The Kerry Blue Terrier hails from Ireland.
Native to the hills of County Kerry, he is a jack
of all canine trades and a master at most. Being
of medium size and sporting a soft blue wavy
coat, his dashing appearance draws many
inquiring minds. Once known as the Irish Blue,
the breed was developed in the early 19th
century. Its versatility and endearing charm have
made him one of the most treasured canine
companions , even though he has failed to reign
in the popularity contest.
Native to the hills of County Kerry, he is a jack
of all canine trades and a master at most. Being
of medium size and sporting a soft blue wavy
coat, his dashing appearance draws many
inquiring minds. Once known as the Irish Blue,
the breed was developed in the early 19th
century. Its versatility and endearing charm have
made him one of the most treasured canine
companions , even though he has failed to reign
in the popularity contest.
The history of the Kerry Blue Terrier is somewhat of a controversial subject. Many believe that
Ireland's Blue & Tan Terriers were crossed with the Bedlington Terrier, Bull Terrier and Irish
Wolfhound in earlier days to create the breed. There is also speculation that dogs of Spain, as
well as, the Old English Sheepdog have played a part in the Kerry Blue's development.
However diverse and mysterious his background may be, it has certainly contributed in making the
Kerry Blue Terrier one of the most unique canines in the dog world today.
Kerries were highly regarded for their utilitarian virtues. They were used on the farms in Ireland to
herd cattle and sheep, kill vermin, guard the home and family and take down the occasional badger
or otter if need be. They were also used successfully in England for police work. Todays
Kerries are a fierce contender in the world of competitive dog sports and are quickly making a name
for themselves by earning titles in the agility and obedience rings, as well as, herding and earth dog
trials. You will even see Kerries who serve in our community as canine good citizens, therapy dogs
and as members of search & rescue units.
When Kerries entered the show scene they were basically shown untrimmed or "in the rough."
Today that lovely blue coat they are renowned for is impeccably coiffed by exhibitors into one of
the most stylish canines in the show ring. Though their owners may lavish a considerable amount
of time and money to obtain this look, it does pay off as the Kerry's eye-catching appearance and
extraordinary presence make him a true showman both in and out of the conformation ring.
The Kerry Blue is extremely devoted to its human family. They have a considerable amount of
tenacity and gameness so caution should be taken when cohabiting with the family cat and other
pets. Because of their willful nature training is essential in establishing who is truly the master of the
house otherwise the Kerry's dominant tendencies will surely over rule. As with all dogs in general
supervision is a must when small children are involved for the Kerry can be somewhat of a clown and
may become a bit rambunctious. The Kerry's soft, oderless coat does minimal shedding and makes
them a boon for the fussy housewife and is what some consider to be a hypo-allergenic breed.
However, care should be taken if you or a family member suffer from allergies as there are no
guarantees that this breed will not cause an allergic reaction.
The Kerry Blue Terrier is not a dog for everyone but for those who care to invest their time and
money into the to proper care and training of this breed will be vastly rewarded with an abundance
of unconditional love, superior intelligence and devotion this amazing canine has to offer. As a
devoted fancier of the breed I can truly say that once you own a Kerry Blue Terrier and receive a
dose of their Irish charm, you just can't imagine yourself with any other breed!
Ireland's Blue & Tan Terriers were crossed with the Bedlington Terrier, Bull Terrier and Irish
Wolfhound in earlier days to create the breed. There is also speculation that dogs of Spain, as
well as, the Old English Sheepdog have played a part in the Kerry Blue's development.
However diverse and mysterious his background may be, it has certainly contributed in making the
Kerry Blue Terrier one of the most unique canines in the dog world today.
Kerries were highly regarded for their utilitarian virtues. They were used on the farms in Ireland to
herd cattle and sheep, kill vermin, guard the home and family and take down the occasional badger
or otter if need be. They were also used successfully in England for police work. Todays
Kerries are a fierce contender in the world of competitive dog sports and are quickly making a name
for themselves by earning titles in the agility and obedience rings, as well as, herding and earth dog
trials. You will even see Kerries who serve in our community as canine good citizens, therapy dogs
and as members of search & rescue units.
When Kerries entered the show scene they were basically shown untrimmed or "in the rough."
Today that lovely blue coat they are renowned for is impeccably coiffed by exhibitors into one of
the most stylish canines in the show ring. Though their owners may lavish a considerable amount
of time and money to obtain this look, it does pay off as the Kerry's eye-catching appearance and
extraordinary presence make him a true showman both in and out of the conformation ring.
The Kerry Blue is extremely devoted to its human family. They have a considerable amount of
tenacity and gameness so caution should be taken when cohabiting with the family cat and other
pets. Because of their willful nature training is essential in establishing who is truly the master of the
house otherwise the Kerry's dominant tendencies will surely over rule. As with all dogs in general
supervision is a must when small children are involved for the Kerry can be somewhat of a clown and
may become a bit rambunctious. The Kerry's soft, oderless coat does minimal shedding and makes
them a boon for the fussy housewife and is what some consider to be a hypo-allergenic breed.
However, care should be taken if you or a family member suffer from allergies as there are no
guarantees that this breed will not cause an allergic reaction.
The Kerry Blue Terrier is not a dog for everyone but for those who care to invest their time and
money into the to proper care and training of this breed will be vastly rewarded with an abundance
of unconditional love, superior intelligence and devotion this amazing canine has to offer. As a
devoted fancier of the breed I can truly say that once you own a Kerry Blue Terrier and receive a
dose of their Irish charm, you just can't imagine yourself with any other breed!
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