The Kerry Blue Terrier is one of those breeds that inspires fierce loyalty in its owners and bewildered fascination in everyone else. Born jet black and slowly turning a striking shade of blue-grey over their first two years, they look like no other dog in the terrier group. Add a flowing beard, a muscular build, and the swagger of a dog that genuinely believes it could take on a badger — because it was bred to — and you’ve got the Kerry Blue.
In Ireland, they call it the Irish Blue Terrier, and the breed narrowly missed becoming Ireland’s national dog. Michael Collins, the Irish revolutionary leader, campaigned for the honour, and his own Kerry Blue named Convict 224 was famous across the country. The bid failed, but the breed’s place in Irish culture was cemented forever.
In Australia, the Kerry Blue Terrier is rare but has a fiercely devoted community of breeders who have been refining their lines for decades. This is not a dog for the casual owner. It’s a dog for someone who wants a partnership — a smart, athletic, opinionated companion that will make you laugh, test your patience, and guard your family with everything it has.
What You’ll Learn
- Breed traits & temperament
- Health concerns to know
- True cost in Australia
- Training & exercise needs
- Is this breed right for you?
Kerry Blue Terrier at a Glance
| Trait | Detail |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Terrier (ANKC Group 2) |
| Origin | County Kerry, Ireland (first documented 1847) |
| Also Known As | Irish Blue Terrier, An Brocaire Gorm |
| Size (Male) | 46–48 cm / 15–18 kg |
| Size (Female) | 44–46 cm / 13–16 kg |
| Coat | Soft, dense, wavy — non-shedding. Born black, turns blue with maturity. |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Temperament | Spirited, loyal, intelligent, strong-willed, feisty |
| Shedding | None — hypoallergenic (coat grows continuously) |
| Exercise Needs | High — 60+ minutes daily |
| Barking Tendency | Moderate — alert barker, not excessive |
| Good With Kids | Yes — devoted and playful when raised together |
| Good With Other Dogs | Challenging — dog-aggressive tendencies are common |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes — non-shedding, low dander |
| ANKC Registered | Yes — Terrier Group |
History & Origins
The Kerry Blue Terrier takes its name from County Kerry in the mountainous southwest of Ireland, where the breed was first documented in 1847 as a blue-grey terrier with darker patches around the legs and muzzle. But the breed’s working history stretches back much further than that. For centuries, Irish peasant farmers needed a tough, versatile dog that could herd cattle and sheep, hunt vermin, guard the homestead, and retrieve game from water — sometimes all in the same day. The Kerry Blue was that dog.
There’s a famous Irish story about the Kerry Blue’s origin. Farmers in the Ring of Kerry bred their dogs in both light and dark coats as a cunning disguise during poaching expeditions. On moonlit nights, they’d run the lighter-coloured dogs to chase hare, and on dark nights they’d switch to the darker ones. Whether the tale is entirely true or embellished with a touch of the blarney, it captures the breed’s resourceful spirit perfectly.
The breed rose to wider prominence in the early 20th century during Ireland’s struggle for independence. Michael Collins, the revolutionary leader, owned a Kerry Blue named Convict 224 and proposed making the breed Ireland’s national dog. The motion was debated in the Dáil but ultimately failed to pass — reportedly because delegates couldn’t agree on which native Irish breed deserved the title.
By 1922, the Kerry Blue Terrier Club of Ireland was formed, and the breed quickly spread to Britain, America, and eventually Australia. In Ireland, dogs entered in shows had to pass a “gameness” test before competing — including catching rabbits and confronting a badger in its sett. Those tests are long gone, but they explain why the breed retains such a bold, confrontational temperament to this day.
The Kerry Blue won Best in Show at Crufts in 2000, a high point for the breed’s profile. Despite that win, it remains an uncommon breed globally and is classified as a vulnerable native breed by the UK Kennel Club, with fewer than 300 new registrations per year in Britain. In Australia, the breed is similarly rare but supported by dedicated ANKC-registered breeders across Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania.
Temperament & Personality
If you’ve owned a terrier before, you’ll recognise the Kerry Blue’s personality immediately — then you’ll notice it’s been turned up to eleven. This is a dog with immense courage, fierce loyalty, and a stubborn streak wide enough to drive a truck through. Kerry Blue Terrier owners often joke that you don’t own a Kerry — a Kerry owns you.
With their family, Kerries are deeply affectionate. They bond closely with their people, are playful and energetic with children, and have a genuine sense of humour. Multiple Australian breeders describe the breed’s personality as having a “touch of the blarney” — they’ll clown around, invent their own games, and then look at you with an expression that suggests the whole thing was your idea.
Here’s the part nobody should skip. Kerry Blue Terriers have a well-documented tendency toward dog aggression, particularly with dogs of the same sex. This is not a breed you can casually take to an off-leash dog park and expect to make friends. A poorly socialised Kerry will start confrontations. Even a well-socialised one may not back down if challenged.
Modern Australian breeders have worked hard to temper this trait through selective breeding. Many Kerry Blues raised with other dogs from puppyhood coexist perfectly well, and some even live happily alongside cats. But the prey drive is real — small animals that run will trigger a chase response. If you have chickens, rabbits, or guinea pigs in the backyard, this breed is a genuine risk.
This is a breed for experienced dog owners. First-time owners who want an easy, universally friendly dog should look elsewhere. But for someone who understands terrier temperament and is willing to invest in early socialisation and ongoing training, the Kerry Blue rewards that effort with a level of loyalty and personality that few breeds can match.
Kerries are natural watchdogs. They’ll alert you to visitors, unusual sounds, and anything they consider suspicious — which, being terriers, can include a surprising number of everyday objects. They’re not excessive barkers compared to some terrier breeds, but they will sound the alarm when it matters. Their size, muscular build, and confident demeanour make them a genuine visual deterrent, even if most Kerries would rather investigate a stranger than attack one.
Health & Genetic Conditions
The Kerry Blue Terrier is generally a robust breed, and Australian breeders have been particularly careful about health testing over the past few decades. Dogs Australia (formerly ANKC) notes that the most common health issue in Australian Kerries is ingrown hair cysts — a relatively minor concern. That said, there are some conditions every prospective owner should understand.
Prevalence: A breed-specific inherited neurological disorder caused by a mutation in the SERAC1 gene. Inherited as autosomal recessive — both parents must carry the gene for puppies to be affected. DNA testing has significantly reduced incidence in responsibly bred lines
Symptoms: Symptoms typically appear between 3 and 6 months of age and include head tremors, unsteady “goose-stepping” gait, poor balance, frequent falling, and abnormal eye movements. Affected puppies remain mentally alert but progressively lose coordination, leading to severe disability by 1–2 years of age
Treatment Cost (AUD): DNA test: $80–$150 per dog. There is no cure or treatment for PNA — affected puppies are typically humanely euthanised due to severely compromised quality of life
Prevention: DNA testing is the only prevention. A simple cheek swab test (CMSD/PNA) identifies carriers and affected dogs. Breeding two carriers together produces a 25% chance of affected puppies. Every reputable Australian Kerry Blue breeder tests for PNA before breeding. This disease is entirely preventable through testing
Prevalence: The Kerry Blue Terrier is a recognised breed for vWD Type 1. The condition is inherited as autosomal recessive, meaning dogs need two copies of the mutation to be clinically affected, though severity varies even among affected dogs
Symptoms: Easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, bleeding from the mouth when juvenile teeth are lost, prolonged bleeding after surgery or trauma, and in rare cases bleeding severe enough to be life-threatening. Many affected dogs show no obvious signs until surgery or injury occurs
Treatment Cost (AUD): DNA test: $80–$150. There is no cure, but the condition can be managed with awareness. Blood transfusions and clotting factors can be administered if excessive bleeding occurs during surgery
Prevention: DNA testing identifies carriers and affected dogs before breeding. Many vets recommend testing for vWD before any planned surgery, including routine desexing, because affected dogs may bleed excessively during procedures. Ask any prospective Kerry Blue breeder about vWD testing specifically
Prevalence: Moderate risk; the United States Kerry Blue Terrier Club requires hip evaluation (OFA or PennHIP) for CHIC certification of breeding dogs
Symptoms: Stiffness, reluctance to move or climb stairs, lameness in rear legs, difficulty rising after rest, bunny-hopping gait, and decreased activity levels
Treatment Cost (AUD): $1,500–$6,000 for surgical intervention; $500–$1,500 annually for conservative management including anti-inflammatory medications and joint supplements
Prevention: Maintain a lean body weight (the Kerry’s dense coat can hide extra kilos), avoid excessive high-impact exercise during growth, and only purchase from breeders who provide hip scores from parent dogs
Prevalence: Recognised in the Kerry Blue Terrier; ranges from mild (Grade 1) to severe (Grade 4)
Symptoms: Intermittent skipping or hopping on a hind leg, sudden yelping during movement, reluctance to jump, and an occasional “locking up” of the knee that resolves when the dog extends the leg
Treatment Cost (AUD): $1,500–$4,000 per knee for surgical correction; milder cases may be managed conservatively with weight management and physiotherapy
Prevention: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the knee joints, avoid repetitive jumping from heights during puppyhood, and ensure breeding dogs are examined for patellar luxation
Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of its normal groove in the femur. The condition is graded from 1 (mild, occasional slip) to 4 (severe, permanent displacement). In medium-sized breeds like the Kerry Blue, untreated patellar luxation can lead to secondary cruciate ligament tears. Surgical correction is typically recommended for Grade 2 and above, with most dogs returning to full function after recovery.
Prevalence: A rare congenital skin condition unique to Kerry Blue Terriers, seen mostly in intact males
Symptoms: Multiple hard, brittle, spiky hairs that are thicker and coarser than normal coat, typically appearing around the hock region. These abnormal hairs can cause discomfort and skin irritation. The condition may also be associated with correlating hair follicle tumours
Treatment Cost (AUD): $200–$500 per year for ongoing management including regular grooming, medicated shampoos, and veterinary monitoring
Prevention: There is no known way to prevent spiculosis as it is a congenital condition specific to the breed. Regular grooming and skin checks help identify and manage symptoms early. Desexing may reduce severity in some cases
Prevalence: Recognised in the Kerry Blue Terrier; a hereditary eyelid condition that can worsen with age
Symptoms: Squinting, holding the eye shut, excessive tearing, redness, mucoid discharge from the eye, and rubbing at the face. Usually diagnosed in puppies under one year of age but can develop or worsen in senior dogs
Treatment Cost (AUD): $500–$2,000 per eye for surgical correction; may require two procedures to avoid over-correction
Prevention: As entropion is hereditary, affected dogs should not be bred. Monitor your Kerry’s eyes regularly, especially during puppyhood and senior years, and seek veterinary attention promptly if you notice persistent squinting or tearing
Prevalence: Common in Kerry Blue Terriers; the breed is prone to an assortment of skin growths including sebaceous cysts, hair follicle tumours, and wart-like growths
Symptoms: Soft or firm lumps under the skin, often along the body and legs. Most are benign (non-cancerous) but new lumps should always be evaluated by a vet. Wart-like growths (viral papillomas) may appear on the lips, tongue, eyelids, or mouth with a light-coloured, cauliflower appearance
Treatment Cost (AUD): $300–$1,500 for surgical removal if needed; many benign cysts require no treatment unless they restrict movement or become infected
Prevention: There is no guaranteed way to prevent skin cysts, but regular skin checks during grooming sessions help catch growths early. Have any new lump examined by your vet using fine needle aspiration to confirm it is benign
Prevalence: Very common in Kerry Blue Terriers; the breed’s signature beard creates a warm, damp environment around the mouth that accelerates tartar build-up
Symptoms: Bad breath, visible tartar on teeth, red or inflamed gums, difficulty eating, loose or missing teeth, and drooling. Advanced dental disease can affect the health of internal organs
Treatment Cost (AUD): $400–$1,200 for a professional dental clean under anaesthesia; extractions of severely diseased teeth add to the cost
Prevention: Brush teeth 2–3 times weekly (daily is ideal) with a dog-specific toothpaste. Dental chews and diets help but do not replace brushing. Keep the beard clean and dry by rinsing after meals. Schedule professional dental cleans as recommended by your vet
Lifespan & Longevity
The Kerry Blue Terrier typically lives 12 to 15 years, with a 2024 UK study finding a median lifespan of 12.4 years for the breed. That’s solid for a medium-sized terrier and means you’re committing to well over a decade with this dog — a decade of grooming appointments, training sessions, and a companion that will outlast most of your other relationships.
Puppy Stage (0–12 months)
Kerry puppies are born jet black. Over the first 12 to 18 months, the coat gradually transitions through shades of dark grey, sometimes passing through a rusty brown phase around 5–12 months that alarms new owners who expected blue. This is completely normal. The final blue colour may not fully settle until the dog is two years old. During this stage, focus on socialisation above all else — exposure to other dogs, people, sounds, and environments. This is the single most important investment you’ll make with a Kerry Blue.
Adult Years (2–10 years)
In their prime, Kerries are athletic, muscular, and full of energy. Maintain regular exercise, keep up with grooming every 6–8 weeks, and watch their weight — the dense coat can hide extra kilos. Annual vet checks should include dental assessment, given the breed’s tendency toward tartar build-up under the beard. Ongoing training keeps their sharp mind engaged and their terrier impulses managed.
Senior Years (10+ years)
Older Kerries typically remain active longer than many breeds, but watch for joint stiffness, vision changes (entropion can worsen with age), and skin lumps that should be checked by your vet. Twice-yearly health checks become essential. Their loyalty and affection only deepen with age — a senior Kerry Blue is a remarkably devoted companion.
Grooming & Care
The Kerry Blue Terrier’s coat is both its greatest feature and its biggest maintenance commitment. It doesn’t shed, which is wonderful for allergy sufferers and people who hate vacuuming. But because the coat grows continuously, it needs regular trimming, brushing, and professional grooming to prevent matting and maintain that distinctive Kerry silhouette.
Grooming Schedule
| Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Full Body Clip/Trim | Every 6–8 weeks | Scissors on body; clippers for head, neck, abdomen. Professional or learn at home. |
| Brushing | At least twice weekly; daily is ideal | Slicker brush + metal comb. Prevents mats in the soft, wavy coat. |
| Beard Washing | After every meal (or at least daily) | The beard traps food, water, and debris. Rinse and towel dry to prevent staining and odour. |
| Bathing | Every 4–6 weeks | Use a quality dog shampoo. Condition to maintain coat softness. |
| Nail Trimming | Every 2–3 weeks | Dark nails — trim small amounts. Active dogs on hard surfaces may need less. |
| Ear Checks | Weekly | V-shaped folded ears trap moisture. Check for wax, odour, or redness. |
| Dental Care | Brush 2–3 times weekly | Critical — the beard creates a warm, damp environment around the mouth that accelerates tartar. |
The Kerry Blue Haircut: Show Trim vs Pet Trim
The traditional Kerry Blue show trim is distinctive — a clean head and neck blending into a longer, shaped body coat with the signature beard and eyebrows left full. It’s a skilled trim that takes groomers years to perfect. Most pet owners opt for a simpler version: a shorter all-over clip with the beard and eyebrows tidied but not fully sculpted. Some owners prefer the Kerry Blue short hair look — essentially a close clip all over — which drastically reduces grooming time.
Kerry Blue without beard? Some owners choose to clip the beard short or remove it entirely for easier maintenance. It changes the dog’s silhouette dramatically and is a matter of personal preference, not a health concern. An ungroomed Kerry Blue with a full, unsculpted coat looks like an entirely different dog — charming in a wild, unkempt way, but it does mat quickly.
Exercise Needs
The Kerry Blue Terrier is an athletic, muscular breed that was built to work all day on an Irish farm. In a suburban Australian setting, that translates to at least 60 minutes of daily exercise — and more is better. This isn’t a dog that’ll be happy with a gentle stroll around the block.
Two walks of 30 minutes each, combined with active play like fetch, tug, or a training session, is a good baseline. Kerries also excel at canine sports: agility, obedience, earthdog trials, and even dock diving. These activities channel their high energy and sharp intelligence into something productive rather than destructive.
In Australian summers, exercise in the early morning or late evening. The Kerry’s dark coat absorbs heat, and while they handle warmth better than heavily double-coated breeds like Huskies, they can still overheat. Always carry water and watch for heavy panting or slowing down.
Fencing matters. Kerries are agile and determined. A standard 1.2-metre fence may not be enough for a motivated Kerry Blue. Secure, 1.5-metre-plus fencing is recommended. Check for gaps, too — these dogs were bred to pursue vermin through tight spaces, and they’ll find any weak point in your perimeter.
Off-leash caution: Given the breed’s dog-aggression potential and prey drive, off-leash exercise should only happen in securely fenced areas where you control the environment. Open dog parks are generally not recommended for Kerry Blue Terriers.
Training Guide
Kerry Blue Terriers are smart — genuinely, impressively smart. They learn commands quickly, remember patterns, and can solve problems that stump other breeds. The challenge isn’t intelligence; it’s compliance. A Kerry knows exactly what you’re asking. Whether it decides to comply is another matter entirely.
Socialisation & Training Timeline
| Age | Focus | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| 8–16 weeks | Socialisation, bite inhibition, crate training | Critical period. Expose to other dogs (controlled settings), varied people, surfaces, sounds. Puppy school is essential for this breed. |
| 4–6 months | Basic commands, leash manners, impulse control | Strong-willed phase begins. Short, engaging sessions (5–10 min). Use high-value treats. Avoid repetition — Kerries get bored. |
| 6–12 months | Dog-dog socialisation, recall, “leave it” | Adolescent testing. Dog-reactive behaviour may emerge. Professional terrier-experienced trainer highly recommended. |
| 12–24 months | Advanced obedience, canine sports, reliable recall | Maturity brings more focus but stubbornness remains. Positive methods only — harsh corrections backfire badly. |
| 2+ years | Maintenance, enrichment, continued socialisation | A well-trained adult Kerry is a joy. Continue exposing to controlled social situations to prevent regression. |
Positive reinforcement is the only method that works reliably with Kerry Blue Terriers. They are sensitive beneath that tough exterior, and punitive training will either shut them down or make them more defiant. Use food, play, and verbal praise. Keep sessions varied — Kerries lose interest in repetitive drills faster than almost any other breed.
Terrier-experienced trainers: If you’re struggling with your Kerry’s behaviour, seek out a trainer who specifically has experience with terrier breeds. A method that works for a Labrador or Border Collie may fail spectacularly with a Kerry Blue. The breed’s independent thinking requires a nuanced approach.
Cost of Ownership in Australia
| Expense | Estimated AUD Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy (ANKC registered breeder) | $2,500–$5,000 | Show prospects at upper end. Pet-quality lower. Expect a waitlist. |
| Annual Food | $800–$1,500 | Premium dry + fresh food. Omega-3 supplements recommended for coat. |
| Professional Grooming | $100–$180 per session | Every 6–8 weeks. Budget $800–$1,400/year if not grooming at home. |
| Annual Vet (routine) | $400–$800 | Vaccinations, check-ups, parasite prevention, dental check. |
| Pet Insurance | $50–$110/month | Cover early for genetic conditions. Check vWD and joint exclusions. |
| Grooming Tools (one-off) | $200–$500 | Slicker brush, metal comb, thinning shears, clippers. Learn to groom at home to save. |
| Training / Obedience | $300–$800 | Puppy school + ongoing obedience classes. Terrier-specialist trainer adds cost but is worth it. |
| First-Year Total (estimated) | $5,000–$9,000+ | Including puppy purchase, setup, grooming equipment, and first-year care. |
Where to Find a Kerry Blue Terrier in Australia
The Kerry Blue Terrier breeding community in Australia is small but passionate. Reputable ANKC-registered breeders include Olizure Kerry Blue Terriers (QLD, breeding since 1992), Regenstauf (QLD), DanuClaire (NSW/VIC), Tasshot (TAS), Balkanablu (VIC), and Ariahgrove. All test for vWD1, FXI, DM, and CMSD/PNA before breeding.
Waitlists of 6 to 12 months are standard. Because the breed is uncommon, you may need to look interstate and arrange puppy transport. Every Australian Kerry Blue breeder on the Dogz Online registry emphasises that Kerries are not suitable for all homes — expect questions about your experience, lifestyle, and fencing before being approved.
Kerry Blue Terrier Rescue
Rescue Kerry Blues are rare in Australia because breeders typically take back dogs that can’t stay in their original homes. Occasionally, young adults are returned due to lifestyle changes or the owner underestimating the breed’s needs. Contact breed-specific groups and the breeders listed above to enquire about rehoming opportunities. Adoption fees are typically lower than puppy prices but vary.
Is This Breed Right for You?
- Have experience with terrier breeds (or strong-willed dogs) and understand the commitment involved in managing an independent thinker.
- Want a hypoallergenic, non-shedding dog and are willing to invest in regular professional grooming or learn to groom at home.
- Are an active person or family who can provide at least 60 minutes of daily exercise plus mental stimulation.
- Want a loyal guard dog and family companion rolled into one — a dog that’ll play with the kids and watch the front door.
- Have secure fencing (1.5 metres minimum) and are prepared for on-leash walks in public spaces.
- Are a first-time dog owner. The Kerry Blue’s strong will and dog-aggression potential require experienced handling.
- Want a dog-park dog. Kerries are not reliably friendly with unfamiliar dogs, especially same-sex dogs.
- Have small pets (rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens) without secure separation. The prey drive is strong.
- Don’t want to spend time or money on regular grooming. A neglected Kerry coat mats quickly and causes skin problems.
- Want a low-maintenance, easygoing companion. The Kerry Blue demands engagement, training, and time.
Both are large terriers with non-shedding coats, but the Airedale is noticeably bigger (23–24 inches vs 18–19 inches) and generally less dog-aggressive. The Airedale is often described as the “King of Terriers” for its size, while the Kerry Blue packs similar intensity into a more compact frame. If size and lower inter-dog aggression matter, the Airedale may be the better choice. If you want a slightly more manageable size with an equally bold temperament, the Kerry Blue wins.
The Giant Schnauzer is significantly larger (60–70 cm vs 46–48 cm) and was bred for driving cattle and guarding. Both breeds share non-shedding coats and grooming intensity, but the Giant Schnauzer requires more space and exercise. The Kerry Blue is a more practical size for suburban Australian homes while still offering the same working-dog intelligence and protective instinct.
These two breeds are the closest comparison in size and temperament. Both are medium-sized, non-shedding, intelligent, and strong-willed. The Kerry Blue tends to be more dog-aggressive and has higher grooming requirements due to the softer coat texture. The Standard Schnauzer’s wiry coat is lower maintenance. Personality-wise, the Kerry Blue is often described as more playful and clownish, while the Schnauzer is more serious and reserved.
- The Kerry Blue Terrier is a striking, hypoallergenic, fiercely loyal dog with a personality as bold as its blue coat — but it’s not for everyone.
- This breed demands experienced handling, consistent training, early socialisation, and a commitment to regular grooming. In return, it offers unshakeable loyalty, a genuine sense of humour, and a companion that will protect your family and keep you entertained for 12 to 15 years.
- With DNA-tested parents from a reputable Australian breeder and a realistic understanding of the breed’s terrier temperament, a Kerry Blue Terrier can be one of the most rewarding dogs you’ll ever own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Kerry Blue Terriers hypoallergenic?
Yes. The Kerry Blue Terrier has a non-shedding coat that produces less dander than most breeds. No dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic, but the Kerry Blue is one of the best options for allergy sufferers. The coat grows continuously and requires regular trimming, similar to a Poodle.
Do Kerry Blue Terriers shed?
No. Their soft, wavy coat does not shed. Dead hair stays in the coat until brushed out, which is why regular brushing and grooming appointments are essential. You won’t find Kerry hair on your furniture, but you will need to invest in grooming.
Are Kerry Blue Terriers aggressive?
Kerry Blues can be dog-aggressive, particularly with same-sex dogs. This is a breed trait, not a training failure. With proper socialisation from puppyhood and experienced handling, the tendency can be managed but not eliminated entirely. They are typically affectionate and gentle with their family, including children.
Are Kerry Blue Terriers good family dogs?
Yes, for the right family. They are devoted to their people, playful with children, and protective of the household. However, they require experienced ownership, consistent training, and supervision around other dogs and small animals. They are not recommended for first-time dog owners.
How much does a Kerry Blue Terrier cost in Australia?
Expect to pay $2,500 to $5,000 from an ANKC-registered breeder. Show-quality puppies with full registration sit at the upper end. The first year of ownership, including puppy purchase and setup costs, typically runs $5,000 to $9,000.
What does an ungroomed Kerry Blue Terrier look like?
An ungroomed Kerry Blue has a long, shaggy coat that obscures the dog’s muscular shape. The beard grows long and unkempt, and the body coat can mat without regular brushing. It’s a dramatically different look from the sculpted show trim, and while some owners find it charming, neglecting grooming causes skin issues.
Is there a miniature Kerry Blue Terrier?
No. There is no recognised miniature version of the Kerry Blue Terrier. The breed comes in one size: males 46–48 cm, females 44–46 cm. Ads for “mini Kerry Blues” typically refer to Kerry Blue crosses, not purebreds. If small size is important to you, consider a related breed like the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.
Why are Kerry Blue Terriers born black?
All Kerry Blue Terrier puppies are born with a solid black coat. The blue colour develops gradually over the first 18 to 24 months as a result of a progressive greying gene. During the transition, the coat may pass through dark grey, rusty brown, and silver phases before settling into its final blue shade.
1. Dogs Australia – Kerry Blue Terrier Breed Standard
2. Dogs Victoria – Kerry Blue Terrier Breed Information
3. Dogs Queensland – Kerry Blue Terrier
4. PetMD – Kerry Blue Terrier Health and Care
5. AKC – Kerry Blue Terrier Dog Breed Information
6. WebMD Pets – What to Know About Kerry Blue Terriers
7. Dogz Online – Kerry Blue Terrier Breeders Australia