The Kerry Blue Terrier is a small but mighty breed, and their short hair is just one of the many characteristics that make them stand out. Their coat is a single layer of short, dense hair that requires minimal grooming.
One of the benefits of their short hair is that it sheds very little, making them a great choice for people with allergies or who prefer less dog hair in their lives. This also means they don't need to be brushed often, which is a win for busy owners.
Kerry Blue Terriers are a relatively small breed, weighing between 33-40 pounds, but they have a big personality. Their short hair also helps to accentuate their athletic build and agile physique.
Their short hair also helps to keep them cool in warm weather, making them a great choice for people who live in hot climates.
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Breed Origin
The Kerry Blue Terrier breed originated in the County Kerry in Ireland in the 1700s. This is where their journey as a working dog began.
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Kerry Blue Terriers were bred as early as the 1820s, specifically to hunt vermin and other small game. They also showed a natural talent for herding sheep and cattle.
Their impressive performance in dog shows earned them the National Dog of Ireland title, which they still hold today. This title is a testament to their popularity and excellence in the canine world.
The Kerry Blue Terrier was recognized by the AKC in 1924, marking a significant milestone in their journey to becoming a recognized breed.
Temperament & Intelligence
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a creative and resourceful dog that needs early socialization and training to foster their brave and assertive nature. This will make a world of difference in having a mannerly dog.
They can be headstrong and march to the beat of their own drum, taking control and doing as they please if left unchecked. Early training is highly recommended.
Their intelligence and adaptability make them capable of learning a variety of concepts and commands. This dominant personality can make it more challenging to coexist with them.
Seeking a professional trainer's help can be very helpful, especially for novice owners, due to the Kerry Blue Terrier's tendency to be more dominant.
Health and Conditions
As a Kerry Blue Terrier owner, you want to ensure your furry friend stays healthy and happy. This breed is generally pretty healthy, but like all breeds, it's not immune to certain health issues.
Cysts, warts, and skin tumors can affect your Kerry Blue Terrier, so keep an eye out for any unusual growths or lumps on their skin.
Follicular hyperkeratosis is another condition to be aware of, which can cause thickening of the skin and lead to skin irritation.
Here are some health conditions to watch out for in your Kerry Blue Terrier:
- Cysts
- Warts
- Skin tumors
- Follicular hyperkeratosis
Kerry Terrier Facts
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a medium-sized dog with a unique coat.
They are known for their intelligence, cunning, and friendly personalities.
These traits make them loyal and protective of their families, but they can be wary of other dogs.
To keep them happy and healthy, they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
This means they make excellent companions for active families who can provide the physical and mental activity they require.
Due to their strong protective instinct, they can be aggressive to unknown people or animals, so socialization from an early age is crucial.
The Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a member of the Terrier group, which is one of the oldest and most recognizable breeds.
Their small size, typically weighing between 33 and 40 pounds, makes them a great companion for many families.
Their short, dense coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Their short hair is one of the key characteristics that sets them apart from other breeds.
Their friendly, outgoing personalities make them a popular choice for many dog owners.
Their intelligence and trainability make them a great breed for first-time dog owners.
Their high energy levels require regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
Hygiene
Maintaining good hygiene is crucial for your Kerry Blue Terrier's overall health and well-being. It's essential to keep their ears clean to prevent irritation or infections.
Regular teeth brushing is a must to reduce the chances of tartar build-up, which can cause pain or bad breath. This simple habit can make a big difference in your pet's comfort and happiness.
Don't forget to pay special attention to your Kerry's nose and paw pads, and moisturize them regularly to prevent skin cracking and wounds. This is especially important in colder or dryer environments.
Here are some key areas to focus on:
- Ears
- Teeth
- Nose
- Paw pads
Protect any dry areas with Artero Dfender, especially in colder or dryer environments, to prevent skin issues.
Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a medium-sized dog with a unique coat.
They are known for their intelligence and friendly personalities, which make them excellent companions for active families.
Their active nature requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
They can be weary of other dogs, so socialisation from an early age is crucial to avoid any behavioural issues.
Due to their strong protective instinct, they can be aggressive to an unknown person or animal.
It's essential to socialise them well to prevent any unwanted aggression.
Sources
- How to Groom a Kerry Blue Terrier - Pet Business (petbusiness.com)
- Kerry Blue Terrier (shutterstock.com)
- A post shared by Luke_kerryblue 🐾 (@lukethekerryblue) (instagram.com)
- American Kennel Club (akc.org)
- Kerry Blue Terrier dog care, brushing, bathing and haircutting (artero.com)
- Grooming the Kerry Blue Terrier (showsightmagazine.com)
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