Level
Sensitivity
Noise Level
Prey Drive
Shedding
★★★★☆
★★★☆☆
★★★★☆
★★★☆☆
★☆☆☆☆
Intelligence
★★★★☆
Affection Towards Family
★★★★☆
Friendliness Towards Strangers
★★★☆☆
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
★★☆☆☆
Exercise Needs
★★★★☆
Energy Level
★★★★☆
Sensitivity
★★★☆☆
Noise Level
★★★★☆
Prey Drive
★★★☆☆
Shedding
★☆☆☆☆
Common Traits
Loyal, affectionate, and love spending time with their family
Very alert and make great watchdogs
Tend to be uneasy around other dogs
Many owners say this breed has a great sense of humor
Like a typical terrier, they love to dig, chase animals, chew, and bark
Strong-willed and might try to assume the alpha role in the house if not taught otherwise
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