Kerry Blue Terrier
Lively, intelligent, and loyal, this breed thrives on companionship and activity. Famous for its soft blue coat and spirited personality, it makes a devoted family pet.
Breed Characteristics
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.
HEIGHT
46–49 cm (male)
44–48 cm (female)
WEIGHT
15–18 kg (male)
13–16 kg (female)
LIFE EXPECTANCY
12–15 years
Kerry Blue Terrier: Breed snapshot
Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance
Key Breed Characteristics
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Species
Canis lupus familiaris
Diet
Omnivore
"A Kerry Blue Terrier isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."
Temperament & personality
Understanding Kerry Blue Terrier's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.
Personality Overview
The Kerry Blue Terrier is known for being alert, spirited, and affectionate with family, yet can be reserved or assertive with strangers and other animals.
Key Personality Traits
Generally sociable, can be reserved with strangers
Quick learner, responds well to training
Active breed requiring daily exercise
Enjoys interactive games and activities
Adjusts moderately well to new situations
Strengths
- Loyal to family members
- Intelligent and quick to learn
- Low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat
- Agile and athletic build
- Strong watchdog instincts
Challenges
- Prone to stubbornness during training
- Needs regular, skilled grooming
- May be aggressive toward other dogs
- High exercise and mental stimulation needs
- Can develop separation anxiety if left alone
Protect your Kerry Blue Terrier
Kerry Blue Terrier are active and energetic, but they can develop hip dysplasia and eye disorders. Get peace of mind with PetSecur's comprehensive coverage.
Intelligence & exercise needs
Kerry Blue Terriers are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
🧠 Intelligence & training
Trainability
Learns with consistency
Overall rating
This breed is highly intelligent and quick to learn, but can be independent-minded, requiring consistent, positive training methods and early socialization for best results.
Trainable Tasks:
🏃 Exercise & energy levels
Daily Exercise
60–90 minutes daily
recommended per day
Kerry Blue Terriers have high exercise needs and enjoy both physical activity and mental stimulation, benefiting from daily walks, play, and tasks that engage their problem-solving skills.
Recommended Activities:
Is this breed right for you?
Kerry Blue Terriers are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Kerry Blue Terrier would fit well in your home.
First-time Owner
Needs firm, consistent training and early socialization to thrive with new owners
Apartment Living
Adapts well to apartments if exercised daily and mentally stimulated
Active Lifestyle
Thrives in active homes and enjoys regular play and exercise
Kids
Can be playful but may be too rambunctious for very young children
Multiple Pets
May be territorial and less tolerant of other pets without early socialization
Being Left Alone
Dislikes being left alone and may develop separation anxiety or destructive behaviors
Breed comparisons
Wondering how Kerry Blue Terriers compare to other popular breeds? Check out our detailed comparison pages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kerry Blue Terrier
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about this breed
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