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Kerry Blue Terrier

Kerry Blue Terrier is a medium terrier breed from Ireland also known as Irish Blue Terrier.

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Kerry Blue Terrier

Breed overview

Kerry Blue Terrier is a medium terrier breed from Ireland also known as Irish Blue Terrier.

Originating in County Kerry, Ireland, in the 1700s as an all-purpose farm terrier (hunting vermin, herding livestock, guarding property). The breed's distinctive soft, wavy coat is born black and fades to a blue-gray by about 2 years old.

People looking into Kerry Blue Terrier usually prepare for High exercise needs, High grooming needs, 33–40 lbs • 17–19 in.

Irish Blue Terrier

History and origin

Kerry Blue Terrier is tied to originating from Ireland, specifically Kerry Mountains, with sources often placing its development around 1700 CE.

Kerry Blue Terrier is described here as placed in the terrier group and marked as an established breed.

Originating in County Kerry, Ireland, in the 1700s as an all-purpose farm terrier (hunting vermin, herding livestock, guarding property). The breed's distinctive soft, wavy coat is born black and fades to a blue-gray by about 2 years old.

Browse dog breeds from Ireland Browse more terrier breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
terrier
Size
Medium
Origin country
Ireland
Region
Kerry Mountains
Origin year
1700 CE
Weight
33–40 lbs
Height
17–19 in
Lifespan
12–15 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
4 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
1 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
High exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 4/5

Coat and classification

Kerry Blue Terrier is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

SoftDenseWavy

Kerry Blue Terrier is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Distinctive blue-gray wavy coat (born black)
  • Bearded muzzle
  • Strong, well-proportioned body
  • V-shaped ears

What this breed is known for

  • Originating in County Kerry, Ireland, in the 1700s as an all-purpose farm terrier (hunting vermin, herding livestock, guarding property). The breed's distinctive soft, wavy coat is born black and fades to a blue-gray by about 2 years old.
  • Kerry Blues are medium-sized, with a well-muscled body and a dense, non-shedding coat that requires regular grooming. Traditionally their coat is trimmed in a specific terrier style with a beard and fall over the eyes.
  • They are spirited, smart, and sometimes strong-willed. Like many terriers, Kerry Blues can be dog-aggressive if not socialized, but they are very devoted to their human families.

Health and care notes

Kerry Blue Terrier is noted here for High exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Eye Conditions
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Cerebellar Abiotrophy

Coat details: Soft, Dense, Wavy

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Kerry Blue Terrier come from?

Kerry Blue Terrier is closely associated with Ireland, especially Kerry Mountains in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Kerry Blue Terrier get?

Typical size details for Kerry Blue Terrier on this page are 33–40 lbs, 17–19 in, 12–15 years.

What is the Kerry Blue Terrier known for?

Originating in County Kerry, Ireland, in the 1700s as an all-purpose farm terrier (hunting vermin, herding livestock, guarding property). The breed's distinctive soft, wavy coat is born black and fades to a blue-gray by about 2 years old.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Kerry Blue Terrier reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.